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payday

September 1st, 2005 at 05:53 pm

Like so many others who have posted, this morning finds me updating the money tracking spreadsheet and figuring out where to put the resources for the next two weeks. All bills are paid and $300 went to the mbna.

Overall, I've started paying in cash when I make a purchase; nearly all things in cash actually. I cover our needs and a few wants and then I pay the cc's. This way I'm not increasing cc balances and am still paying them down at a rate I am happy with. I used to do it in reverse. Pay the cc's and then figure out how to get what we needed. Which usually ended up on the cc. This lead to over spending because there were no immediate limits.

Its really helped me get a more accurate feel for what I am spending. And as the research proven cliche goes - I spend less when the cold hard cash is leaving my hands (or checkbook). The numbers feel like they have more consequence. Using plastic feels too much like play money.

I started using my Discover as my main card again, replacing the mbna which I am diligently paying down. But this time, I am keeping my purchases low and have made a condition that I use it only if I will pay it off every month. That should be simple enough. And once this cycle gets moving, it will be easier to maintain.

Last month, due to events beyond my control, spending was far too far out of control. I'm still on track for paying off the mbna, but the date for zero balance has been moved back to December. That will be a nice holiday present.

I havent been counting my no spend days, but have been very good about bringing my lunch and tea or water to work. I've also loaded up my desk with Pria bars. Vending machines are now a thing of my past.

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