Tuesday nights my hubby hangs with the guys, so I usually do errands, visit a friend, or just hang at the house. Last night I ended up working really late and got home at 8. I actually did the dishes left over from breakfast and lunch prep! I also prepped a crockpot meal and cleaned up after that too!
That's where my progress ended.
I didn't clean up (personal hygene) as I'd intended, and although I set my alarm early, I didn't wake up in time to have a quiet time. Actually, I didn't even wake up in time to hang the wash on the line outside! Oops.
Then I couldn't find the book I've been reading from my reading list. Obviously I need to read it more often! So I grabbed another book from the list to start on. At least I'll get something done!
I've learned once again that nightime prep is incredibly important! If I'd had a lunch made last night, I'd have had time to look for that book. Or hang the clothes on the line outside. If I'd showered last night, I'd still have had time to have a quiet time.
I think that's key to it all.
Why is it that the nighttime, when all I want to do is veg out, is the key time to get these things done?
But I am becoming a finisher!
I am becoming a finisher!
I am a finisher!
I keep saying it...maybe it'll "take" one of these days!
{deep sigh}
So how do these goals grab ya:
clean the kitchen after dinner every night
organize one drawer or shelf every night
make breakfasts & lunches before doing the dishes
prep the coffee for my hubby at night
shower at night
set asside outfit for the next day every night
find everything I'll need to take to work the night before
~any returns
~daily reading
~grocery lists
~written daily plan!
I used to take care of a child with multiple disabilities. One of the tools I implemented while working with him each morning was writing out the plan for the day. When something out of the ordinary was going to happen, it would go on the list so he knew what to expect and there were no surprises. Of course, the day didn't always go according to plan, but he was more prepared and better able to handle changes when he could look at the plan, even if it had changed.
For a short time I did this for myself at work (another job) and it really helped me stay on track, not forget things & stay less scattered. More steady.
I may implement that as well. Prepping at night, including the written daily plan. Hm.
Wednesday, September 3, 2008
Tuesday, September 2, 2008
Are you a finisher?
Since my counseling session earlier today, I've been thinking about the concept of steadfastness and creating new habits, routine & orderliness.
Synonyms for steadfast are sure, dependable, reliable, constant, unwavering, staunch, steady.
Steadfast literally means fixed in place, but is chiefly used figuratively to indicate undeviating constancy or resolution. Literally, steady is applied to that which is relatively firm in position or continuous in movement or duration: a steady flow; figuratively, it implies sober regularity or persistence.
The three areas that I'm striving for steadfastness in my life are in keeping my kitchen clean and organized, having a daily quiet time, and regularly reading from my reading list.
My ideal is that:
~I will identify times each day that these will actions will take place,
~I will endeavor to follow through with the planned activities, and
~A habit if becoming a finisher will be formed!
I want to become a finisher. Right now I'm an idea girl. I have a million fantastic ideas and scramble to start each one. Before you know it, I've collapsed under the weight of my ideas and I've gotten almost nothing accomplished.
So first I have to identify times for all of these activities.
The first is easy. Doing the dishes and cleaning the counters after dinner just makes sense. My hubby and I have talked about this, and while we're at it, one of us can make lunches at the same time too. But Bill cautioned me to take responsibility for my own habits and not be dependent upon whether my hubby follows through on the plan. I thought this was pretty insightful because I hadn't even mentioned the plan yet, nor the fact that we've had that plan for two weeks and haven't done it once yet!
While keeping it clean is relatively simple, organizing it is not. I have had a bit of a jump start on that though. I took some time over the long weekend to organize some areas of the kitchen and have even more ideas for continuing the organization, but that is going to take some time. I think I can realistically plan to organize one drawer or shelf each day after having done the dishes and the whole kitchen should be done by the end of November! Oi.
Which brings us to reading from my recommended reading list. I had a goal to read one of those books every two months. And since I was half way done one of them, the goal implied that I'd be able to finish it by the end of August. Not even close.
That tells me I need to establish a routine of reading. A daily routine. At least 3 or 4 days of the week I don't have plans lunch plans, so it would be realistic to read during my lunch break. And assuming I'm bringing my lunches to work, I won't have to spend time searching for food!
Lastly, there's my quiet time for prayer and bible study. Oh, how I've striven to get up early for that. I've failed almost every time. Or I'll do it for a day or two and then stop.
It makes a huge difference, though, when I'm able to do it in the morning before I start my day. There's a huge temptation to put it off to the evening, but then I know I'll get caught up in spending time with my hubby (after I do the dishes and make lunches, of course!) and there is only so much time after work!
So here 'goes! I'll get up a half hour early to spend time reading the bible and praying before I start my day.
I think I'll go a step further and make sure I have less to do in the mornings by cleaning up the night before instead of in the morning. It just makes sense to do as much at night to make the mornings easier and less hectic.
Talk about starting the day off right!
Synonyms for steadfast are sure, dependable, reliable, constant, unwavering, staunch, steady.
Steadfast literally means fixed in place, but is chiefly used figuratively to indicate undeviating constancy or resolution. Literally, steady is applied to that which is relatively firm in position or continuous in movement or duration: a steady flow; figuratively, it implies sober regularity or persistence.
The three areas that I'm striving for steadfastness in my life are in keeping my kitchen clean and organized, having a daily quiet time, and regularly reading from my reading list.
My ideal is that:
~I will identify times each day that these will actions will take place,
~I will endeavor to follow through with the planned activities, and
~A habit if becoming a finisher will be formed!
I want to become a finisher. Right now I'm an idea girl. I have a million fantastic ideas and scramble to start each one. Before you know it, I've collapsed under the weight of my ideas and I've gotten almost nothing accomplished.
So first I have to identify times for all of these activities.
The first is easy. Doing the dishes and cleaning the counters after dinner just makes sense. My hubby and I have talked about this, and while we're at it, one of us can make lunches at the same time too. But Bill cautioned me to take responsibility for my own habits and not be dependent upon whether my hubby follows through on the plan. I thought this was pretty insightful because I hadn't even mentioned the plan yet, nor the fact that we've had that plan for two weeks and haven't done it once yet!
