mo' money. mo' problems.

Bits of Truth

I'm working on that whole "live simply" bit. I've never been a financial whiz. Ask my math teachers, my tutors, my tax accountant, my parents (eek...). 

I know I need to spend less than I make. 

That isn't really an issue with me. I'm not a big shopper, I don't travel as much as I wish I did, I don't have an expensive car or house, and I have a decent salary.

The problem is, it hasn't always been this way. There was a time (all through my career in aviation) where I made a lot of money. However, I had no idea how to save. I spent and spent, and spent.... You get the picture. Traveling over seas isn't cheap, especially in Europe. Think: double the price for everything. 

With all the beautiful clothes, souvenirs, presents, cultural experiences, chocolates, food, shoes surrounding me for 5 years straight.... I think I just over spent. So, when I left aviation (abruptly), I had nothing saved. Being essentially out of work, living hand to mouth for 2 years did some damage on my credit cards. Not anything huge...but enough to cause me stress. I'm still paying it off. 

Add in an audit by the IRS, and my taxes done INCORRECTLY by my own tax accountant for 3 years.....and my bank account was dwindling quickly.

S is a finance major. A businessman. His entire business is built around advising financially naive peeps like me. I'm grateful that he's sensitive to bribes in the form of steak, potatoes and pasta. 

Budgeted life, I'm here and ready! I can't wait to pay all this baggage off quickly. So -- in the meantime, if I can't go out to dinner with you, take lavish vacations to see you, or buy you pretty birthday gifts....you know why. At least for now. 

Debt = stress. I'm grateful it's not out of control. I'm grateful I have people in my life to support me and help me as I learn. I'm thick headed and I learn slow. I'm sorry. 

Money is a universal stress. I'm not trying to get too personal in this post, I just think we all should take a second look at our finances, keep track of our spending, and make sure you're making wise choices. The less stress in your life, the better, right?!