FINANCE: 52 Week Money Challenge

52 Week Money Challenge

 

This is all over Pinterest.  For my purposes I did it the other way around and did the countdown.  It is easier for me to put away more money a week in the beginning of the year than it is in November/December because that is usually when I am spending for those unplanned parties, forgotten last minute gifts and so on.

 

I have an empty coffee (washed and dried).

I cut a slit on the lid then super glued the lid on.  (so no one is tempted to take money out)
On the outside (I took the coffee label off) 
I printed the spreadsheet taped it around the can (I customized to countdown from 52)
I tied a ribbon with a highlighter on the end to mark the week # so I can keep track as I deposit the money.

So we shall see during my Reflection on how well I do with this.  (I have actually been doing it for 3 weeks now). And so far, I am staying on track!

 

The Plan

I have decided to break down my 365 days to different focus points which I plan to touch on each month.  Mainly to help me focus, but I figured also this way I don’t get so overwhelmed.

I guess it also serves as a list of what’s to come.

FOCUS POINTS:

Money Issues – Budgeting, Frugal Ways, Planning
Stress Management – Meditation, Relaxing techniques
Staying Focused – Setting Goals, Lists, Making Plans
Family – Positive Communication, Family Time, Creating Memories
Health – Staying Fit, Doctors, Medical Stuff
Staying on Track – Create new Habits, Looking in the Mirror
Summer – Activities, Pool, Safety
Changes in Life – Moving on
Anger Management – Positive Communication, Icebergs, Resilience
Organization – Not quite the Spring Cleaning, Getting Ready for the Holidays
Crafts – Holiday crafts, Gifts
Holidays – parties, family, memories
Reflection - How well did I do?  Did you take on challenges with me?  How did you do?

 

 

 

The Beginning

     

365 Days To A Better Me.

Hmmm… sounds like one of those New Year’s resolution things that will only be around for a month (two if that).

Well, this is not going to be one of those.  I say that because I have put my whole self into this project and there is a reason to my madness.  Don’t we all have some kind of way to justify to ourselves and our loved ones whenever we decide to venture of to some new crazy madness?

MISSION (What?):  For the next 365 days, document through journal, self evaluation, reader’s/follower’s assessments, a progressive change in my life.

REASON (Why?):  (HMMMM… Because I want to!)  Honestly, this upcoming year is a year of milestones for me, so why not document it.   I will soon be retiring from my 20 years of service with the Armed Forces.  I am searching and will hopefully start a new career.  My oldest child will be graduating from high school. 

PURPOSE (What for?):  Mainly, I want to be able to look back this same time next year and say, “wow, I did it and I did it well!”  I also hope that along the way, I will reach readers who will provide advice, support, maybe some creative criticism should be expected; but I also hope that somewhere along the way I will inspire or help someone.

So, here it goes! Please come join me on my journey.