We live well below our means. And we like it that way! Here's how we've found we can be happy on a budget:
1. Prioritize. Being frugal doesn't mean we never buy anything or that we only buy the cheapest stuff. Rather, it means we've decided what's important to our family and our spending reflects that. I loved what Rachel, over at Small Notebook, had to say about how lattes and expensive toilet paper can be compatible with frugality.
2. Be intentional. We try to avoid impulse purchases. And when it comes to big-ticket items, we give ourselves plenty of time to think about it. We purchased a couch last summer and it's still kind of hard for me to believe we paid as much as we did. But we spent months shopping, comparing prices, and trying to decide if there was any way to spend less and still be pleased. In the end we decided that this was an instance where quality and functionality justified spending more.
3. Have a bigger goal in mind. Without a vision or a larger purpose it's hard to feel like there's a good reason for not buying that shiny new toy. It's much easier to deny ourselves the little things when we can look ahead to the more important benefit. For us, the bigger focus is me being able to stay home with our kids and paying down our mortgage early.
4. Recognize the difference between needs and wants. It helps us to keep in mind that we really do have everything we need (when so many others don't). An attitude of being thankful for life's simple blessings really does keep us from being discontent about what we don't have. For a great break-down between true needs and wants, check out this post.
Frugality looks different for every family. How do you make your budget work for your household?
If you're looking for more frugal inspiration, head over to Biblical Womanhood for Frugal Friday.
P.S. I'll be back here on Saturday posting pics of the progress with our seedlings. See you then!
