Building a Better Future

Prodigal50

Hello everyone

I'm posting this new thread to track my journey to being debt free by the end of 2026 and living with a more content attitude.

My main goals:
Chip away at my debts without adding to them
Control my impulsive spending 
Cut down on costs
Be happy with what I have

I struggle with my moods a bit and probably have some undiagnosed behavioural issues. Through this diary I hope to be more self controlled and find a more settled and relaxed debt free  life  :-)

joedenise

Didn't want to read and run.  Well done on taking the first step to sorting out your debt.

It might be helpful to post your SOA so that people can make suggestions as to where you might be able to cut back to help clear the debt more quickly.

Bluegreen143

I really like your goals. I think the bit about being content with what you have is so important - something I know I can struggle with.

Agree that it’s worth posting a SOA or budget of some kind and getting advice on it. 

Prodigal50

Thanks for commenting :-)

I have a really good handle on our costs and have everything itemised on spreadsheets. 

Budget wise we are pretty good I think. I have an achievable budget that should have us clear of debt by end 2025.

The big problem is keeping to it! :-)

Our house is full of clutter and stuff. Amazon probably have a driver assigned just to our number! 

The problem we have is behavioural. Takeaways 3+ times per week.. Unnecessary spending. Coffees and slushies. Throwing out food that doesn't get used. 

We have the income and the targets.

 It's changing our lifestyle that's hard. 

Truthfully changing my habits is the biggest thing. If we can get control of our spending we will be fine.

My wife is onboard with a lifestyle change too. We just need to work on changing our habits in the new year.

Sarahwithlove

I'd suggest looking at what's causing you to buy takeaways is it the food your choosing? Do you not fancy the meal? Could you batch cooking ahead? Remove any takeaway apps, numbers etc to make it harder to order. 

Prodigal50

The last couple of months have flown by and the debt hasn't decreased much.

Let's try again

I can't believe I find it so hard to stop online shopping. Every time I have a moment I start looking at new things to buy that I don't need at all.

I was listening to Erin Skye Kelly today and she was talking about the emotions that we have around money and it really resonated with me. I associate happiness with buying nice things for myself. 

I'm going to have to find a way of living that doesn't revolve around spending.