Every money win is a win, no matter how small. We do a phenomenal job celebrating huge financial milestones. We post, we tweet, we share. Some of us even have dedicated debt-payoff GIFs that we send to others.
::cough cough::
She’s adorable. And so excited. I can’t help it!
But the smaller money moments can go largely unnoticed. And that’s a problem. It seems like people are paying off their debt over night. Our love of clickbait headlines does little to dispel that notion.
But it’s simply not true.
Rome wasn’t built in a day. Your debt won’t be paid off in one either.
Debt payoff stories are hugely inspiring. But they can also feel intimidating, overwhelming, or just downright impossible. Getting your money mind right can be one of the most mentally and emotionally taxing habits we build. To keep that momentum going, it’s time to learn to celebrate along the way. To kick things off, let’s get the virtual confetti ready for Kate, Revanche, and Melody!
Kate from Goodnight Debt
What is your money win?
I have been selling the clutter around my house. With the thought that the money to acquire these things is already spent and gone, I’ve been funneling any recouped dollars into a single account. I didn’t have the money before, and now I “still don’t.” It all goes directly into an investment account so my old age self can benefit.
Why are you pumped?
I’m pumped because its wins all around. I have less stuff around my house, I’m learning new skills in the world of selling, all while funding a big goal.
What can people learn from it?
Clearing clutter doesn’t have to be a negative chore. It can be used as an opportunity to learn new skills and fund new dreams.
Revanche from A Gai Shan Life
What is your money win?
I saved $2000 in credit card rewards that I nearly lost out of carelessness and letting “too busy” get in the way.
Why are you pumped?
I worked SO hard to make Chase cough up the points I had rightfully earned in the first place and I’m counting on these points to fund our travel for the next 18 months.
What can others learn from it?
It’s always worth pleading your case politely.
(Pssst. If you are ever in need of some instant money mojo, Revanche created #1GoodMoneyThing. So much virtual confetti on Twitter!)
Melody from Broke on Purpose
What is your money win?
I made sure I was paying myself second (I pay my tithes first). By doing this I ensured that I wouldn’t be getting scraps which allowed me to put more in my savings without feeling guilty about the money not going towards debt.
Why are you pumped?
I’m pumped because this is the first year I’m actually going to max out my Roth. I’ve done one every year but it’s never been my main focus. This year it’s at the very top of my to do list. If we can pay off $100K of debt in a little bundle 3 years this should be a cake walk.
What can others learn from it?
Others can learn that it’s okay to not put all your money towards your debt. There are other ways to build wealth and while having no debt is a great position to be it doesn’t automatically mean you’re ready for life after debt. I am a firm believer that people should store for a famine while enjoying a feast. If you’re bringing in extra money, what’s the harm in tucking a little bit away for your retirement?
Final Thoughts on Money Wins
It’s true that debt-free screams might be heard the loudest, but that doesn’t mean other money wins don’t matter. They do! Sell things you don’t need and bank the profits. Send an extra email or make an extra phone call to get what is owed to you. Pay your obligations, and always, always pay yourself out of each paycheck. And don’t forget to celebrate yourself while you’re at it!
Whether you are a blogger or a reader (or both!), if you would like to be part of the money win series, I’d love to share your story. Answer the questions and shoot me an email at shepicksuppennies (at) gmail (dot) com. You can also find me on Twitter (it’s my mortgage-free second home!). If you already sent me your details, you’ll be featured soon! Hooray for money wins!
Britt @ Tiny Ambitions
I love that you are celebrating small(er) money wins. They are so much more relatable and seem more achievable than debt-free or mortgage free wins. My small money win this week? Managing to make dinner last night out of the scraps in our cupboard from moving so we didn’t have to buy dinner out for the 5th night in a row. Major, major win.
Sarah @ Couple of Sense
Good stuff!! We ate out so much when we moved that I was craving salads by the end of the process.
Mrs. Picky Pincher
Yay for everyone!!!!!!! So happy for you ladies!!
I guess my small win would be that we upgraded from a 1.5% to a 2.5% cashback credit card. We pay it off every month and use the rewards to give more generously during Christmas. We’re shaping up to have a good chunk of money for the holidays! I love me a debt-free Christmas. 🙂
Laura
Excellent tips on staying focused, even if it’s focusing on the little things! It all adds up eventually 🙂
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Simon | Vistafolio.com
What a great article! I agree, invest a bit along the way so your money can work a bit for you rather than just going out the door.