NST September 2021

mothernerd

Ninja Savings Turtles

SEPTEMBER CHALLENGE
Welcome to the NST September challenge. Each month the turtles get together to support encourage and sympathise with each other as we face our individual battles to get out of debt or save for the life we want (mortgage free, early retirement, just getting by on a modest income ) whilst having fun and living our best possible life.

Seasons of mellow fruitfulness are upon us. Make the most of any sunny days that come your way but enjoy the highlights of the coming months - leaves changing colour and falling, the nip in the air, bonfire smoke, hot soup or chocolate on a cold day.

Exercise should celebrate all the things your body can do, even if it's only lying on the bed and stretching like a cat. Exercise is not a punishment for you or your body for imagined 'sins'. Keep moving (put some music on and dance). Do something each day, even if it's only for 10 minutes. For those who are already fit, I prescribe 3 times a week for 30 minutes.

Planning ahead is essential. Think about the next month (birthdays, events, any and all financial/ social obligations - paying the milk man, kids clubs, annual insurance due) but also about the final third of the year (even that day we do not mention). Planning ahead can save you time and money and means less stress or last minute panic. Having spare birthday cards in the house and a couple of presents for when your child receives a late party invitation (or has had the invite in the bottom of their bag for a week) is just a small example. If you need or want to cut back, the earlier you let people know the better. 

Traditionally September was the month for signing up classes (GCSEs to masters but also what used to be known as evening classes). Some of those may be thin on the ground but consider learning something new or taking up an old pastime (knitting or sewing in front of the fire is very cosy, cheap fashion means it isn't the money saver it once was but being able to make basic repairs to your clothes will save you pounds). It is also the time for Harvest Festivals so if you have been growing your own or enjoy foraging, think about how to use your produce (or other people's gluts) and add a little bit of summer to the depths of winter. You could also collect (leaves, nuts and berries) whilst out walking to use in hm crafts (cards, decorations, gifts).

Embrace the concept of 'getting there slowly'. Progress is progress, no matter how slowly you go (some of us don't have a choice). If all areas of your life are progressing satisfactorily, then carry on. But if things are getting a bit too much or success in some areas is offset by barrenness elsewhere (your life is out of balance) it may help to stop, take a step backwards before carrying on. Some of us can only do things in small stages, but we will still get there in the end. If life is too busy (and often in this situation we can't think, but just plough on blindly) you may be hiding from a problem that needs addressing.

Mental health and meal planning. Mental health is often thought of as being separate from the physical but they are intertwined. Headaches and many aches and pains reflect tension in your body (grinding your teeth, hunching your shoulders) and are signs that all is not well. I need to lose weight but will concentrate on eating healthy food in particular to support my immune system. Meal planning helps you make the most of the food you have in (eating from the cupboards), reduces expenditure because you only buy the things you need to complete your meals and if you set out a healthy menu and go shopping for the things you need, again you save time and money (eliminate that 'what can we eat tonight' syndrome) and avoid temptation.

Budgets should be set before the start of the month (please try to stick with them). A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went. Aim for 10 No Spend Days (low target) or 20 NSDs (high target). Purchases of fuel/ travel pass/ medicines (including hospital car park fees) or reduced price sticker items only (no food purchased at full price) will not lose you a NSD (fuel etc must come from within your preset budgets). Money for small weekly payments (dance classes, sporting activities, scouts, window cleaner etc) can be set aside at the beginning of the month so you do not lose NSDs.

Extend a hand to those who are struggling. Food banks and many other charities are still struggling, do what you can. If funds are in short supply, a simple smile, a listening ear, an offer of help with a particular task are all helpful. Do not be afraid to ask others to help if you need it (many of us find this difficult).

Reassess your goals and habits. If you consistently fail to reach your targets, make them more manageable (you can always exceed your target). If things aren't working find another way of doing things/ look at it from a different angle, find an alternative route to where you want to be. Make small positive changes consistently (you are more likely to stick with them and succeed).

The challenge runs throughout September.

mothernerd

Reserved for contenders
1   mothernerd
2   f0xh0les
3   apple-muncher
4   greent
5   Buffythedebtslayer
6   loopylupin
7   shabbychic12
8   Kerry-Woman
9   thriftylass
10  Deni-debt-free-dreamer
11  crazycatlady
12  Idee2111
13  Thrifty_Taylor
14  Calling14
15  CEW
16  ditty1234
17  Icc86
18  Elisheba
19  DrCarrie
20  cybertortoise
21  Shrewbie

f0xh0les

me please mothernerd!

apple_muncher

I'm in! Thank you!

I'm all for setting lower targets and then exceeding them, especially when the high targets are just too far/too hard/too unimaginable..?😎

greent

Me please!! Thank you

Buffythedebtslayer

I am in please xxx

loopylupin

I’ve been reading along for a while, and I’m so inspired with the comments, ideas and supportive space this is. Thank you to you all for inspiring me start my journey of being debt free by picking nsd amounts each month and reading along with you all. Bring on September! Keep safe, healthy and frugal ❤️ 

shabbychic12

Me please xx

Kerry_Woman

Can you add me to the list.  Thanks.

thriftylass

Can I join please. Really missed this and looking fwd to it 

Thanks

Deni_debt-free_dreamer

I'd like to join please mothernerd 
Deni x