She Strengthens

Summer of Financial Awakening

This past summer was a challenging one for me, to say the least. After a broken engagement, moving in and out of my parents’ home, and struggling to maintain a sense of normalcy, I found myself in a precarious financial situation. As a teacher, I had to make my salary stretch further than ever before.

Reassessing Priorities

I knew I couldn’t take on side gigs, given my emotional state, so I had to scrutinize my expenses and make some tough decisions. It wasn’t easy, but I’m glad I did. This experience taught me a great deal about myself and what I truly need versus what I can live without.

The Essentials

Here are five things I discovered were non-negotiables for me:

• Reliable Wi-Fi: With graduate coursework and streaming services, I couldn’t afford to lose my internet connection. Luckily, I snagged a promotional deal with AT&T and pay only $30/month.
• Home Cooking: After realizing how much I spent on takeout while living with my parents, I rediscovered my love for cooking. It’s not only healthier but also saves me a significant amount of money.
• My Roommate: Sharing a two-bedroom apartment with my best friend turned out to be a great financial decision. We split the cost of living in half, which has been a game-changer for both our budgets.
• Renter’s Insurance: After a close call with a fire in our building, I’m grateful for the peace of mind that comes with having basic coverage.
• My Menstrual Cup: As a woman, I’m tired of shouldering the financial burden of menstruation. My menstrual cup is a cost-effective solution that’s also better for the environment.

The Nice-to-Haves

On the other hand, here are five things I learned I can live without:

• Fast Food: Cutting back on Chick-Fil-A and Starbucks runs was tough, but it’s been a necessary adjustment. I’ve replaced them with healthier, more affordable options.
• Bi-Weekly Mani/Pedis: While pampering myself is lovely, it’s not essential. I’ve started doing my own manicures and pedicures at home, which is not only cheaper but also more relaxing.
• Bath and Body Works: I used to splurge on their products, but I’ve since discovered that store brands offer similar quality at a fraction of the cost.
• High-Speed Data: When I reviewed my cell phone bill, I realized I was paying extra for high-speed data I didn’t need. Wi-Fi is ubiquitous, and regular data suits me just fine.
• Contact Lenses: Going back to glasses full-time was a difficult aesthetic decision, but it’s been a necessary financial one. I’ve learned to appreciate the convenience and cost-effectiveness of glasses.

Lessons Learned

Summer ’17 may have been tough, but it’s taught me valuable lessons about financial responsibility and what truly matters. While I may revisit some of the things on my nice-to-have list in the future, I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn what I can and cannot live without.