Embracing the Firehorse…..

Little_Ms_Determined

This year apparently is the year of the Firehorse - a year of bold, fast paced change, drive and ambition.

I’ve never really paid much attention to Chinese new year etc, but as the year has gained momentum, I’ve realised that this really is my “Firehorse” year.

The day after Chinese New Year I had my first interview in 20 years for a job that sounded ideal for me and was offered it straight away. It has meant returning to full time work for the first time since my son was born but was always planning to do so once he started secondary school next year. It was too good to turn down for the sake of the timing being 12 months out.

The other big changes happening is work has finally commenced on the house after an almost 2 year battle with the insurance company. It means that the house can finally start feeling like a home again rather than a shell. This has affected my mental health massively. Whilst it a PITA at the minute, the peace of mind it will bring when done will be immense.

Which brings me on to the money side of things. I have credit card debt that whilst I’m paying off a decent chunk each month, I’m haven’t consistently made a dent in it overall. My full time employment in theory means there is an extra £1k a month to chuck at it, but due to the issues around the house and scheduled work that we need it to pay for (bad workmanship that has caused leaks and damage 😡) we’re unlikely to see the financial benefit this year. So the first part of this diary will be around keeping our heads above water until the end of the year, the second part will then be focussed on clearing the debt and getting it gone forever.

I can’t promise this will be the most entertaining diary, but I am hoping it will keep me accountable on my journey.

Sardine82

Good luck :)

Little_Ms_Determined

Morning,

I sat yesterday and pulled together a spreadsheet for everything we need to pay for until the end of the year. It makes for depressing reading but at least I know where we stand now and can see a road through. I’ve set up savings pots with targets for each to try and help keep me on track.

Switched our utilities last night as our current tariffs are coming to an end and not overly enamoured with the way our current provider do things (they want you to come out of winter a full month ahead). The positive in that is though the that I should be getting £200ish refund (which will be allocated straight to pay the recent vet bill when it comes through 🙄)

Today’s plan of action:

1. Walk dog
2. 2 x loads of washing
3. Clear utility room
4. Wipe down bathroom

Little_Ms_Determined

Morning,

I’ve been missing in action for a couple of weeks. Had a week at the seaside which was amazing (would love to retire there!) and now back to reality!
Realistically, very little movement will be made financially over the next couple of months - BUT there is still so much I need to work on. Getting debt free is just part of it, I feel my whole life is reaching a turning point. Sounds dramatic I know but it’s dawning on me that I’ve probably got more years behind me than in front of me know and I need to start making the most of them, and getting my health to a point where I’m able to make the most of it! At the minute I feel life is passing me by and I’m a slave to the the hustle of paying off the debt and getting on top of things around the house. I desperately need to slow down and simplify things so that I can concentrate on what I want to do rather than what I need to do all the time!

I love running and exercise but seem to have precious little time or energy. I have 2.5 - 3 stone to lose. I’ve lost a stone so far but need to keep up momentum- can feel bad habits creeping in!

My house is in chaos - too much stuff. Need to getting listing on Vinted etc - Declutter = space + extra money 😊. I need to get organised but it just feels very overwhelming at the moment especially with school holidays in full swing!

Right best get the dog walked and kickstart the day!

Dakota_Rose

I’ve been having similar feelings recently - definitely a midlife and mid-summer experience I think. I’ve bought a walking pad as I keep thinking if I don’t make a change soon, it’ll be much harder work to get my fitness back and weight off. I want to be healthy enough to enjoy my later years, which are coming around far too quickly. This doesn’t help with the clutter or financial situation though!

I’ve also been on a holiday that’s got me dreaming of (for me, unrealistic) retirement plans. I feel very frustrated as a result. I want to be achieving more than I am able to.

But, I am decluttering well. Sorting out lots for listing and a car boot sale. Every little helps.

Starting the day with a dog walk is a good idea 😊. All these small positive actions will add up x

ArtyJ931

I got ChatGPT to organise me an “ideal for my age” fitness schedule that fit into all my demands and I then added it to my diary so I was doing something every day (I walk the dogs daily but it doesn’t count at the pace we go (tiny yorkie is one of the dogs).

On days I’m busy and work late at work (same days most weeks) I’ve deliberately put in for eg a 10 minute online yoga, weekends or days I know I can squeeze in something longer those are in.

just an idea - it’s so tricky but so important for mental health too to get the exercise

Sardine82

I feel you - I too go through periods of being overwhelmed. But don't punish yourself too much, remember you are doing great.

The seaside is lovely - I couldn't imagine not living near the sea. I have been for a swim every day this week.