my SPEND LESS 2025 GUIDELINES ✨
hey y’all and happy 2025!!! so my one of my main resolutions this year is to be more mindful of how much money I’m spending and on what so I made myself some guidelines! this is inspired off of the “buy nothing” challenge but made more realistically tailored to my lifestyle!
so my allowed list are things that I won’t deprive myself of, but should still be mindful of ofc. I have an extensive and consistent skincare routine that works very well for me so skincare products as well as my Haircare products like shampoo and hair oil and of course soap and body scrub and the like will be allowed as long as I’ve previously run out of all current product. I’m also an avid reader and am required to read lots of books not only for my enjoyment but to make posts for you all, so kindle books will be allowed once my previous is finished. I’m in the process of quitting vaping currently, so things like stop smoking gum although expensive, will always be allowed so I don’t go back to smoking as that was a goal of mine for so long and I’m almost there! this should be finished up by February anyway so it shouldn’t be a thing for too much longer. My pre existing Netflix and Spotify subscriptions and things like it will be kept, and taxis and Ubers will be allowed as I don’t drive and I need a way to get around when my partner or parents aren’t around to give me rides. I’m getting married this year so wedding planning stuff isn’t going to be included in this challenge as that’s inherently expensive and half of the reason I wanted to cut my spending back. haircuts and eyebrow waxes are cheap in my opinion at my chosen establishments and they give me confidence so those will be allowed, and I will continue to dye my hair once a year for maintenance purposes. magazines and coloring books are also hobbies of mine so once all previously owned are finished I will allow myself to get one more. lastly but certainly not least, I will get my nails done once a month for confidence and self care purposes.
My other rules category is made for things that don’t fit into just allowed or not allowed, so I made budgets and limits to them in order to keep costs lower. food wise, groceries will be allowed for 100$ a week but of course I’m going to do my best to make them stretch, I also won’t lie I’m pretty addicted to food delivery and takeout so my goal is to get this down from 4-6 times a week to twice a week maximum not only for financial reasons but for health purposes as well. I will allow one maximum monthly experience such as dinner with friends or a small tattoo, and a maximum of $250 a month for “gardening”purposes. Once a season, I’ll allow myself a 100$ allowance for clothes and twice yearly one pair of shoes at a max of $150 (most should be much lower than this). Finally, for birthdays and holidays that require gift giving, I will have a $50 a person budget. This is to prevent myself from going overboard like I have in the past and to challenge myself to make more homemade gifts.
Aside from anything else previously mentioned, I will not allow myself to buy anything else.
Let me know your thoughts down below, open to questions and suggestions!!
#2025intentions #budgeting #nobuylist #savemoneyhacks #lemon8partner
As 2025 unfolds, taking control of your finances becomes increasingly important. Mindful spending allows you to distinguish between wants and needs, helping you to budget effectively. Start with creating a list of allowed purchases such as hygiene and skincare essentials, while limiting non-essential items. It's crucial to track your grocery expenses—set a weekly budget and meal prep to minimize waste and save money. Instead of dining out frequently, consider preparing meals at home to maintain health and financial goals. Additionally, engage in hobbies that are cost-effective to sustain your mental well-being without overspending. Explore creative DIY projects for gift-giving rather than succumbing to lavish purchases, and embrace homemade gifts or experiences as special alternatives. Gardening can be a rewarding hobby that requires a specific budget, ensuring it remains a delightful part of your life without financial strain. When tackling temptations like shopping sprees, consider a monthly limit for experiences, which can enrich your life while keeping your finances in check. Encourage friends to join you in your spending challenge, supporting each other through creativity and resourcefulness. Stay committed to your spending resolutions, and reassess your budget regularly to adapt to changing needs. Mindful spending isn't just about restrictions; it's about making empowered choices that reflect your values and lifestyle in 2025!
Time to get those savings up! You have a good game plan. I need to stick to my 🍃gardening🍃 budget cause I be spending and smoking wayyyyyy too much 😭