While keeping it clean is relatively simple, organizing it is not. I have had a bit of a jump start on that though. I took some time over the long weekend to organize some areas of the kitchen and have even more ideas for continuing the organization, but that is going to take some time. I think I can realistically plan to organize one drawer or shelf each day after having done the dishes and the whole kitchen should be done by the end of November! Oi.
Which brings us to reading from my recommended reading list. I had a goal to read one of those books every two months. And since I was half way done one of them, the goal implied that I'd be able to finish it by the end of August. Not even close.
That tells me I need to establish a routine of reading. A daily routine. At least 3 or 4 days of the week I don't have plans lunch plans, so it would be realistic to read during my lunch break. And assuming I'm bringing my lunches to work, I won't have to spend time searching for food!
Lastly, there's my quiet time for prayer and bible study. Oh, how I've striven to get up early for that. I've failed almost every time. Or I'll do it for a day or two and then stop.
It makes a huge difference, though, when I'm able to do it in the morning before I start my day. There's a huge temptation to put it off to the evening, but then I know I'll get caught up in spending time with my hubby (after I do the dishes and make lunches, of course!) and there is only so much time after work!
So here 'goes! I'll get up a half hour early to spend time reading the bible and praying before I start my day.
I think I'll go a step further and make sure I have less to do in the mornings by cleaning up the night before instead of in the morning. It just makes sense to do as much at night to make the mornings easier and less hectic.
Talk about starting the day off right!
Monday, August 25, 2008
Extra income...or that one last straw?
I've decided, after my "boycotting goals week," that I should just focus on making my christmas presents and think about generating extra income next year. As in - After Christmas. As in - "pace yourself, honey, before your head explodes again." Have I mentioned my tendency to get obsessed?
So while my Etsy shop dreams are still a long way off, I'm just going to focus on getting Christmas presents made and developing my sewing skills, then I'll contemplate the cosmos and everything else deep and wonderful. One step at a time!
So while my Etsy shop dreams are still a long way off, I'm just going to focus on getting Christmas presents made and developing my sewing skills, then I'll contemplate the cosmos and everything else deep and wonderful. One step at a time!
Thursday, August 21, 2008
2009 Vegetable garden plans
I'd like to plant a vegetable garden next year but need take into account my limitations. We have .13 acre of land that our little house sits on (and a shed, three vehicles, canoe, trailer, clothesline, picnic table, oh - and the motorcycles we hope to buy). Not only the land limitations though, but my gardening experience. I planted a flower garden the year after we moved into our home. And then I left it to the weeds. My hubby weeded it out every now and again, but it's pretty much overgrown now.
I like to think I'll be better at it when I'm more purposeful about gardening, and looking forward to the harvest, but knowing me I need to have as low-maintenance garden as possible.
On the other hand, I'd like to plant and harvest my favorite veggies! I think it'll be fun as long as I don't get overwhelmed with getting behind in the weeding and watering, etc.
Now that I'm in the backyard every morning hanging my clothes to dry, I think it'll be harder to forget about my precious garden, but who can tell?
So without further ado, I'll list the veggies I'd like to plant next year and then another day we can analyse what's realistic...
sugar peas
spaghetti squash
garlic
jalapenos
tomatoes (all kinds)
basil
sage
potatoes
sweet potatoes
beets
carrots
gourds (just for fun!)
flax
lavender
horseradish
I like to think I'll be better at it when I'm more purposeful about gardening, and looking forward to the harvest, but knowing me I need to have as low-maintenance garden as possible.
On the other hand, I'd like to plant and harvest my favorite veggies! I think it'll be fun as long as I don't get overwhelmed with getting behind in the weeding and watering, etc.
Now that I'm in the backyard every morning hanging my clothes to dry, I think it'll be harder to forget about my precious garden, but who can tell?
So without further ado, I'll list the veggies I'd like to plant next year and then another day we can analyse what's realistic...
sugar peas
spaghetti squash
garlic
jalapenos
tomatoes (all kinds)
basil
sage
potatoes
sweet potatoes
beets
carrots
gourds (just for fun!)
flax
lavender
horseradish
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
One day at a time
Climbing back from goal-overload-explosion-land has been interesting. The last two nights were previously scheduled to be delivery nights for the furniture ministry at church and I'm really glad that's how I spent that time. It really helps you get past yourself when you see how others are living.
Tonight though: tonight it's about me. Well, it's about my mom's garden THEN it can be about me. Actually, I really need to clean the house before my in-laws come over this weekend for "a talk" (our request), so I need to tend my mom's garden while she's out of town, then clean my house, THEN it can be about me.
At that point, I think it's going to be about sleep.
But I do miss sewing. So I think maybe I'll darn some socks or make a few more hankies. Just something quick and simple to take my mind off lifestuff.
Tonight though: tonight it's about me. Well, it's about my mom's garden THEN it can be about me. Actually, I really need to clean the house before my in-laws come over this weekend for "a talk" (our request), so I need to tend my mom's garden while she's out of town, then clean my house, THEN it can be about me.
At that point, I think it's going to be about sleep.
But I do miss sewing. So I think maybe I'll darn some socks or make a few more hankies. Just something quick and simple to take my mind off lifestuff.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
how my lakeside weekend goals worked out
Let's see, I slept in both days, pitched in on cooking and cleaning up the campsite, but I didn't spend much time in the sun. Between cooking, cleaning up, packing up to get to the river, drifting down the river in the rain, getting back to camp, attempting a hot shower (which started out lukewarm and went downhill from there) and making dinner, there was not much time for sitting in the sun. I did, however make a conscious effort to relax and enjoy the leisurely pace of floating on the river. Making the best of it even through the rain.
I was good and did not do any journaling, job searching, crafting, business prospecting, spending, or reading.
I had to do some quick mending on the straps of my hubby's Teva's (beach sandals) so he could wear them in the river, but I'm not going to beat myself up about that!
I didn't do any menu planning until we were about an hour from home on the drive back.
Before we left Friday night, I did put some feelers out to a few people that I think might be interested in and/or good at taking over the two ministries I'm currently leading or coordinating. And while we were driving, I bounced ideas off my hubby about realistic lifestyle changes and some of the things that I've been thinking and writing about.
All in all, I think I struck a good balance this weekend of not dropping the ball on some things and not being so obsessed about everything else that it interrupted my "down time."
It was good. Very very good.
