I'm just going to say it right now...its taking Caleb and I longer to get out of debt than we thought it would. I'll be the first to admit, we haven't been AS frugal and disciplined as we should've been so far in 2016. We've definitely still paid off a LOT of debt, which is really encouraging and motivating, but we also still have a long way to go.
There are some days I get really down on us, saying "what's taking us so long?", and just kind of feeling sorry for our situation. Then Caleb quickly reminds me we'll be debt free well before either of us are 30, and that's pretty darn exciting.
So instead of feeling miserable that we're still stuck IN debt, I'm using it as motivation to continue, to tighten up our budget - oh and actually MAKE SURE we budget every month. We've done a little too much miscellaneous spending lately where we look back at our bank statement and say "what the heck did we buy there anyway?!".
It's always a good reminder that you don't have to "stay stuck" in the situation you're in. If there's something you don't like, you HAVE the power to change it! Whether that's a crappy job, drowning in debt or just wanting to shake up your exercise routine! You can do it!
Long story short, we're sick of being in debt, so we're saying goodbye to silly overspending at the grocery store and while we're out and about, and HELLO to more at-home date nights. I'm wanting to get creative and set a small cash budget for Caleb and I to go back and forth and plan themed date nights in every other weekend! I think it would be a fun way to get creative on how to stretch a dollar and still make each other feel special! I may or may not have a Lady and the Tramp theme coming on... get ready, Caleb! ;)
Happy Thursday, friends!!
yay girl! Us too! I'm with you, I've had those same thoughts and feelings on days. We can do it!
ReplyDeleteOoh Lady & The Tramp themed date sounds fun!
ReplyDeleteYes! I actually kinda need that crappy job advice right now, so thanks for saying it. It's easy to just stay stuck in an unpleasant situation because it's uncomfortable or difficult to make a change, but chances are it's totally worth it in the end. I love the idea of cheap, at-home dates. How cute was Erin's Christmas in July date?! I can't wait to hear about your Lady and the Tramp one!
ReplyDeleteWe're in the same boat - even though we've technically just started the grad school debt, this summer has been a little more extravagant than usual. We try to have a budget meeting about once a month, and are actually having one tonight! And I love good at-home date nights. Can't wait to see what you all come up with!
ReplyDeleteI need to get so much better with my budget. Once I get back to TX, & know more of what my new bills/income will be I need to sit down & work it all out.
ReplyDeleteGood luck! Now that we bought a house we watch our spending more but yes it's hard especially since we have stuff we want to do to the house.
ReplyDeleteI'm so with you! My husband and I are using his time in the Army to get ourselves out of debt. The only debt we ever want again is mortgage and maybe car.
ReplyDeleteIt can be really frustrating to not see as much progress as you would like. But you are right that staying focused and moving is what will get you closer! There is no way we will pay off our mortgage even sort of soon, but we are paying a tiny bit extra every month, and that will get us there a tiny bit faster!
ReplyDeleteBeing debt free by 30 is a HUGE accomplishment!! Good for you guys!
ReplyDeleteI understand the struggle! I am trying to get out of debt myself and it is a long, frustrating journey. Try to remember the positive, small steps that you make and celebrate them thoroughly! You're re thinking your budget-congrats on making that change and feeling motivated about it! Feel empowered that you are taking steps to be debtfree! Enjoy the sunshine, pool time, festivals, and other summer activities that are lower cost or free. You got this!
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