I am a list person, which lends itself well to making budgets. I really REALLY enjoy creating budgets. It reminds me of creating a weight loss plan. I think of all the possibilities - the money I'm saving, the new outfits, the once a month fancy night out, the tight stomach, increased confidence, etc. When it comes to actually following through on a weight loss plan, its the same as a budget, it doesn't happen. I feel bad for a few days, then buy myself a very overpriced, fattening dessert and start again.
The past couple of months though, I have created a budget and stuck to it. Yes, I am quite proud of myself, but I have to say that I have hated almost every second of it. I can understand why our country is in serious debt, no one likes to feel deprived (kind of like a weight loss plan). I am sure when Tim is actually making money, budgeting might be more rewarding, but right now, even on our tight budget, we won't have any money left in just a few months. I keep having to remind myself that I am just trying to make our money last longer, and there can be confidence found in that - knowing that we have enough to get us through one more month.
Even though I really hate budgeting (the act of living a budget, not writing one out), there are some things I feel like a budget helps me to realize:
1 - It is a GOOD thing to NOT get everything you want, or think you need. Too much self-indulgence makes people lazy, spoiled, and self-entitled. I am working on being happy without buying everything I want, and guess what...I'm happier knowing that I can discipline myself. I seriously feel like a better person for not eating out when I have everything for lunch at home.
3 - Live simply. Since Tim is at school all day (and most nights), Bridger and I like to run errands. We go to the mall, TJ Maxx, pick up a treat at the market, etc. Now, instead of shopping, we go to the park, walk everywhere, visit free museums, and pick up movies at the library to watch at home. I miss shopping, but we still have fun and I don't look at my bank account and wonder where all my money went.
So yes, living on a budget is not easy but it is or can be very rewarding. I hope I can always live within my means (I mean, for at least another month) because that really does make me happy and that is what this life is all about, finding real happiness. Amen.
I agree with every word. I'm so proud of you. I wish I did this better. It is HARD, and for me, it's hard for reasons that aren't the usual ones... like that dang perfectionism. If I am not living the budget to a precise 'T' then what's the point? Ah, so frustrating. Thanks for writing this and making me want to hop on board and be better! Love you!
ReplyDeleteCarlee, I'd missed your last couple of entries! I had so much fun catching up - and reading the old ones too!
ReplyDeleteIf it helps at all, and it probably doesn't, we're still trying to figure out the budgeting thing - especially as we transition to our coming new status of retirement. I think it's part of the grand scheme of learning self control and priorities, which I've determined is an eternal process. I'm really proud of you continuing in the effort!