I was good and did not do any journaling, job searching, crafting, business prospecting, spending, or reading.
I had to do some quick mending on the straps of my hubby's Teva's (beach sandals) so he could wear them in the river, but I'm not going to beat myself up about that!
I didn't do any menu planning until we were about an hour from home on the drive back.
Before we left Friday night, I did put some feelers out to a few people that I think might be interested in and/or good at taking over the two ministries I'm currently leading or coordinating. And while we were driving, I bounced ideas off my hubby about realistic lifestyle changes and some of the things that I've been thinking and writing about.
All in all, I think I struck a good balance this weekend of not dropping the ball on some things and not being so obsessed about everything else that it interrupted my "down time."
It was good. Very very good.
Friday, August 15, 2008
My lakeside camping weekend goals:
Do nothing, except:
sleep in
pitch in on cooking and cleaning up the campsite
spend a lot of time sitting in the sun (if we get any)
Do no:
journaling
job searching
crafting
mending
business prospecting
spending (I have to stick with some things!)
reading
christmas planning
road trip planning
menu planning
thinking about any other future time/trip (just focus on this weekend)
planning of any kind
See, I was tempted to:
bring my laptop to search for a new job
brainstorm more ideas for generating more income and christmas gifts
work on some handcrafts
menuplan for next week
finish making arrangements for the furniture ministry deliveries next week
If anything, I may:
-put some feelers out to a few people that I think might be interested and/or good at taking over the two ministries I'm currently leading or coordinating.
-bounce ideas off my hubby about realistic lifestyle changes
sleep in
pitch in on cooking and cleaning up the campsite
spend a lot of time sitting in the sun (if we get any)
Do no:
journaling
job searching
crafting
mending
business prospecting
spending (I have to stick with some things!)
reading
christmas planning
road trip planning
menu planning
thinking about any other future time/trip (just focus on this weekend)
planning of any kind
See, I was tempted to:
bring my laptop to search for a new job
brainstorm more ideas for generating more income and christmas gifts
work on some handcrafts
menuplan for next week
finish making arrangements for the furniture ministry deliveries next week
If anything, I may:
-put some feelers out to a few people that I think might be interested and/or good at taking over the two ministries I'm currently leading or coordinating.
-bounce ideas off my hubby about realistic lifestyle changes
Thursday, August 14, 2008
More Ideas
This post is a cross between Christmas goals and Generating Extra Income goals. The more I plan for Christmas gifts, the more I think - why couldn't I sell those too? And the more I think of things to make to sell, the more people I think of to Give them to as gifts! (so cool how that works!)
Here are more things I've thought of to give and sell:
Blank greeting cards with my photos on the front (of course, with recycled-by-me paper)
Floppy Bears (Think bear rug but smaller. It'll have a stuffed head, stuffed paws and tail, but nothing inside the "body.")
Fabric stacking blocks (for baby)
Hand puppets
I know the list will keep growing and growing. I'm just thinking I should make the items for Christmas, then decide which are the least time consuming to make and focus on those.
Hm. So as for goals...
Make Christmas Presents and go from there?
No, not specific enough.
Hm. Make Christmas Presents, track how long each takes to make, and when all is said and done, choose 5 or 6 items to focus on making more of.
Here are more things I've thought of to give and sell:
Blank greeting cards with my photos on the front (of course, with recycled-by-me paper)
Floppy Bears (Think bear rug but smaller. It'll have a stuffed head, stuffed paws and tail, but nothing inside the "body.")
Fabric stacking blocks (for baby)
Hand puppets
I know the list will keep growing and growing. I'm just thinking I should make the items for Christmas, then decide which are the least time consuming to make and focus on those.
Hm. So as for goals...
Make Christmas Presents and go from there?
No, not specific enough.
Hm. Make Christmas Presents, track how long each takes to make, and when all is said and done, choose 5 or 6 items to focus on making more of.
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Goals at Work
I'm not proud of this, but I've fallen behind at work. Again. Could you see it coming? Blogging a few times a day, complaining about not liking my job...right.
So last night before I left work, I put together a priority list for catching up this week. This morning I got a bit of a rude awakening. I forgot it was billing week (for past due accounts.) Oi.
I took a deep breath (20 minutes ago), and re-structured my catch-up schedule, and decided a little accountability was necessary.
This may even be contradictory since I'm spending time I should be (let's see, what time is it?) processing patient billing right now, but I thought I'd log on again real quick to get this posted so I could perhaps guilt myself into better performance at work!! LOL
(in order of priority)
Catch up on non-cash postings
Finish aging
Catch up on appeals
Catch up on filing
Wednesday, August 13, 2008:
Print pt billing list,
10-12 Process Pt billing
12-1 Enter new checks & Log all new non-cash postings
1-2 Complete write offs
2-2:30 (Break) grocery shop for weekend food and fresh corn & cream of celery soup for tonight’s chicken noodle caserole
2:30-5 Finish logging all old non-cash postings
5-5:30 Check aging to see what aging claims are now covered
5:30-6 lookup and list phone numbers on aging where calls need to be made
***
Thursday, August 14, 2008
(***Whatever isn’t done last night, come in early to do today)
Address Aging
Enter checks
Log all new non-cash postings
Continue aging list
Friday, August 15, 2008
Continue working on the aging list
Enter checks
Log all new non-cash postings
Check follow-up list for any additional claims to be addressed
Check appeal list for any that have been resolved
Work on remaining appeals
Monday, August 18, 2008
Finish Appeals
Enter new checks
Log all new non-cash postings and process new appeals
File old RA’s
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Enter new checks
Log all new non-cash postings and process new appeals
Double check aging and follow up lists
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
File old RA’s and old eob’s
So last night before I left work, I put together a priority list for catching up this week. This morning I got a bit of a rude awakening. I forgot it was billing week (for past due accounts.) Oi.
I took a deep breath (20 minutes ago), and re-structured my catch-up schedule, and decided a little accountability was necessary.
