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

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[quote=Anonymous][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]

Many people here have crumbled from way less (PEOPLE WANT ME TO TAKE MY SHOES OFF IN THEIR HOUSEEEEEE) so I admire your strength and hopeful outlook and wish you and your family much success and happiness. [/quote]

1. get vouchers for your children's daycare, your child support is NOT included as income (that's optional, so don't claim it)
2. always call ahead when you see utilities going unpaid, they will put you on a plan
3. go to a social service agency and see what they can offer you, programs, money, low-income housing options that are not public housing
4. go to churches for free summer camp, or speak very early to community camps that charge
5. move from Goodwill to other thrift stores, preferably in wealthy areas. They donate THE BEST stuff!!
6. try you very best at your job, then get another one with good references and a great track record. You need more income!

Sending strength and blessings your way. I love the way you are holding it down, despite the challenges!! In a year, things could look entirely different. Hold onto that determination and hope. You got this!![/quote]

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