Back in November I decided to rein in my somewhat out-of-control shopping and stop it all together for a year. I updated after the first month (maybe 2?) but a few things have changed so I figured I’d bring you up to speed since it was something I got a lot of questions about.
First, after the first month, I had to give my self a “social allowance” I realized really quickly that in order to see my friends and have any time outside of the house just for myself I had to have a some money. Now, it’s not much, just $35 a month. I use it for my time or two a month where I see my friends. For lunch, a movie, coffee, etc. It’s a tiny amount of money but it’s on purpose so I don’t spend my “social allowance’ on the crap I was blowing money on before.
Now, I did complete a design job in March and I spent every single dime I made on myself. I got some clothes, a pair of shoes, an end table and some project supplies. It was GLORIOUS. I also invested in a few new bras, but hot ham, those were necessary.
It’s getting harder. I have to admit. I’m loosing weight and the seasons have changed and I need (want) more gym clothes and really just want to go shopping. Yesterday I was at the mall and it was so hard. Everything I see that I want, I have to put down. And that’s the point, to change my habits because I don’t need everything I want. Clothes are hard, home stuff is hard, okay fine, right now it’s all hard. I just want some retail therapy. GAH!
Mike and I are going on vacation in July for our 10th anniversary and I am going to buy a few things for the trip, a new swimsuit, a hat, a cover up or 3 and probably a new dress. So, that’s spending money, yes, I know but it’s our first trip without kids EVER and well, shut up, I want new shit. Okay? he’s getting some new stuff too so…
So, that’s where that’s at. Will I make it to November? Yeah, the first six months have gone fine and most of the time it feels really good to walk away from stuff. I’ve learned that just because something is cute or “me” or would go so great “there” doesn’t make it worth my money. What I’ve learned so far is that quality is a better buy than quantity, meaning target t’s are cheap now but in the end if I’d bought one from jcrew it wouldn’t have a hole in it. I probably didn’t have to go to such extremes to realize such a no brainer but here I am.
I cannot wait until this is over….. thank god my birthday is coming up soon. Come on gift cards, mama needs some lululemon!
