I was reminded today of a time when I really had to get creative with budgeting….
Related: Zebit Challenge Day 4: Enough Already, Time To Prioritize
Kids were a major financial curveball for my husband and I. We really hadn’t thought through how much it would change our spending habits. While we went out far less (saving money on nights on the town), we spent a lot more on things for the children. I remember realizing our budgeting strategy had to change. Especially, since I had left my lucrative corporate job and was now freelancing and starting my own little company. Income was down and expenses were up.
Getting fit for free.
I joined a gym when my kids were little. It had a daycare that only charged $3/hour. It was the one hour a day I gave myself to stay sane and healthy. A gym membership isn’t cheap. So, when I learned I could study to become a fitness instructor, I jumped at the chance. Getting paid to workout AND getting a free membership was going to save me over $700/year. Plus, I’d make a small amount of money I could use to pay for splurges. I still teach to this day. While I don’t need the money, I can’t imagine not taking advantage of the opportunity to save money. Which leads to today’s challenge…How can you save or make money?
We all have talents. We all have passions and interests. It’s time to step back and say, “How can I get creative and go from spending money to making it?” It’s amazing how many resources we can tap into if we turn it into a game. Finding ways to shift the cash flow in our favor turns stress into satisfaction. The ability to take control is a powerful, positive feeling. Maybe you can start selling things eBay? Or, offer your organizing expertise to friends with messy closets? It’s about finding your value and offering in a way that can benefit you financially. Identify at least three ways you might be able to create a new stream of income or eliminate the need to pay for something. Then, join me tomorrow to see how I plan to keep my momentum going.Don't miss:
Zebit Challenge Day 1: My Financial Stress Reality Check
Zebit Challenge Day 2: Budgeting 101
Zebit Challenge Day 3: Budgeting Curveballs (Ouch, I’ve Been Hit!)
Zebit Challenge Day 4: Enough Already, Time To Prioritize
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18+ years of experience in the development of professional HR tools and resources. Has delivered 200+ presentations to more than 10,000 professionals on a wide variety of career topics. Managed teams of 50+ with budgets of $35M+. Launched www.CAREEREALISM.com, which is now a top 3 career blog with 2,300,000+ monthly pageviews, 1,000,000+ visitors/month, 1,500,000+ social media followers, and 100,000+ daily email subscribers. Founded the first Career Improvement Platform, www.CareerHMO.com, an online resource that helps users solve their career problems faster and better than they could on their own. Currently has 5,000+ active members..
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