Doubling Down on Debt

As I mentioned before, I have been doubling down on getting myself out of credit card debt.  Finally, I was just so done with being in debt that things just seemed to fall into place because my will was there.  I was willing to make sacrifices and try new ways to save money (all while still maintaining a decent lifestyle with fun and shopping too).  Income tax refund- right to my credit card; I didn't even bat an eyelash or think for a minute of something I wanted to buy.  In the final few months of this process, I have a few more tips to share.

1)  Budget ahead of time.

Instead of waiting until deductions were taking out from my checking such as utility bills or the gym membership, I have lately been balancing my checking account as if these expenses are already deducted.  This practice has been a huge help because instead of spending a little too much and then scrambling at the end, I now have a good idea of how much I will have left over once my bills are paid.  It keeps me more disciplined because I know exactly how much money  I have until I get paid next.

2)  Align spending with values as much as possible.

I like this one a lot, because it makes me feel more control over how I spend my money and live my life.  It was easy for me to identify my values- I prefer to shop a) made in USA b) at companies that treat their employees well c) companies that are environmentally aware and d) grocery stores with less genetically modified food choices.  So, as much as I can, I try to "vote with my wallet" for the values that I value.  Sure, it costs a little more for me to get my oil changed at a place that recycles the oil and materials, but that 6 dollars or so is well worth it when I think that I am helping the environment, even a little, by making that choice.

Same goes for Costco- my vote will always go them for allowing employees to unionize, giving them health benefits and fair wages.  They also save me money, so now I am adding a monthly trip to Costco and trying to up the amount of things I buy from them- starting with coffee and shave gel and next time will be adding toilet paper and getting gas there to the list.

I can't go too crazy with this one, because there are things that you just can't find made in the USA (such as shoes) or things that I just can't afford made in USA.  However, even adding a few purchases made here can add up if lots of people do it.  A few recommendations are www.etsy.com and Hard Tail exercise and lounge wear found at Nordstrom and Lord and Taylor.

3)  Speak Up

After hearing the woman in front of me at Kohl's one day ask the cashier if she had any coupons up there, I've been trying this here and there.  On a recent trip to Kohl's, I asked that question and was given an additional 15% off of my order, even though I don't have a Kohl's card.  A few minutes later, I asked at Ulta since my coupon had expired.  That was all it took for me to save 3.50 on a curling iron.  As long as you ask nicely, the worst they can say is no.  This trick can save you a lot of money, and it's a confidence booster when you ask and are given something that you wouldn't have though to ask for before.