This may even be contradictory since I'm spending time I should be (let's see, what time is it?) processing patient billing right now, but I thought I'd log on again real quick to get this posted so I could perhaps guilt myself into better performance at work!! LOL
(in order of priority)
Catch up on non-cash postings
Finish aging
Catch up on appeals
Catch up on filing
Wednesday, August 13, 2008:
Print pt billing list,
10-12 Process Pt billing
12-1 Enter new checks & Log all new non-cash postings
1-2 Complete write offs
2-2:30 (Break) grocery shop for weekend food and fresh corn & cream of celery soup for tonight’s chicken noodle caserole
2:30-5 Finish logging all old non-cash postings
5-5:30 Check aging to see what aging claims are now covered
5:30-6 lookup and list phone numbers on aging where calls need to be made
***
Thursday, August 14, 2008
(***Whatever isn’t done last night, come in early to do today)
Address Aging
Enter checks
Log all new non-cash postings
Continue aging list
Friday, August 15, 2008
Continue working on the aging list
Enter checks
Log all new non-cash postings
Check follow-up list for any additional claims to be addressed
Check appeal list for any that have been resolved
Work on remaining appeals
Monday, August 18, 2008
Finish Appeals
Enter new checks
Log all new non-cash postings and process new appeals
File old RA’s
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Enter new checks
Log all new non-cash postings and process new appeals
Double check aging and follow up lists
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
File old RA’s and old eob’s
Christmas Gift Progress
I have #1 completed (list everyone I'll be making a gift for this year). Not only that, I listed everyone I'll be sending a card to this year as well. We haven't done that in about 3 years because it just sneaks up on us! Plus, I'm not highly motivated to do it because I find it's just an unnecessary detail. More of an obligation. And so expensive.
But I'm making my own paper this year, so there! We're not sending them to everyone we've ever met, just 45 homes. Most of that is family and probably 7 or 8 friends.
For gifts, I have 21 gifts to make. 6 of which could be consolidated (couples). So that would be 18, but I'm not counting out the possibility of making 21.
The next step for this goal is to brainstorm gift options for each of them. That's a lot of brainstorming!!
I also stumbled upon the Handmade Holiday 2008 flickr group tonight! What timing, huh?! Check it out, we share photos and ideas, encouragement, etc in our plans and efforts to make this holiday season a handmade!
But I'm making my own paper this year, so there! We're not sending them to everyone we've ever met, just 45 homes. Most of that is family and probably 7 or 8 friends.
For gifts, I have 21 gifts to make. 6 of which could be consolidated (couples). So that would be 18, but I'm not counting out the possibility of making 21.
The next step for this goal is to brainstorm gift options for each of them. That's a lot of brainstorming!!
I also stumbled upon the Handmade Holiday 2008 flickr group tonight! What timing, huh?! Check it out, we share photos and ideas, encouragement, etc in our plans and efforts to make this holiday season a handmade!
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Christmas Gifts Goals
I took the Buy Handmade Pledge, and I intend to keep it! Except I intend to actually "do the making" myself! The pledge says "I pledge to buy handmade this holiday season and request that others do the same for me."
I want to include cards in this. I snagged a paper making kit at a yard sale this summer for a dollar, so I'm going to make my own paper. My hubby and I started making our own cards a few years ago, so we'll continue doing that with the stamping supplies we've collected.
I'm putting this in my goals list because from previous experience, I know it takes more time to make some (many) gifts than it does to go out and purchase them. As a long-time cross-stitcher, I have given many pieces as gifts. There are also many pieces that I've MEANT to give as gifts, that didn't get done in time!
So, I'm going to start now, to ensure that I have a stress-free December!
Christmas Goal/Plan:
1.) List everyone I need/want to make a gift for.
2.) Brainstorm gift ideas for each person.
3.) Make "final" decisions on gift choices.
4.) Decide how much time to allow each gift to be made.
5.) Schedule gift-making.
6.) Determine what materials will need to be purchased for these gifts.
And while we're talking about scheduling, let's make sure I don't take three months to do the preceding 6 steps!
My goal is to have a Christmas Gift Plan defined and in place, (on my planner) by the end of this week (August 16th).
I want to include cards in this. I snagged a paper making kit at a yard sale this summer for a dollar, so I'm going to make my own paper. My hubby and I started making our own cards a few years ago, so we'll continue doing that with the stamping supplies we've collected.
I'm putting this in my goals list because from previous experience, I know it takes more time to make some (many) gifts than it does to go out and purchase them. As a long-time cross-stitcher, I have given many pieces as gifts. There are also many pieces that I've MEANT to give as gifts, that didn't get done in time!
So, I'm going to start now, to ensure that I have a stress-free December!
Christmas Goal/Plan:
1.) List everyone I need/want to make a gift for.
2.) Brainstorm gift ideas for each person.
3.) Make "final" decisions on gift choices.
4.) Decide how much time to allow each gift to be made.
5.) Schedule gift-making.
6.) Determine what materials will need to be purchased for these gifts.
And while we're talking about scheduling, let's make sure I don't take three months to do the preceding 6 steps!
My goal is to have a Christmas Gift Plan defined and in place, (on my planner) by the end of this week (August 16th).
Among other things,
I want to find ways of MAKING more money. I don't want to get a part time evening and weekends job, because I don't deal with stress well and I don't deal with not having down time well and that just negates that, doesn't it? LOL
So I've been kicking around the idea of making up some baby stuff for fall craft fairs and such, but I don't want to be limiting myself to craft fairs, much less spending an entire day in a crowded, noisy gymnasium with half a million crazy-stressed women. Sorry, just not my bag.
I've also been kicking around the idea of starting an Etsy shop. That Really Scares Me. (TRaSeMe - like trace me) But I think I'm going to do it! I'm going to make up some items between now and the end of August, see if some of my more objective friends think they're good enough, and start an Etsy Shop if it's a go.
The only other thing that holds me back is that I'm terrible at customer service. I could say "I'll have to work on that," but I think I recall saying that before! (And it didn't happen!)
Well, I have until the end of August to mull it over (and pray about it.)
So, as for a goal, I'd like to have made one each of the following by the end of the month:
-Burp Cloth
-Bib
-Baby Blanket
-Blanket Square (corresponding to blanket)
So I've been kicking around the idea of making up some baby stuff for fall craft fairs and such, but I don't want to be limiting myself to craft fairs, much less spending an entire day in a crowded, noisy gymnasium with half a million crazy-stressed women. Sorry, just not my bag.
