the start of 1100 days

THE STATS

• Starting Debt Balance: $117,450
• Ending Debt Balance: $118,920
• Increased/Decreased by: $1,470
• Total Transactions: $5,798
  • Budgeted: $2,183
  • Overspend: $3,614
• Debt Payments: $19,561
• Total Credit Cards: 7
  • With Balance: 5

THE DEETS
When I look at these numbers, it feels overwhelming – I’m spending like it’s my favorite pastime (…and it kind of is 😅). But looking at the transactions, I’m seeing that there are several categories that I haven’t allocated for at all.

My guilt free spending is out of control and I’m purchasing things for myself and others that I really don’t NEED to (ex: a full skincare routine for my husband, dinner for a friend who was prepared to pay her own way – but I like looking like I’m flush with cash, and wine when I really should be cutting back on drinking too, etc.).

I purchased a yoga package for $250 (which is necessary… but is it really?) and have $150/mo. payment still auto-drafting for surgery I had last year. I’ll be done with the surgery payments in May.

I’m overspending on groceries, too. While I’m not ready to cut coupons or shop at Walmart (I have issues, I know), I am fully aware that I choose convenience over saving money – and this is something that doesn’t always make sense. The numbers highlight that.

THE PLAN FOR FEBRUARY
Again. You have to start somewhere. I’ve never consistently looked at the numbers/trends, and I certainly have never published this information where others can see and hold me accountable.

My target spend for February is $1500. This includes budgeted subscriptions, personal care items, and groceries.

This means that I cannot spend on anything else. February will be a no-spend month. I cannot buy “extra” things – for myself or others. Nothing on Amazon, nothing at little cute boutiques, nothing outside of necessities.

This is going to be HARD. But I can do it.