All I Need To Get By

It doesn’t take much to turn my simple trip to Target to buy groceries into, “Let me see what’s in the shoe section. I’m not going to buy anything. I’m just going to look.” Hours later I roll up to the checkout lane, and there are usually more clothes and shoes in the basket than food. My 14-year-old sister always tells me, “You have everything you need and want in this apartment except for food.” That’s a shame. But, she’s right.

Now, I wasn’t as impulsive about this decision to go cold turkey from buying things this year. I realized what I needed to do the same day I attempted to reorganize my closet. It took me days, however, to accept this need for change. It took an even longer time to decide how to get started. How do I break a habit that has practically existed much of my adult life? I guess I am going to figure that out this year.

I have been told once before, “If you don’t want to slip, don’t go where it’s slippery.” In other words, I need to stay my butt out of Target. It’s bad, y’all. I should have stock in that company. I had the nerve to go to there a few days ago to purchase some toothpaste. I know better than that. Clearance signs were everywhere. Summer clothes have already been added to the racks. This cute little printed skirt seemed like she was smiling at me… calling my name. My escape plan: I had to remind myself what I was there for. It wasn’t easy. But I got my toothpaste and got out of there. Whew! How many more months do I have to endure this, again? LOL.

What do I deem necessary to buy? I’ll keep it simple. I am not allowed to buy any clothes, shoes, perfume, or accessories. I travel out of town at least five or six times a year. I have to cut that out. I am a music lover, like no other. I go to about five concerts a year. I am allowed one concert this year. Buying tons of music also exceeds the boundaries of necessary. And from now on, I will be taking my lunch to work.

Anyone who knows me knows that I have a small love affair with … hair. Yes, hair. I am a hair stylist, and this girl loves some extensions. I love to switch from my natural curls to the hundreds of different looks I have had over the years. Now unless I am buying products for my clients or for my business, the beauty supply stores will not get a penny of my money. I have feeling this will be a true test of how creative I can be as a hairstylist. I’ll have to try revamping my business and my look with what I already have. Challenge accepted. I will keep you posted on how I do this and much more.

One of my main goals this year is to finish paying my car loan. I am not due to finish paying it off for two years. But if I focus on my finances and budget well enough, I can reach my goal by December 2013. This will free up my money to focus on other priorities and debt.

Now looking at this, it may seem like I am depriving myself at a time in my life when I should be enjoying my freedoms. I am single. I don’t have any kids. But after listening to a financial series at church – http://www.crossoverbiblefellowship.org – I have come to realize that my money can be used to impact the lives of others if I take care of my main priorities and free myself from any debt. My life isn’t about me, so it should reflect that understanding.

My mind is made up. See, here goes that impulsiveness, again. At least it’s geared toward more important things this time. I encourage you to reflect on how you spend your money and what you consider to be your top priorities this year. There is no harm in enjoying your life and the fruits of your hard work. But remember to seek the things that add value to your life. Often times we chase after meaningless treasures. The impact of you using your money to help a family in need will far outlast purchasing personal indulgences. Think about it. The great thing about me saying this out loud means that I heard it, too. Reflection. What does your financial mirror say about you?

Sincerely,