She Strengthens

Taking Control of My Finances: A Journey of Self-Discovery

As I embark on a month of significant expenses, I’ve decided to take a proactive approach to managing my finances by keeping a money journal. Alongside my food journaling, this new habit has already revealed some interesting patterns and insights.

The Irony of Investing in a Journal

My first entry in my money journal was, ironically, a purchase of a journal itself. With no notebooks or paper available due to my upcoming move, I had to spend $4 on a journal to record my expenses. This initial investment has already paid off, as I’ve combined my food and money journals into one, splitting the pages to track both aspects of my daily life.

The Correlation Between Unhealthy Eating and Spending

After just a week of journaling, I’ve noticed a striking connection between my food choices and spending habits. On days when I opt for unhealthy foods, I tend to spend more money. This is likely due to the fact that I’m more likely to splurge on unnecessary items when I’ve already made an unhealthy food choice.

The Impact of Illness on Financial Decisions

Being sick has a significant impact on my financial decisions. When I’m not feeling well, I tend to adopt a “treat yourself” mentality, which can lead to poor financial choices. Recently, I spent $5 on a box of Golden Grahams while under the weather, a decision I later regretted.

The Challenges of Being Out of Place

My upcoming move has brought its own set of financial challenges. With my belongings packed away, I’ve had to purchase essentials like socks and rely on takeout food, leading to unnecessary expenses.

The Temptation to Deceive Ourselves

One of the most significant revelations from my money journaling experience is the tendency to forget or downplay unnecessary expenses. Writing down every purchase forces me to confront my spending habits and take responsibility for my actions.

Celebrating Successes and Desires

In addition to tracking expenses, I’ve found it helpful to note successes and desires. By writing down purchases I’ve resisted, I can identify patterns of impulse spending and remind myself that wanting something doesn’t mean I need it immediately.

The Joy of a Spend-Free Day

Despite being under the weather, I had a day where I didn’t spend a single dime, and it felt incredibly liberating. This experience has reminded me that life can be enjoyed without breaking the bank.