And so it Begins...
Today is Ash Wednesday- The Beginning of Lent and of things given up. And although I'm non- denominational Christian, and not Catholic, I still partake in Lent every year. 2 Years Ago it was Chocolate. Last year I barely made it through the 40 days without Bread. And this year..
CREDIT CARDS.
I honestly have an unhealthy habit of using them for everything... which is not so good when you're on a budget. Because I'm going to need to track my savings, I'll be brining my lunch every day to work. I won't be buying songs on itunes. My spontaneous and frequent trips to Starbucks will lessen. And I definitely won't be partaking in any retail therapy after a hard day at work. I think this will be my toughest challenge yet... and I thought no bread was hard. Thank goodness the price of gas is somewhat down for now!
In addition to the credit cards, I've also decided to give up soda. I always give up something food related so I guess it's a comfort thing :) I will miss you DP!
If I were giving these up for myself, I know I probably wouldn't make it the complete 40 days. I'd tell myself that I deserve the soda or that a credit card really is the only option. But since this is for God, I feel a stonger accountability for my actions. Wish me luck on my new budget oriented and sodaless lifestyle! :)
Image Source: 1 & 2
CREDIT CARDS.
I honestly have an unhealthy habit of using them for everything... which is not so good when you're on a budget. Because I'm going to need to track my savings, I'll be brining my lunch every day to work. I won't be buying songs on itunes. My spontaneous and frequent trips to Starbucks will lessen. And I definitely won't be partaking in any retail therapy after a hard day at work. I think this will be my toughest challenge yet... and I thought no bread was hard. Thank goodness the price of gas is somewhat down for now!
In addition to the credit cards, I've also decided to give up soda. I always give up something food related so I guess it's a comfort thing :) I will miss you DP!
If I were giving these up for myself, I know I probably wouldn't make it the complete 40 days. I'd tell myself that I deserve the soda or that a credit card really is the only option. But since this is for God, I feel a stonger accountability for my actions. Wish me luck on my new budget oriented and sodaless lifestyle! :)
Image Source: 1 & 2
Giving up credit cards will totally change the way you spend your money -- I promise! I have never liked using credit cards because your spending can so easily get out of control. I have always tried to stay in the habit of paying off my balance each month, but now that we're budgeting even more with hubby's unemployment, I try to stay away from the plastic entirely. It is really eye-opening to be so much more aware of your spending when you're strictly using cash or debit.
ReplyDeleteGood luck!
Bravo! Especially since you're doing it for God.
ReplyDeleteI have to ask...I am a non-denominational Christian as well...however, I have never really understood Lent. Do they even talk about it at your church?
Brooke I used to be like you too. I payed off the balance on my credit cards every month for 5 years, and then because of circumstances at the time- I switched and have never gone back- until now. I'm a bit intimidated but ready for the challenge. Thanks for the encouragement!
ReplyDeleteLA- Thanks so much. They don't talk about Lent at my church either. My mom, although Christian now, grew up Catholic and has always has given up something for Lent. I started joining her about 10 years ago. Lent represents the 40 days Jesus was in the desert being tempted by Satan. Lent is practiced a few different ways. Many people start on Ash Wednesday, today, and go until the Saturday before Easter. Each Sunday I think they let themselves have what they've given up. My mom and I give our things up completely from today until Easter.
you inspired me to give up my credit cards as well, for everything except wedding purchases (because I just can't get by for now without that). I still pay 80% of my balance every month...but it will be interesting to see what I have to sacrifice to make it to pay day!
ReplyDelete80% is great already and good for you! I'm excited to have someone going through the challenge with me! :)
ReplyDelete