$10 in my pocket

It's one of those rare moments of panic that we don't have enough money...

It's a known fact that Mr. Jang and I are here on a meagre package from his company. We know that such opportunities to see the world, to work in another company, to stay in a place other than home is rare.

There are certainty no regrets in coming to US. We are not staying in the dumpsters. We managed to rent a small but cosy flat in a nice and safe neighbourhood. We bought a car from a friend at a cheap price. We have enough to eat and enjoy the occasional restaurant treats and road trips. We go to the outlets to hunt for good bargains - often lured by the discounts and buying more than we should!

We have enough to get by. But today, as I was doing case files for the volunteer work, I was suddenly hit by a sense of panic. It suddenly dawned unto me that I haven't been earning money for half a year. The last I checked my US bank account, I only have around $2000 to get by till the end of the year. That works out to be less than $10 a day.

I'm silently scolding myself for not being more thrifty. What happened to my disciplined 5 euros/day life as a French student? What happened to the buy-only-if-you-absolutely-need-it-and-choose-the-cheapest-option principle?

Enough with this senseless spending. I will get back on track with my good habits of a budget life.

Rule #1: REALLY?? YOU NEED IT?? - You have enough bags, wallets, clothes shoes.
Rule #2: REPLACE [DESIRED] WITH AN ALTERNATIVE - Need something? Think of the stuff at home and see if you can substitute it with what you have. Applies to clothes all the way to cooking sauces.
Rule #3: REDUCE CARBON - Yes. Surprise! Read in natural light, jog in the sun, walk to destination if you have time. All are zero cost.

I realised that I spent the most when I have visitors. Not just because I eat out more often, I also tend to shop whenever they shop - that's a killer! I must, must, must remind myself that while it's Ok to spend on new experiences such as sightseeing, I must stop the bad habit of shopping like a tourist.

Thrifty spender. REBORN.