Saturday, June 30, 2012

Do I Need More Discipline or a Looser Budget?

For the last few months, I've gone over my budgets in areas like gas, groceries, and eating out/fun money. The fact that I've been absorbing other expenses into my "cushion" money hasn't helped (my CSET test and auto registration come to mind). I've also done a TON of driving to my new school/district office and back and forth from my old and new apartment. BUT, that doesn't explain all the overages.

On one hand, I think that I could be more careful in my spending, and get back down to what I've been spending in the past. I still have savings goals, and want to make sure that I don't start overspending when I don't need to.

On the other hand, I now have zero debt. ZERO. My budget can loosen up a bit, and I will still be able to max out my Roth IRA this year, as well as contribute to a 403(b), and save $550 per month. Which is great, and I'm thankful that I have found a job where I am able to do that. BUT, if I lock down and get more careful, I could add another $100-$200 per month to that number.

I think there's a reason people talk about being Gazelle-like in debt payoff. Not that I'm suddenly buying designer purses or throwing money out the window. But I think now that I've accomplished that big goal, I want to loosen the reigns a bit. Maybe when I am closer to buying a house or paying for a wedding, some of that gazelle-intensity will come back. I know I have it in me. But for now, I'm going to enjoy being debt free and slow down to a leisurely jog...more giraffe-like. Or excited puppy-like. I don't know, I don't like animals enough to know which one to compare myself to. But you get my point.

5 comments:

  1. You've done so well paying off your debt, you deserve to have a little fun now : )

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  2. I agree. I am in the same position.
    I decided to loosen up a little and enjoy life a bit more
    when need will come back, I'll be strong again.
    i'm just happy I can pay cash for eveything I buy now !
    Pauline

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  3. i think once you get your e-fund where you need it to be. it's great too loosen up. You earn money to enjoy life and not to rack it up.... good job on getting rid of all the debt. I say, put some extra money in a fun fund...and just spend from there!

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  4. I say loosen up the purse strings. You have done an amazing job and as long as you are able to have new experiences or enjoy yourself more without going into debt over it-go for it! We spend more time worrying about living sometimes than actually living. I'm not saying go crazy wild but give yourself a little break. :) You have accomplished so much!

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  5. I think that if its only $100 or $200 per month that you need a looser budget. Reward yourself a bit! You can tighten the purse strings in the fall if you feel the need.

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