She Strengthens

Taking Control of My Finances: A Journey of Hyperawareness

As I navigate the whirlwind of my life, I’ve come to realize that financial control is crucial to avoiding chaos. With a slew of upcoming expenses, I’m taking drastic measures to regain control over my finances.

A Month of Unprecedented Spending

In the next 30 days, I’ll be shelling out more money than I ever have in my life. It’s a daunting prospect, but I’m determined to stay on top of my expenses. The month has already begun, and so far, I’ve accumulated a slew of costs. My boyfriend, Drew, and I recently adopted a French bulldog named Gaston, who has quickly become the love of my life – but also a significant expense. Between vet bills, supplies, and upcoming vaccinations, our furry friend is already putting a dent in our wallets.

The Added Stress of Moving

To make matters worse, we’re moving into a new apartment on Memorial Day weekend, which is rapidly approaching. The initial move-in costs will be around $2500, not counting the additional expenses for new furniture and essentials. With our current apartment still only a quarter packed, we may need to enlist paid help to get everything sorted. To complicate matters further, I’ve temporarily moved into my parents’ house to care for Gaston while our apartment gets ready, which means I’m living out of a duffel bag and relying on takeout more often than I’d like.

The Importance of Financial Mindfulness

This perfect storm of expenses has forced me to confront my financial habits. I’ve always struggled with money mindfulness, oscillating between paying too much attention and not enough. To regain control, I’ve decided to start tracking every single expense, no matter how small, for the next few weeks. This “money journaling” practice will help me stay aware of where my money is going and prioritize my spending.

A New Approach to Money Management

I’ve never tried this approach before, but I’m willing to do whatever it takes to develop healthier financial habits. By writing down every expense, I’ll be able to identify areas where I can cut back and make more intentional purchasing decisions. It’s not about depriving myself, but about being mindful of my money and making it work for me.

The Road Ahead

I’m not sure how this experiment will pan out, but I’m committed to seeing it through. In a few weeks, I’ll update on my progress and share any insights I’ve gained. Wish me luck!