How my self-imposed spending hiatus became a necessity

At the beginning of the year I decided to go on a little spending hiatus. I've seen several bloggers who do this, and after Christmas/beginning of the New Year seemed like a great time to try it.

I did it for a couple of reasons. The first one is probably pretty obvious - December is a huge spending month for us, as I'm sure it is for most people, and after the regular gift giving among our friends and families, plus hosting a Christmas party for about 50 people, I decided that we could use a little extra savings for a couple of months.

But while saving money is always a good thing, the second reason was really more important to me. I want to teach myself to be happy and content with what I already own. This is hard.

Imposing this spending hiatus right after Christmas is probably kind of a cheat because I had just received lots of gifts, including some new clothes, a few things for the house, and the most beautiful pair of earrings for my birthday. But...it is amazing how quickly I become dissatisfied.

For the months of January and February, I was in control of my spending. (Ok, I did buy one $20 vest from Old Navy, but that was it!) I was disciplined. Because it was my choice. I was choosing not to spend.

Then things took an interesting turn. At the beginning of March, I left my job (which is another story that I won't get into here). Suddenly, my spending hiatus wasn't just a choice anymore. It became a necessity.

Still for another month or so, I was fine with it. I didn't need new clothes because I ran my errands in jeans and t-shirts. I didn't need to go out for lunch because I was already home with a full fridge. But most of all, I still viewed the spending hiatus as a challenge.

Until April. And the warm weather. And the cute spring clothes in every store. The thing is, I really believe that if this spending hiatus was still my own choice, it would probably be easier not to spend...that whole challenge aspect, right? But it's not a choice anymore...and I don't like it.

I think the first step to be content is to be thankful. I have a comfortable home with air conditioning and heat. I sleep in a warm bed every night with a man who I adore and trust completely. I never have to worry about where my next meal is coming from, and I when I want to go somewhere, I just grab my keys and go. These are luxuries I too often take for granted.

Beyond that, I don't have a breakthrough solution (yet). But I'd like to regularly share about my personal experience with budgeting, saving money, and the constant struggles I face with this "new" lifestyle. (Like when I just want those really cute Steve Madden pumps, and right now, too!)