It’s hard to believe that another year has gone by and that 2010 is just around the corner. And while I run around taking advantage of the post-Christmas sales, I still can’t help but think about all of the things that I want to accomplish in the upcoming year (and, unfortunately, all those that I didn’t accomplish this year). And if you’ve gotten to know me at all, you’re probably not surprised to learn that all of my New Year’s resolutions revolve around saving more money in the upcoming year (and hopefully the year after that…and the year after that…).
In my book, however, a New Year’s resolution is about setting specific goals for yourself- not just stating the obvious and hoping for the best. “I’m going to lose 10 pounds this year” will likely more successful than just saying that you’re planning on losing weight this year. For this reason, I always make New Year’s resolutions with concrete goals. Here is my list for 2010:
- Save more money on groceries by giving up my penchant for certain brands and buying what’s on sale- with coupons. I’m curious to see if I’ll find new brands to favor, or if I’ll even mind that I gave up my favorite brands. I look forward to sharing the process with you.
- I’m going to freeze my gym membership (yes, underneath my crisp white shirt are abs of steel) and begin working out at home. I’ve even found the perfect place to purchase quality used exercise equipment. I’m curious to see if this will affect my motivation, toning and overall exercise experience. I could just change to a cheaper gym, but I’m looking to save more money- and I think this may be the way to do it.
- My final New Year’s resolution is to join an online DVD rental service instead of shelling out money for the movies. I am hoping that I can enjoy more films for less money, since a night out at the movies is getting to be an expensive habit. I’ll be able to save on refreshments, gas, (sometimes parking) and the actual price of the movie (which also often includes an additional ticket for a guest).
My goal is to save at least $160/month by making these (hopefully) minor changes to my lifestyle. If I reach this goal, I will have saved at least $1920…not too bad considering the fact that I’ll still be doing all of the things I love (just a bit differently). I plan on chronicling my journey throughout the year, to provide tips, tricks and inspirations to others who may also want to save more money. If you have any other New Year’s resolution challenges that you plan on taking on, I’d love to hear them!
Happy Contemplating,
Billy