I've also been kicking around the idea of starting an Etsy shop. That Really Scares Me. (TRaSeMe - like trace me) But I think I'm going to do it! I'm going to make up some items between now and the end of August, see if some of my more objective friends think they're good enough, and start an Etsy Shop if it's a go.
The only other thing that holds me back is that I'm terrible at customer service. I could say "I'll have to work on that," but I think I recall saying that before! (And it didn't happen!)
Well, I have until the end of August to mull it over (and pray about it.)
So, as for a goal, I'd like to have made one each of the following by the end of the month:
-Burp Cloth
-Bib
-Baby Blanket
-Blanket Square (corresponding to blanket)
-Purse
-Clutch
-Cooling Eye Mask
-Beaded lace necklace
I already have the bib partially made, the burp cloth in my mind, I have the plans for the blanket and square that I made previously so just need to duplicate, I made the eye masks years ago (but gave them all away so will just need to duplicate) and have started the beaded necklace. I also have the pattern for the purse and clutch I've been meaning to make for myself for two years, as well as the materials. YeHe! I'm so excited!
Answers Found
Last night I acknowledged that I don't have an answer to the question of balancing paying down debt and building up savings. (Scroll down to #7) I did a little digging over at Trent's site The Simple Dollar (a magnificent resource! I knew I'd find it eventually over there if I looked hard enough!) Comparing Apples to Oranges: Saving Ahead Versus Paying Down Debt was exactly what I was looking for, and I really didn't have to look that hard! This is actually more of an explanation, as the backstory, and here is another article of Trent's that addresses the same issue. I especially liked this article, which provided a priority list of sorts.
1.) spend less than you earn
2.) establish the emergency fund
3.) save for retirement
4.) eliminate debts
My hubby and I have it all backward. We both have great retirement funds set up, but other than that we've neglected living within our means and building up the emergency fund as well as eliminating debt (obviously - by not living within our means!!)
This is also a great way to establishing a structured overal debt payment plan.
And this will help me stay on track!!
So I have three financial (savings) goals right now. Trent says it's better to have only one financial goal at a time, and I agree with him, but two of these goals are time-sensitive. Actually, one is time sensitive, the other is a false urgency of mine. I REALLY want to get a small motorcycle. I reason that it will help me save on gas, but I really just want to start riding now that I have my license. *Sigh* the truth hurts sometimes, doesn't it? So the bike will be on the bottom of my totem pole of priorities, but it's still there!
So, the three Savings goals (in order of priority) are:
1.) Emergency fund. Building up 3 months worth of my current gross salary within two years.
2.) Travel fund. Save for travel expenses that we'll incur in 3 months when we visit our new niece or nephew. This will involve at LEAST airline, possibly car rental and maybe hotel expenses. My SIL's parents have offered to house us, but I'm not sure how my hubby will react to that. Hmmm. I need to communicate better, don't I? (This SIL and I both married into the family, so her parents aren't MY in-laws). Before I have a definite goal, I'll need a definite amount to save for. But I'll start anyway!
3.) Motorcycle Fund!!! LOL... I hoped to purchase a bike for myself this fall figuring they'd be selling pretty cheap as people are debating whether they want to store them for another winter or not, but I may have to wait until spring when I can save more for it and not be strapped for cash for my trip.
1.) spend less than you earn
2.) establish the emergency fund
3.) save for retirement
4.) eliminate debts
My hubby and I have it all backward. We both have great retirement funds set up, but other than that we've neglected living within our means and building up the emergency fund as well as eliminating debt (obviously - by not living within our means!!)
This is also a great way to establishing a structured overal debt payment plan.
And this will help me stay on track!!
So I have three financial (savings) goals right now. Trent says it's better to have only one financial goal at a time, and I agree with him, but two of these goals are time-sensitive. Actually, one is time sensitive, the other is a false urgency of mine. I REALLY want to get a small motorcycle. I reason that it will help me save on gas, but I really just want to start riding now that I have my license. *Sigh* the truth hurts sometimes, doesn't it? So the bike will be on the bottom of my totem pole of priorities, but it's still there!
So, the three Savings goals (in order of priority) are:
1.) Emergency fund. Building up 3 months worth of my current gross salary within two years.
2.) Travel fund. Save for travel expenses that we'll incur in 3 months when we visit our new niece or nephew. This will involve at LEAST airline, possibly car rental and maybe hotel expenses. My SIL's parents have offered to house us, but I'm not sure how my hubby will react to that. Hmmm. I need to communicate better, don't I? (This SIL and I both married into the family, so her parents aren't MY in-laws). Before I have a definite goal, I'll need a definite amount to save for. But I'll start anyway!
3.) Motorcycle Fund!!! LOL... I hoped to purchase a bike for myself this fall figuring they'd be selling pretty cheap as people are debating whether they want to store them for another winter or not, but I may have to wait until spring when I can save more for it and not be strapped for cash for my trip.
Monday, August 11, 2008
A deeper look at personal finance
Tonight I am setting aside time to address the questions I brainstormed this afternoon.
1.) Stoping the creation of debt.
In other words, no more credit card purchases. But it goes even deeper than that, like addressing #3 - finding ways to spend less. But in order to avoid stopping the creation of debt, I think the one basic element that needs to happen is to take out the credit card and take out the scissors and just do it.
Yes, I'm that serious, and no, I didn't plan that.
2.) Paying down debt.
Establishing a set minimum amount to pay to the credit card (yes, I only have one) instead of just whatever is left over. Making that a priority instead of an afterthought.
Let me explain why I only have one credit card and yet why I'm so anxious to address this spending issue. I've been in debt a number of times and I always get out of debt by refinancing the mortgage. Then a few months later, I slide back into debt. I don't want to continue that cycle. First of all, I'm essentially paying for it every time I make a mortgage payment for the next 30 years, and secondly - I'll never learn to budget if I just rely on the credit card, then get a quick/easy fix down the road. What will that teach any children I might have? Third, for everything that I don't pay for up front, I'm essentially going to be paying WAY more than sticker price for.
3.) Finding ways to spend less.
I'm really excited about brainstorming ideas for this. I've already implemented quite a few ideas here and there.
I'm making my own laundry detergent and saving an average of 10 cents per load. Actually, it's more dramatic if you understand that I used to pay 14 cents per load and now I pay 4 cents per load!
