“Fancy” Finances

So after Drake dropped “Fancy” we all feel the need to live up to those lyrics right? From clothes to shoes to what bag we carry on our right arm….Hmm try again girls. Yes, living a fabulous lifestyle is simply awesome BUT let’s not forget life is not a music video nor are our finances.

Let’s face it, being fabulous on a part time retail gig may be a bit difficult (trust me, I’ve been there!). Especially working at a hot clothing boutique, you may not be able to pay mortgage with your checks BUT the 50 percent employee discount gives your heart full content! The only problem is that those bi-weekly checks just seem to miraculous disappear and somehow every new clothing arrival has found its way to the front of your closet. With all these magic tricks of turning your check into clothes you manage to do one last trick. In all this mix your savings has not moved an inch from when your mother put the 200 dollars to start as a spring board to get your own personal account rolling. Poof!

Ok, so I get it ….you’re thinking “Save for What?” No rent, no gas bill, no car note, no electric bill and you didn’t even know there was a bill for water (it’s not like Fiji is running from the faucet.) The only bill you may be aware of care about is your cell phone bill. So your current weekly budget consists of at least 3 new outfit , hmmm gas money for your car( but your mom’s bp card is always there, so scratch that) & your cell phone. Other than that, you’re good to go. Ok, let me let you guys in on a secret these budget plan habits will have you on a corner looking very fly with nowhere to lay your head at night if you keep this up though your older age.

Three quick tips to let your savings grow and your closet go on a diet….

Just Say “NO”- Ok, yes I know media deeming the word “Shopaholic” as if it’s a  cute new career choice. Well, they lied. In reality having every designer piece of clothing and no savings to fall back on is not the hot look of the season! Have a priority list every time you receive your check so you’re not buying up the world. Maybe one week you snag those jeans you wanted and say “No” to the rest of the outfit. Save at least 20-30% if your check. It may not seem a lot now but believe me it will add up.

Non-Negotiables– Not only in dating you should have your non-negotiables but in finances too! Now, when you first receive your check you should have a list with the breakdowns of departments you need to pay. For example it can be easy Your list can be…1. Tithes 2. Savings. 3. Phone Bill. Now you know that every month that these are your non-negotiables. No matter what, these items need to be paid. From here you can base your budget of what you need.

DON’T FORGET ABOUT “Moi”–   Savings are important but don’t forget about yourself either. You don’t necessarily have to buy everything but you  can turn your savings into a rewards program for yourself. Once you reach your savings goal you set  tell yourself you are going to treat yourself to those strappy, animal print stilletos you’ve been spying. This causes you to motivate yourself to stay on track.

“Remember the Lord your God, for it is He who gives you the ability to produce wealth.”
Deuteronomy 8:18

Miracles & Blessing,