I’m a
huge fan of the emergency fund. Last year, we wiped ours out as our oldest kiddo had multiple ER visits while at college. That said, it didn’t cover everything so I’m hopping back on the train to dump the debt.
First off, it doesn’t embarrass me to admit I failed and am back in debt because I know how much I’m in this time. Some of the debt was emotional spending. Other was necessary. But before, I just put my fingers in my ears and ran amok. I know how long it’ll take for me to right the ship.
2024 goals
1. Keep my Discover set to pay in full each month. I have monthly costs set up on this card, like propane delivery, internet, utilities. It’s a small cash back but it’s useful. I treat it like a tiny coupon
2. Build back up emergency fund. I have $100/month started for now. And that’s not enough, but I’ve done this before and know that it’s a start. I need the debt gone first.
3. Pay off $3k in debt. Not a ton, but it stares back at me. I’ll knock it out by May at the latest, being super conservative with my estimates in case the kiddo has more medical expenses. I love this card because it’s allowed said kiddo flights home over the years on points.
4. Make 2 extra car payments. That’s a lofty goal for us. Back we don’t have a vacation this year (have to move kid from college so we kinda counting that). Hoping that’ll help us knock this down.
5. Expand side hustle flower business. Wish me luck in this one, as I approach a couple of businesses this week to sell my cut flowers that I grow. Last year, the flowers paid for themselves. This year, I’d like to make money. And I have trays of tulips started for Valentine’s Day.
6. I also have a book publishing in March and want to market it well for Mother’s Day sales. I need to start that this week, too.
7. Personal: Practice contentment. It’s easier as I get older but I still need to get better.
8. Personal: finish two incomplete manuscripts. Believe me, I have more, but I would like to finish these two, along with the ones I’m under contract for.
I’m sure I’ll adjust and add or modify. That’s how I roll. I have to remember to be kind to myself in regards to budgets or I’ll go backwards. And no one wants to go backwards unless you’re on Slinky Dog.