Nervous of my own challenge - reduce or stop spending!

Caterina

ginnyknit wrote: »

:rotfl::rotfl::rotfl:So are we starting the 'Urge to Splurge" support network. Like the computers on cars that tell you to move away from them - " back away from that ready meal, back away from that ready meal - you know you can make better" sounds in your mind whenever temptation strikes!

You can count me in on that support network! Goodness knows I need it.:eek: Can a similar recording be put in the phone when I dial the local Indian takeaway number?

katieclampet

I can sympathise about the "need" to splurge, although I do only spend a few pounds if I do. (As you can see from my challenge, it is quite often a boots splurge!!) However I tend to buy things for my gkids, that satisifes my need to spend and also helps out my 2dd.

I also try and avoid actually going shopping, that keeps me out of temptation. I have also filled my online basket with bargains, got to checkout and signed off. Strangely satisfying!!

Luckily I am frugal by nature and like to save my cash for the more important things in life!:)

katiex

Penelope_Penguin

We have two threads running on trying to reduce spending, so I'll join them together now

Penny. x

artichoke

laural 7172

dont buy nut trees now - depending on exactly where about's you are (presumably in the uk) it is too late in the year to plant trees...

you can plant soft fruit bushes now but not trees

you don't want to buy expensive trees and then loose them through planting to late

but i agree that planting nut trees is a wonderful investment..

art

zarazara

I moved jobs earlier this year and we now have more income. We live frugally because we have to,we are still low paid. Me and DH earn a bit above the minimum wage,son earns minimum wage,lives at home and pays 1/3 of food bills and utilities,so he pays his way. The problem is that we now can afford to do some things we've needed and wanted to do for ages. ie necessary household repairs and decorating and getting a cheap wardrobe so me and DH dont have to share. I'm really pleased :j but I now find myself indulging in a few "extras" I've bought a book instead of going to the library and treated myself to some much longed for DVDs. DH has had a couple of small things.
I am putting away £100 a month [ first savings in 20 years!] :eek:but really need to save more for our old age. Please, I could do with some words of encouragement to not spend. We dont do holidays and go out rarely so thats not a problem. I'd really like a few things for the house and garden to pretty it up, and then some decent clothes for me [next year see my clothes challenge in sig.] Please help me save and not spend.:(

Jacey53

I think you are doing wonderfully already. :A
You have obviously been focussed on what is important to you and have made marvellous progress.
This is just a reaction to having a bit of spare money - think of it as a bit of a treat and don't beat yourself up about it, then you can get back on the path you have been following.
You know what you want and how you are going to get there - so you will.

I wish I was more like you - I waste loads of money even now.:(

ubamother

Congratulations - you've clearly worked very hard at getting to a 'safer' place.

I would offer three suggestions -
1. set each of you a simple 'treat' budget per week/month. Enough to buy a book, or some really nice steak - whatever it is that is a treat for you. If you can live OK, and make your monthly savings I personally would say you have absolutely earned your 'treat'.
2. save the extra separately towards something very specific that will save you money in the long term e.g. thicker curtains/insulation to save on next winter's fuel bill, a large A rated freezer for your home made frugal soups. Good strong shoes/clothes that will last way longer than cheapies. That way you're buying something of good quality that is long lasting and frugal too. And when you've reached the goal of getting it, you can start again!
or
3. panic fund saving - separate from your main savings - start working towards a 'washing machine just broke/car needs loads of work/kitchen ceiling caved in' type saving fund for emergencies. That way your long term monthly savings keep growing and you don't face the misery of watching a big chunk of them disappear into an emergency replacement or repair.

Butterfly_Brain

There is nothing wrong in treating yourself now and then
But always try and save a little each month in seperate accounts, I have two accounts one is for savings and one is for must do jobs and emergencies

hermum

ubamother, exactly what I was going to say.
You sound as though you are doing really well, don't beat yourself up over buying a book. Saving £100 a month is a healthy amount.
Are you a member of your local freecycle group? If so ask for some bits & pieces that you would like.
I absolutely love Freecycle, just over this week I've gifted exercise equipment, lots of garden plants, grill, cooker, clothes, books. Received, a wing back armchair, this is going to be my first reupholstery project. Tiles & the grout, a roll of new lino, raspberry canes & found a friend.
Do remember to take some time to enjoy today rather than fretting about tomorrow.
Another idea, invite friends for a swapping party, no, not keys in the fruit bowl or however it goes. Everyone has to bring a plate of food, something to drink & a couple of things that they no longer need. you all have a nice evening for very little cost & something new.

Penelope_Penguin

zarazara wrote: »

Please help me save and not spend.:(

Work out your budget, and before you spend anything put the surplus into a savings account. That way you won't be tempted to spend it

I'll add this to the existing thread to give you more ideas.

Penny. x