I realized tonight how much things have changed and how I need to step up as an adult. I opened my first phone plan. I've been on my dad's plan since I was sixteen years old and when it randomly shut off tonight I knew I had to do something. Its bad enough that I have to rely on everyone for a ride to work but to make my parents pay for my phone when I am nearly 22 is just wrong. So...I did it and its done and it is just something I will have to work out on my own. I went on a budget website so I can keep track of my bills and I realized that I went in over my head on a lot of things. I realized that I don't manage my money correctly and that my reckless spending really has to stop. Seeing it on all paper scared me - could I really be that much in debt?
It makes me sad but also gives me a goal. My first goal is to wipe out my bank credit card debt. Its around $1200. I also have another credit card at $1000. My monthly phone bill is going to be a little over $100 and since I am not paying rent, I spend about $40 on toiletries and another $40 in gas. Am I airing my dirty laundry out on my blog? Yes. Is it so I get a wake up call? Yes. I don't care if ya'll know my bill problems. The bottom line is that they are my problems - not my parents or my siblings or Lieutenants or yours. You just get to read about it.
How do you all stay afloat on life expenses? Let me know in the comments!
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I can't even think of the last I've been to a mall because money gets tight and I'm trying to get rid of debt too. I went to see a financial consultant on base that was provided by the Airmen and Family Readiness Center (AFRC). He helped me to create a budget so I can see where I stand. Until I start making my own money, I have to maintain a budget.
ReplyDeleteThis is such a great blog, and its great your taking control of your life. To keep a float, I maintain a budget that I made off excel. It's hard when you have (debt) take my word for that. But its possible and you just have to discipline yourself, and know that the debt WILL go away. Stay strong girl.
ReplyDeleteI definitely avoid places that I tend to piddle away money, like Target. I only go in there for specific things. And we try to use our credit cards as little as possible. Basically, if we can't afford it with the paycheck, then it waits til the next one. I know that doesn't work for everything, but we try our hardest.
ReplyDeleteThe most important thing is taking charge of your finances, which you have done :)
Dude, I totally had that epiphany in 2008. I don't know what caused it but I set up an excel spreadsheet. It keeps track of all my bills, when they're due, how much, pay days, how much, totals, and then tells me how much I have left every month. We are OFFICIALLY into the land of kill credit card debt. By the end of this year, there won't be any left or I'll personally chop off my left leg. I also avoid going anywhere without a list. Bad things happen if I don't have a list, lol.
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