Little Reminders
I have my share of moments in which living frugally isn’t as easy as I would like it to be. There are times that I get frustrated and just want to spend money for the sake of it. It’s not all rosey all the time. When I am feeling discouraged or need motivation to stay focused on my finances, I give myself little reminders. Here are just a few:
- Don’t think of it like a diet - dieting doesn’t work for a reason. The way to successfully lose weight and keep it off is not to crash diet until you lose 20, 30, or 40 pounds just to go back to the old habits that got you there in the first place. A lot of people are frugal to pay off debt, save for something later, whatever the reasons may be. Healthy finances are about having goals and a plan that are reasonable, manageable and not so restrictive that it feels like a starvation diet designed to squeeze into size 6 jeans for a 20th reunion. Use moderation, splurge occasionally.
- Stuff doesn’t last - if I am finding myself having a major case of the wants, I have to take a real look at the situation and decide if that want today is worth it. Stuff breaks, things wear out. Most of all, there will always be something newer, nicer, flashier and more upgraded than what I have. Where do I draw the line? Stuff now isn’t worth not having freedom later.
- Appreciate what you have - think positively about the things I have instead of feeling bad or inadequate for the things I don’t. A quick dose of perspective on how great and full and comfortable my life is quickly reminds me that I don’t need more than I have. Be thankful.
- Think about tomorrow - I sometimes have trouble balancing comfort today with preparedness for tomorrow. But there is a balance. It doesn’t have to be one or the other - living like there is no tomorrow or forgetting to live for today. Find the balance. The future matters.
“Think positively about the things I have instead of feeling bad or inadequate for the things I don’t” Such a powerful statement! Thanks!
Mark Salinass last blog post..Music and Health by Andrea May
Being thankful for what we do have is so important. I need to remind myself to do that every single day. It helps that I do it with the kids - have you noticed that when we teach them values, it inspires us too?
it’s so handy to have a list of reminders like this around somewhere. my moments of weakness always come when i’m out and about, usually with someone who has different values from the ones i’ve chosen (and ….er….sometimes forget). It helps to recall one’s ultimate goals, as you said. I also like the idea of reminding myself that whatever it is won’t last. It’s so true
neimanmarxists last blog post..Tips For Sleeping
Such great wisdom! One thing I really have learned as I’ve grown older is that stuff doesn’t last. I used to think WOW look at this new thing I have now I am all set for life! Until a few years later when it looked old and broken. It is impossible to keep up, isn’t it? So much better to just focus on treasuring people and experiences rather than stuff.
xo
melissa @ the inspired rooms last blog post..Decorating Your Bedroom: Fresh Inspiration
Thank you for the gentle reminder.
Alana @ Gray Matterss last blog post..Tackle It Tuesday #15 - The Playroom
[...] at Remodeling This Life gives us a refreshing look at the little reminders of why we choose to live frugally. Sometimes it gets hard and it’s nice to take a breather, [...]