Every day decisions impact your lifetime outcomes
When Nate and I got married 15 years ago, we had a LOT of school and credit card debt (over $50,000). We weren’t making much money as Resident Directors at Liberty University; approximately $17,500 a year. Thankfully we received free housing and a meal stipend that helped offset our expenses.
We decided early on that we were going to make WISE financial decisions and pay off that debt as SOON as possible. We lived very minimally and worked side jobs to pay it off within our first few years of marriage. I cleaned houses and Nate worked at our local church leading worship. It wasn’t easy telling people “no” when they wanted to go to the movies (we did visit the dollar theater though) or out to eat at the newest restaurant in town. We shared a car and rarely bought new clothes/shoes/accessories unless it was absolutely necessary.
Sticking to a budget was one of the most important things we did early on and living below our means. We asked each other about EVERY purchase, even a candy bar! It was exciting to see the debt wiped out and gave us the ability to focus on bigger goals.
We did set aside money for one thing we both enjoyed and that’s travel! We have been fortunate to visit over 30 countries in our 15 years of marriage and make lifelong memories. We don’t do extravagant trips, but have ways to do it inexpensively or with credit card points.
I wanted to share this picture with you because so often people think that a $5 cup of coffee (or more these days) isn’t that big of a deal. BUT when you add up the numbers over time, it can make a HUGE difference in your lifelong outcomes. You should put a budget in place early on and stick to it! It might mean having accountability, living by Dave Ramsey’s system, or something else…but you have to make a choice to make wise financial decisions and start investing!
I promise it will pay in the long run and you will be SO glad you did!