After reading The Year of Less by Cait Flanders, I decided to begin my own journey of reducing my spending and becoming more intentional with money. My hope is to share a weekly check‑in here — not because I’ll do this perfectly, but because consistency, honesty, and reflection are part of how real change happens.
Some parts of this have been surprisingly easy. Others? Not so much.
But this week felt like a really important step forward, and I wanted to share an honest check‑in on where I am, what I’m learning, and how my mindset around money is shifting.
Conscious Spending in Real Life
One of the first boundaries I set was allowing myself two to‑go coffees per month.
Today, I used my first one.
I had a terrible headache and debated whether it was worth it — and ultimately decided yes. I wanted to enjoy it without guilt, and that alone felt like a breakthrough. Intentional doesn’t mean deprived; it means aware.
Grocery Wins, Lessons, and Gratitude
This week I shopped directly from the grocery ad to save money.
My goal is around $300 per week, and I’ll be honest — I went over and spent $373.
While that felt uncomfortable at first, here’s what really matters:
- I bought enough meat to last us about a week and a half
- We already have dinner in the crockpot tonight (saving time and money)
- I used $15 in coupons
- My store card saved me over $104
That perspective shift changed everything.
Instead of seeing “failure,” I see progress, strategy, and learning.
I still need to grab Coca‑Cola since it wasn’t on sale at this store, and I’ll check another store where it is — another small, intentional win.
Small Purchases with Big Intention
I did use some Christmas money to buy an electric blanket.
I’ve been debating it for a while because I’m always cold, and while I don’t know yet if the investment will be fully worth it, I chose it thoughtfully instead of impulsively.
That alone feels like growth.
What This Check‑In Taught Me
- I am becoming more aware of where my money is going
- I am learning to plan instead of panic
- I feel more empowered and less stressed
- I trust that God provides and that this is all figure‑out‑able
The mindset work I’ve been doing is changing everything.
Money no longer feels like something happening to me — it feels like something I am learning to steward with faith, wisdom, and intention.
Final Thoughts
This is not about perfection.
It is about progress, awareness, and alignment.
I am learning to live with less so I can live with more peace.
And that feels like real abundance.