Reply to Spinoff: How do you live below your means?

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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]Following.

I do not live below my means but I aim to. I've been intermittently employed since last summer, and just started working after being out of work for four months. Now I earn 37k and get child support for two children that equals about 12500 a year. I left my marriage last year with no savings and used a credit card to establish myself. I have 42k in student debt and 29k in credit card debt. I also totaled my car a week ago so have to get a new one (no reliable public transport in my area)  - hoping to use tax return to buy it.

Here's my breakdown:

Rent - 600
Food/toiletries/cleaning supplies - 400
Daycare - 540
Preschool - 360
After school sitter (daycare/preschool close earlier than when I finish work) - 500
Before and after care for preschooler - ~100
Phone - 93
Gas - ~100
Electric - ~100
CCs and student loans currently in deferment

Here's what I do:
-For work clothes, bought at Goodwill and in the clearance section at TJ Maxx 
-Only buy sale food at the grocery store and plan, plan, plan to eliminate waste. My job provides lunch and so does the baby's daycare. 
-Library and walks/hikes/playgrounds are exclusive sources of entertainment (as well as having friends over/going to friends houses) 
-it goes without saying, but we do not eat out!

I feel a bit squeezed at the moment. My water's been cut off due to my not paying the bill (obviously). I just got my first paycheck Friday so will pay them Monday on my lunch break. I'm behind paying my daughter's preschool. It's stressful!

I am lucky that neither I nor my children have any medical issues nor need medication. I am lucky that I am strong and resourceful. I am so lucky to have supportive and caring friends. I am lucky to have an education and ambition and valuable soft skills that will enable me to advance professionally.

I know that a year from now things will look very different.

Anyway, thanks for the inspiration both to become better off and to stay careful with money.[/quote]

I will be rooting for you![/quote]

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