I've also set up a clothes line using materials I already had. Unfortunately, it's been raining for weeks on end, so I haven't had the opportunity to use it yet! I am, however, hanging things in my basement/laundry area on a folding rack when I have the opportunity to do so.
A tip I found a few weeks back was to fill empty liter bottles with water and put them in your toilet tank. This will essentially allow you to use less water when you flush. I was a little concerned that less water would be less effective and sometimes require two flushes, but so far that hasn't happened. I actually fit two 1-liter bottles in my tank so I'm able to save that much more on each flush.
I've taken the Wardrobe Refashion Pledge which is basically to not purchase any newly manufactured clothing. You can buy new fabric, and shop for clothes at thrift stores, or make your own clothing.
I've taken this a step further and decided not to purchase any new fabric.
In addition, I declared August as Stash Month for me with a $20 budget for things like thread. Essentials. Strictly Essentials. So far I haven't used any of it.
I also took the Buy Nothing Challenge because I found I was spending money on things I really didn't need at thrift stores. Great, it's a thrift store, but please. Let's be sensible about it! Another reason for this is that I have limited space and I'm quickly running out of it!
Other areas I can really improve on are with food.
I've started menu planning. That will help a lot, I think.
Also, sticking to the list and not making impulse buys.
I also started a price book much like Jenn's.
We're also switching to Basic Cable.
I would like to find a lower cost alternative high-speed internet (lower than $60 a month.)
I'd also like to find an inexpensive motorcycle so that I can save on gas on my daily commute.
I've begun watching the way I drive, staying at the speed limit and implementing some hypermiling techniques to help save on gas as well.
I also took the "Buy Handmade" pledge, which is to purchase only handmade gifts this holiday season. Except I intend to actually "do the making" myself!
I've stopped buying paper napkins and paper towels. I cut up two old t-shirts of my hubby's which keep us well stocked in kitchen rags instead of paper towels and I pulled out the cloth napkins that have been stored in the linen drawer for the last 8 years and put them to use. I also stopped buying kleenex which I use quite a bit since I have year-round allergies. I made up a bunch of hankerchiefs and am really happy with them.
I also stopped buying household cleaners and instead use some more cost-effective alternatives like equal parts water and vinegar for glass cleaner.
I need to stop buying coffee in the morning, as well as the breakfast sandwich or donut that goes along with it.
I also need to stop buying lunch out. Even if it is on the dollar menu! This is going to require making lunches and prepping breakfast and coffee the night bfore.
Actually, just eating healthier will save money. I cut out ice cream last month and I KNOW that's resulted in a savings of about $20 per week! Yeah, I bought Ben & Jerry's at $4+/pint EVERY workday. Plus Edy's for the house. That's not as expensive, but it adds up too. That's $80/month of food budget! (As if there was a budget!) Since unhealthy often is also unnecessary, what other unhealthy foods do I eat that I can cut out? Chips, soda,
We're also not eating out. That's such a waste of money! (Except for lunches. Oi.)
I'm trimming my own hair and my hubby's using the razor during the summer.
I'd like to look into making my own skin care products. I have pretty sensitive skin, so it may be a lot of trial and error, but I'd like to try it anyway.
Decorate and rearrange with found objects.
Turn off the TV when it's just background noise.
4.) Identifying things I spend money on that are not essentials.
Fabric
beads
any crafting materials
specialty coffees
cosmetics
fast food
air conditioning
seltzer water
5.) Identifying times that I am emotionaly-spending. (Like emotional eating.)
This is going to require just becoming more aware and realizing that it's happening before it's too late (before I get to the checkout!)
6.) Brainstorming ideas for combating emotional spending.
I think this happens most often on my lunch breaks. I have a hour long break and work on what I call "Retail Row." It's four miles of retail and fast food. So convenient! Not.
A better use of this time could be journaling the cause of my emotionalism and working on my reading list!
7.) Explore "paying down debt vs. establishing savings."
There's the balance between building up emergency savings and putting everything you can into paying down debt. Where do you find that balance? (I simply don't have the answer here.)
8.) Establish timeline/plan with clear dates for paying down debt and establishing savings.
I'd like to have three months worth of my salary in my emergency savings within two years. Is this realistic? I don't know. Am I going to try it? Heck yeah.
9.) What am I saving for? (Goals to keep me focused and motivated, reminding me what I'm working towards.)
Emergency Savings
Travel Fund (So I can meet my niece or nephew in November!)
Motorcycle
10.) Do I have a false sense of security? (Am I using my credit card as a safety net?)
Absolutely. But not anymore.
11.) What is a realistic emergency savings goal? (How much per month?)
I'll start out with what I established above, but monitor it as I go along.
12.) What is a realistic monthly budget? (considering maintenance costs for vehicles, house, etc. that don't come up every month and usually take us by surprise.)
I'm going to have to start using the Quicken product I purchased a year ago to track expense with an eye on maintenance and surprise costs.
13.) Identifying budget busters. When/why do I have expenses that take me by surprise and how can I avoid this element of surprise in the future (and make room in the budget for them.)
gifts
food for parties
So to recap:
-I need a good financial planner including taking into account special events.
-I need to stop impulse buys
-I need to find a lower cost alternative to high-speed internet
-I need to save for an older model motorcycle
-I need to continue watching the way I drive
-I need to prep coffee, breakfast and lunch the night before
-I need to find recipes for skin care products
-I need to turn off the Air Conditioner during the day when we're not home
-I need to continue the wardrobe refashion, stash month and buy nothing new challenges after August is over
-I need to be aware of emotional spending and stay away from temptation when I'm prone to do so, such as reading or journaling at lunchtime instead.
-I need to remember that I'm saving for our emergency fund, a motorcycle, and the opportunity to travel down south to meet the newest addition to our family once he or she arrives!!
-I need to consistently update quicken and monitor maintenance costs on both the vehicle and the house.
-I need to remember to anticipate costs such as for parties and family gatherings.
1.) Stoping the creation of debt.
In other words, no more credit card purchases. But it goes even deeper than that, like addressing #3 - finding ways to spend less. But in order to avoid stopping the creation of debt, I think the one basic element that needs to happen is to take out the credit card and take out the scissors and just do it.
