The No-Spend Challenge: A Valuable Lesson in Frugality
As the calendar flips to December, I’m reflecting on my recent #NoSpendNovember challenge. This wasn’t my first attempt, and I was determined to beat my previous year’s record of $21 spent. Unfortunately, I fell short, racking up a total of $88 in expenses. But before you think I failed, let me tell you – it was still a successful experiment.
Cutting Back on Unnecessary Expenses
One of my biggest victories was avoiding coffee shops and bars. I didn’t buy a single cup of coffee or drink out for the entire 30 days. I also didn’t become a financial burden on my boyfriend, which was crucial to me. We found alternative ways to have fun, like building forts, visiting public parks, and up-cycling household items into crafts.
Spending on Others, Not Myself
While I did spend money on friends, which might be considered a “slip-up,” I was happy to have spent $56 of my $88 on others. Treating friends on a bad day or showing appreciation through tips is important to me. It’s a good use of my money, and I wouldn’t change that.
One Necessary Purchase
The one purchase I made for myself was a $32 pair of pants, which brought my total to $88. I forgot my pants at the gym and had to buy a new pair for work. It was a necessary expense, but I did skip the belt!
The Bigger Picture
This challenge wasn’t just about saving money; it was also about reaching my savings goal of buying a house/condo by my 26th birthday. Watching my savings account grow was incredibly motivating, and I’m one step closer to achieving my dream.
Takeaways from the Challenge
If you’re considering a 30-day no-spend challenge, here are some valuable lessons I learned:
- CousCous is a lifesaver: Having versatile and filling food on hand is crucial when you’re trying not to shop.
- Good friends will respect your challenge: They’ll avoid tempting situations and help you stay on track.
- Stock up on frozen fruit and veggies: It’s tough to eat healthy when fresh produce isn’t an option.
- Home workouts are doable: You can still stay active without spending money on gym classes or studios.
- Karaoke is free at home: Trust me, it’s a valuable lesson!
I’ll be continuing the challenge next year, and I’d love for you to join me. You never know what you’re capable of until you try.
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