In this step Trent recommends creating reminders of your goals and values in light of your expenses as well as reevaluating various areas of your life to help support your goals. I really appreciated several of his points.
Reevaluating social situations: I have had to learn that not having any money doesn’t mean we don’t have a social life. We’ve been getting better at inviting friends to our home for a simple meal and a board game or movie. Since we are blessed to have family members nearby who will baby-sit for free, we have been able to accept invitations to others’ homes without having to pay a babysitter.
Engage in inexpensive activities that match your life goals: I’ve continued to be active in my writer’s group and my husband has also joined. This has been a great opportunity for us to explore our creative sides and also spend time together on something not involving our daughter.
Use the 10 second rule: My father taught me an expanded version of this known as the two week rule. He would think and pray for two weeks about a purchase, especially an expensive one. This is especially hard when the item seems to be “such a good deal.” I have not always adhered to this as much as I would like. My dad’s perspective is that in most cases there will always been another sale, another deal, another opportunity. Waiting two weeks gives you the perspective to decide if the purchase is a wise financial move and if it will really add value to your life.
Live what you love: I have not always done this. I want to spend more time of my days doing the things that really matter to me and working towards my primary goals.
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