Yes, I'm that serious, and no, I didn't plan that.
2.) Paying down debt.
Establishing a set minimum amount to pay to the credit card (yes, I only have one) instead of just whatever is left over. Making that a priority instead of an afterthought.
Let me explain why I only have one credit card and yet why I'm so anxious to address this spending issue. I've been in debt a number of times and I always get out of debt by refinancing the mortgage. Then a few months later, I slide back into debt. I don't want to continue that cycle. First of all, I'm essentially paying for it every time I make a mortgage payment for the next 30 years, and secondly - I'll never learn to budget if I just rely on the credit card, then get a quick/easy fix down the road. What will that teach any children I might have? Third, for everything that I don't pay for up front, I'm essentially going to be paying WAY more than sticker price for.
3.) Finding ways to spend less.
I'm really excited about brainstorming ideas for this. I've already implemented quite a few ideas here and there.
I'm making my own laundry detergent and saving an average of 10 cents per load. Actually, it's more dramatic if you understand that I used to pay 14 cents per load and now I pay 4 cents per load!
I've also set up a clothes line using materials I already had. Unfortunately, it's been raining for weeks on end, so I haven't had the opportunity to use it yet! I am, however, hanging things in my basement/laundry area on a folding rack when I have the opportunity to do so.
A tip I found a few weeks back was to fill empty liter bottles with water and put them in your toilet tank. This will essentially allow you to use less water when you flush. I was a little concerned that less water would be less effective and sometimes require two flushes, but so far that hasn't happened. I actually fit two 1-liter bottles in my tank so I'm able to save that much more on each flush.
I've taken the Wardrobe Refashion Pledge which is basically to not purchase any newly manufactured clothing. You can buy new fabric, and shop for clothes at thrift stores, or make your own clothing.
I've taken this a step further and decided not to purchase any new fabric.
In addition, I declared August as Stash Month for me with a $20 budget for things like thread. Essentials. Strictly Essentials. So far I haven't used any of it.
I also took the Buy Nothing Challenge because I found I was spending money on things I really didn't need at thrift stores. Great, it's a thrift store, but please. Let's be sensible about it! Another reason for this is that I have limited space and I'm quickly running out of it!
Other areas I can really improve on are with food.
I've started menu planning. That will help a lot, I think.
Also, sticking to the list and not making impulse buys.
I also started a price book much like Jenn's.
We're also switching to Basic Cable.
I would like to find a lower cost alternative high-speed internet (lower than $60 a month.)
I'd also like to find an inexpensive motorcycle so that I can save on gas on my daily commute.
I've begun watching the way I drive, staying at the speed limit and implementing some hypermiling techniques to help save on gas as well.
I also took the "Buy Handmade" pledge, which is to purchase only handmade gifts this holiday season. Except I intend to actually "do the making" myself!
I've stopped buying paper napkins and paper towels. I cut up two old t-shirts of my hubby's which keep us well stocked in kitchen rags instead of paper towels and I pulled out the cloth napkins that have been stored in the linen drawer for the last 8 years and put them to use. I also stopped buying kleenex which I use quite a bit since I have year-round allergies. I made up a bunch of hankerchiefs and am really happy with them.
I also stopped buying household cleaners and instead use some more cost-effective alternatives like equal parts water and vinegar for glass cleaner.
I need to stop buying coffee in the morning, as well as the breakfast sandwich or donut that goes along with it.
I also need to stop buying lunch out. Even if it is on the dollar menu! This is going to require making lunches and prepping breakfast and coffee the night bfore.
Actually, just eating healthier will save money. I cut out ice cream last month and I KNOW that's resulted in a savings of about $20 per week! Yeah, I bought Ben & Jerry's at $4+/pint EVERY workday. Plus Edy's for the house. That's not as expensive, but it adds up too. That's $80/month of food budget! (As if there was a budget!) Since unhealthy often is also unnecessary, what other unhealthy foods do I eat that I can cut out? Chips, soda,
We're also not eating out. That's such a waste of money! (Except for lunches. Oi.)
I'm trimming my own hair and my hubby's using the razor during the summer.
I'd like to look into making my own skin care products. I have pretty sensitive skin, so it may be a lot of trial and error, but I'd like to try it anyway.
Decorate and rearrange with found objects.
Turn off the TV when it's just background noise.
4.) Identifying things I spend money on that are not essentials.
Fabric
beads
any crafting materials
specialty coffees
cosmetics
fast food
air conditioning
seltzer water
5.) Identifying times that I am emotionaly-spending. (Like emotional eating.)
This is going to require just becoming more aware and realizing that it's happening before it's too late (before I get to the checkout!)
6.) Brainstorming ideas for combating emotional spending.
I think this happens most often on my lunch breaks. I have a hour long break and work on what I call "Retail Row." It's four miles of retail and fast food. So convenient! Not.
A better use of this time could be journaling the cause of my emotionalism and working on my reading list!
7.) Explore "paying down debt vs. establishing savings."
There's the balance between building up emergency savings and putting everything you can into paying down debt. Where do you find that balance? (I simply don't have the answer here.)
8.) Establish timeline/plan with clear dates for paying down debt and establishing savings.
I'd like to have three months worth of my salary in my emergency savings within two years. Is this realistic? I don't know. Am I going to try it? Heck yeah.
9.) What am I saving for? (Goals to keep me focused and motivated, reminding me what I'm working towards.)
Emergency Savings
Travel Fund (So I can meet my niece or nephew in November!)
Motorcycle
10.) Do I have a false sense of security? (Am I using my credit card as a safety net?)
Absolutely. But not anymore.
11.) What is a realistic emergency savings goal? (How much per month?)
I'll start out with what I established above, but monitor it as I go along.
12.) What is a realistic monthly budget? (considering maintenance costs for vehicles, house, etc. that don't come up every month and usually take us by surprise.)
I'm going to have to start using the Quicken product I purchased a year ago to track expense with an eye on maintenance and surprise costs.
13.) Identifying budget busters. When/why do I have expenses that take me by surprise and how can I avoid this element of surprise in the future (and make room in the budget for them.)
gifts
food for parties
So to recap:
-I need a good financial planner including taking into account special events.
