I want to make a change. One that requires quite a bit of money. (How is that for being vague? I am not talking surgery of any sort. In fact, it would be a temporary change, but one that I think is well worth the money it would require.)
So this means that for the next year, or possibly longer, I need to live as cheaply as possible. Interesting timing, given that I am less than one year into a new mortgage. Even more interesting considering that I already live quite cheaply on a day-to-day basis.
My car is paid for. I eat out only a few times each month. I don't have any extravagant hobbies. I've been watching Til Debt Do Us Part for years and live off of cash, using a system very similar to Gail's jars.
Regardless, I still need to find a few more places to cut costs.
I do have a weakness for shopping. Usually I deal with this by simply not going to the mall. It is pretty much a given that if I do go to pick something up, I will end up seeing a scarf, necklace, or shirt that I fall in love with and buy without hesitation. In reality, I have very little need for any type of clothes at this point. So, impromptu shopping is out.
Cut my cable? Perhaps. I am almost down to just the basic package now, but there is still one "entertainment" add-on that could go. Restaurants will officially be for special occasions only, and good-bye $6 cocktails, hello water.
Grocery shopping is an area where I oddly spend a lot more money than I should. I rarely get through all of the food I buy before something is going bad, and this is awful for more than one reason. More diligent meal planning will hopefully help. Can I become a couponer? Not sure I have that in me, but I can always try.
Truth be told, I have been considering buying a new car, but that plan has been scrapped. I will need to put a bit of money into my current car, but that should end up buying me at least three more years without a new car payment, so I'm okay with that trade-off.
I have two trips coming up in the next year. Both of which are basically bought and paid for, other than our food and entertainment - I'll have to be smart about those.
Beyond those things, I am at somewhat of a loss. I don't think I have much/anything to sell. I have a pretty lame (and cheap) cellphone plan. The hours/obligations of my job don't really leave room for a second one.
Welcome to my new frugal life.