the 20-something’s guide to a 40-day spending freeze
Since we have been getting super science-y on wellness big sis:: the pod, I figured this month’s blog post could dive into another aspect of “wellness”. Over the last 5 years or so, I have given up “extra” spending to correspond with the Christian season of Lent. The first year I challenged myself, I was surprised at how restricting my frivolous spending actually made me feel even more freedom. Initially, my goal was to sacrifice some of my “wants” to help me realize that they are not “needs”. However, I realized so much more about myself during the challenge.
hotter & smarter in 5:: taking back your power of choice (podcast episode)
I realized that consumerism silently grasps me in ways I didn’t even realize. There are so many trends, items, and “feelings” that can be bought to help me achieve some aesthetic ideal…whether with my style, my home, or my life, but do I really need those items? Or do I just feel like I need them to achieve “x”? The initial year of the challenge, and every subsequent year after, has forced me to check-in on my habits and routines and to realize that life is about so much more than purchases and trying to create an ideal style, home, or life. By saying “no” to certain things, I am freeing myself from the grasps that these items (or consumerism as a whole!) has on me.
I also realize that material items are meant to be enjoyed, too! I love fashion, buying my 7 dollar lattes on a Saturday, and feeling free to purchase something that is going to enhance my life in some way. These challenges have shown me that I actually have a choice to purchase these items, rather than feeling like I need them. The yearly spending freeze challenge helps to reset my “spending compass” so I can be more attuned to the reason behind certain purchases and feel more confident in those purchases! (no more shopping guilt!) I also think you might be surprised at what I do and don’t allow myself, so take a look below!
This can look different for everyone, so here is a little inspo for how I conduct my 40-day spending freeze…but feel free to modify it for yourself! This is just filled with little spending sacrifices that help me to reset while still enjoying life and time with friends and loved ones! :)
What IS allowed::
My general rule is no “extra” spending on myself. So birthday presents for friends, family, hostess gifts, etc. are all still okay!
I do allow myself to use previously-given gift cards…especially if the store for the gift card is having a sale. Gotta maximize the gift card, of course!
I am allowed to have lattes and meals at a restaurant or cafe if it is with someone as a girl date or a date night with my hubby! Relationships are so important, and that is not my reason for this challenge!
If I run out of daily skincare or make-up, I am allowed to restock it, but no new eyeshadow palettes or lip glosses in the name of “necessity”
Vacations! And spending it on vacation. We don’t often go on vacation during this time, but I would recommend trying the spending freeze during a time when you aren’t on vacation.
What IS NOT allowed::
I don’t buy any new clothes, shoes, make-up, or skincare. This one is the toughest for me. I love style and curating certain pieces for my closet, so saying “no” to this is the hardest, but arguably the most cleansing.
I don’t buy lattes or meals alone. This includes take-out or lunches on-the-go.
Some tips for your own spending freeze (& hard lessons that I’ve learned!)::
“If you fail to plan, you’re planning to fail”- Trying not to shop online is my biggest challenge. I know anytime some of my favorite stores are having a sale, I will be tempted. By going into the challenge knowing this, I can be disciplined with myself to say “no”.
Meal prep! Especially if you are including no solo meals or coffees/lattes.
Set your rules in advance! Certain situations will come up and you will question if this applies. Whatever rules you’d like to apply, make sure you set them up front so you don’t have as much “grey area” during the challenge. The more “grey area”, the harder it is to stay consistent and successful with the challenge!
The first few weeks are the hardest, but it does get easier!
Even if you don’t celebrate Lent, taking the time to gain back control and the power of choice within your spending can be hugely beneficial. It is often silent in your own life, but so evident in other peoples’ lives, and we are quick to judge when we don’t realize the power material items have over us. The spending challenge can also look totally different for everyone! There are no “set” rules, but I would challenge you to try to do the hard thing, whatever that is for you! I truly believe that is where the most benefit comes from.
If you’re joining me for this challenge, yay!! I’m happy to have some accountability buddies and have you join me! I usually start Ash Wednesday and end at the end of Lent, but you can choose whatever date range works for you :)
I also hope you guys have a wonderful March! And as always, thank you for following along!
In health & happiness,
Kelsy