-I need to stop impulse buys
-I need to find a lower cost alternative to high-speed internet
-I need to save for an older model motorcycle
-I need to continue watching the way I drive
-I need to prep coffee, breakfast and lunch the night before
-I need to find recipes for skin care products
-I need to turn off the Air Conditioner during the day when we're not home
-I need to continue the wardrobe refashion, stash month and buy nothing new challenges after August is over
-I need to be aware of emotional spending and stay away from temptation when I'm prone to do so, such as reading or journaling at lunchtime instead.
-I need to remember that I'm saving for our emergency fund, a motorcycle, and the opportunity to travel down south to meet the newest addition to our family once he or she arrives!!
-I need to consistently update quicken and monitor maintenance costs on both the vehicle and the house.
-I need to remember to anticipate costs such as for parties and family gatherings.
Reading
My reading list is growing. Mostly because I haven't been reading! Here is my current 2008 reading list.
I started the boundaries book about a year ago. Obviously I need to set goals in order to make some progress on my list!
After thinking about it, I've decided to make a flexible goal to finish a book every two months, but making sure I've recorded insights and personal growth along the way. I don't want to just rush through this reading for the sake of completing a goal.
I'll also monitor my progress every Monday. That way I won't be caught at the end of two months and say - oh well, maybe next time I'll have done more. I'm serious about wanting to read these books, and look forward to learning and growing from them.
Therefore, my Reading Goal is to finish the Boundaries book by the end of August (since it's halfway done already) and move onto the next book in September and October.
I started the boundaries book about a year ago. Obviously I need to set goals in order to make some progress on my list!
After thinking about it, I've decided to make a flexible goal to finish a book every two months, but making sure I've recorded insights and personal growth along the way. I don't want to just rush through this reading for the sake of completing a goal.
I'll also monitor my progress every Monday. That way I won't be caught at the end of two months and say - oh well, maybe next time I'll have done more. I'm serious about wanting to read these books, and look forward to learning and growing from them.
Therefore, my Reading Goal is to finish the Boundaries book by the end of August (since it's halfway done already) and move onto the next book in September and October.
Personal Finance
The first area I want to establish goals in is with spending money. It seems as though our lives can be divided down to two categories - time and money. I won't limit myself to these two categories, but it's a point made that our finances are a major element in our lives. The almighty dollar. Money is what makes the world go 'round, right? Maybe not, but sometimes it sure feels that way.
It's becoming more and more apparent that I need to establish and stick to (and monitor) my budget. It helps that I get paid once monthly (I work in a company with 7 employees and my boss hates doing payroll, so does it only once a month) therefore establishing a monthly budget should be fairly easy. Right?
Well, have I kept to it? No. I've found myself using my credit card more and more at the end of the month. Though, over the last few months I've become more and more aware of that and have taken small steps to curb that spending.
So as I think about goal setting in the financial area of my life, there are a few things I want to think about:
1.) Stoping the creation of debt.
2.) Paying down debt.
3.) Finding ways to spend less.
4.) Identifying things I spend money on that are not essentials.
5.) Identifying times that I am emotionaly-spending. (Like emotional eating.)
6.) Brainstorming ideas for combating emotional spending.
7.) Explore "paying down debt vs. establishing savings."
8.) Establish timeline/plan with clear dates for paying down debt and establishing savings.
9.) What am I saving for? (Goals to keep me focused and motivated, reminding me what I'm working towards.)
10.) Do I have a false sense of security? (Am I using my credit card as a safety net?)
11.) What is a realistic emergency savings goal? (How much per month?)
12.) What is a realistic monthly budget? (considering maintenance costs for vehicles, house, etc. that don't come up every month and usually take us by surprise.)
13.) Identifying buget busters. When/why do I have expenses that take me by surprise and how can I avoid this element of surprise in the future (and make room in the budget for them.)
I'm curious what other people would consider when sitting down to establish a budget or financial plan like this.
It's becoming more and more apparent that I need to establish and stick to (and monitor) my budget. It helps that I get paid once monthly (I work in a company with 7 employees and my boss hates doing payroll, so does it only once a month) therefore establishing a monthly budget should be fairly easy. Right?
Well, have I kept to it? No. I've found myself using my credit card more and more at the end of the month. Though, over the last few months I've become more and more aware of that and have taken small steps to curb that spending.
So as I think about goal setting in the financial area of my life, there are a few things I want to think about:
1.) Stoping the creation of debt.
2.) Paying down debt.
3.) Finding ways to spend less.
4.) Identifying things I spend money on that are not essentials.
5.) Identifying times that I am emotionaly-spending. (Like emotional eating.)
6.) Brainstorming ideas for combating emotional spending.
7.) Explore "paying down debt vs. establishing savings."
8.) Establish timeline/plan with clear dates for paying down debt and establishing savings.
9.) What am I saving for? (Goals to keep me focused and motivated, reminding me what I'm working towards.)
10.) Do I have a false sense of security? (Am I using my credit card as a safety net?)
11.) What is a realistic emergency savings goal? (How much per month?)
12.) What is a realistic monthly budget? (considering maintenance costs for vehicles, house, etc. that don't come up every month and usually take us by surprise.)
13.) Identifying buget busters. When/why do I have expenses that take me by surprise and how can I avoid this element of surprise in the future (and make room in the budget for them.)
I'm curious what other people would consider when sitting down to establish a budget or financial plan like this.
Goals: Essential Elements
I've realized lately that goal setting is so important, and such a missing link in my life, that I'm dedicating a blog just to establishing and developing goals in all areas of my life. Most posts will be linked to my main blog "How to Grow: a perspective in life change."
I really want to explore this idea and practice of goal setting though. In 2001 I joined a direct sales company and was constantly inundated with goal setting techniques and reasons why it was so important. Since I left that business in 2005 I've just sort of worked my 9-6 job and lived my life from day to day, month to month, paycheck to paycheck, and so on.
As I focus more and more on growth and developing character, I realize that goals are an essential missing element in my life.
I really want to explore this idea and practice of goal setting though. In 2001 I joined a direct sales company and was constantly inundated with goal setting techniques and reasons why it was so important. Since I left that business in 2005 I've just sort of worked my 9-6 job and lived my life from day to day, month to month, paycheck to paycheck, and so on.
As I focus more and more on growth and developing character, I realize that goals are an essential missing element in my life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
