It’s time to get responsible ☝🏾
Hey twenty-somethings, welcome back! Did you miss me? I feel like it’s been forever since my last blog post. What was that, March? Sheesh. We've not only entered a new month but a new quarter of the year! It feels like the perfect time to chat about how to be more intentional this quarter and really connect with yourself. I know this because, a few days ago, I had to give myself the same talk.
For those of you who don’t follow my personal Instagram (you should, BTW), you don’t know that I just bought a new car! Yes, that’s right, there’s a new hottie on the street, and she’s super sporty and cute. Now, this was no easy decision. I mean, I swore I was gonna stay down with my 2010 Civic till the wheels fell off, but—I was inspired. I felt like with a new Mia (and a new raise ◡̈), I deserved a new ride, am I right? I could afford it and still have the money I needed to pay my bills, so why not?
So, I went to the dealership, well, I went to several dealerships, until I found a car I fell in love with. I found a beautiful black, updated Honda, now named Rocky, and she was SO worth it. I’m so happy, and I feel like a new woman.
Fast forward, I got my first paycheck post-Rocky. Of course, Sallie Mae had to get hers, my credit card bill was a bit high from the previous month, AND I treated myself to some new shoes, my car insurance was due, and I had a bunch of other bills. As you can imagine, these responsibilities took the majority of my paycheck and left me with little to use to enjoy life in the coming weeks. As I paid my final bill and saw the $ left in my bank account, I frowned. How could I have been this irresponsible? Now, I won’t blame myself for the new car, because that was something I wanted and was prepared for. But when I realized the car payment wasn’t due immediately, I splurged. I bought things I didn’t need and things that could have waited until I was in a more comfortable position financially. That I will blame myself for. Though I was upset at myself for about an hour or two, I realized I was now reaping the consequences of my own actions.
Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m not saying don’t treat yourself. I, myself, am a strong advocate for self-care and a little treat here and there. What I’m saying is to think more responsibly when it comes to your spending. Twenty-somethings, don’t be like me. Be more responsible.
Here are some things I’m implementing to stay on track:
Budgeting: Use an Excel sheet or a notes app to track your monthly expenses. List out all your bills and necessary expenses first.
Prioritizing Needs Over Wants: Ask yourself, what do I NEED (emphasis on NEED) to buy for myself this month? How much will I have left over?
Setting Savings Goals: Decide how much you want to save each month and stick to it.
Monitoring Spending: Keep an eye on your spending habits. Avoid impulse purchases by waiting 24 hours before buying anything non-essential.
Now to some people, this is probably common sense, but for those like me, sometimes these things can slip our minds, and you may end up in an irresponsible position like I was.
Luckily for me, I worked some things out and saved myself from a financial CRISIS this month. But it was the check-in I needed. It made me realize I really need to lock in with myself and stop playing around. I recommend you do the same! It’s a new quarter, a new season, and almost a new month. Where do you wanna be in the next season?
Remember, being intentional and financially responsible now will pay off in the future. Let’s make this quarter our best yet by focusing on our goals and making smarter choices.
Have you ever made a similar mistake? Let me know in the comments! <3
Love,
Mia, the twenty-something ♡