I went to work today and a colleague told me to get rid of my shoes( ballet pumps)... When I asked why, I was told they old fashioned and the stores have newer stock. There is absolutely nothing wrong with the pair I own. I will not be bullied for "outside eyes" I am clean and well put together. Thank you Kindly Jane and Mike. Your advice is well received
I have been debt free for a year. 2023 is a no spend year for me. I took inventory, made a list of 10 things I am not buying this year. If I want something new, I shop my closets, shelves, or cupboards. Knowing I have an emergency fund and sinking funds set up brings such peace of mind. Thank you for sharing all of your guidance and good sense.
We have finally made it after almost 40 yrs of frugality, working 2-4 jobs and raising our 4 kids to spend money the way we want. We have paid off house, full emergency fun, fully funded vacation fund etc.. no debts at all. We don’t feel guilty now to eat out, get a cup of coffee or go on a great vacation cuz we have earned it and have saved for it. This is what freedom and sacrifice look like for us . Love your videos ❤
Same with us, we worked hard saved our money, we have decent pension so we enjoy life. We are not overly extravagant but we are not squeezing the toothpaste too tube either.
Yes, the same for us. We don't have debt or a lot of expenses. We spend money on things we enjoy now that our kids are grown and we're retired. We downsized and are getting rid of things we don't need so we can spend less time maintaining "stuff".
Only 2 generations from the Great Depression here in the States. How soon we forget:( My husband and I live very similar to you and yours. People think we are odd and don’t understand our choices. 10 years ago we got off the hamster wheel of crazy consumption. Learning to be content is not only a skill but a great character trait as well. Brilliant video!!!
I was at the bank to roll my mom’s CD over to another at a greater interest rate. We were talking about my $. The investment manager asked me if I had any debt. No! Do I have any needs. No! Do I have any dreams. No. I just want to be left alone to sew, knit, crochet, garden, and be with my husband. My solar panels and I are very happy together! What else could a person want? 💙
We now save 30% to make up for lost time. In the last three years we have started serious savings, paid off the car, paid off the mortgage and got a healthy emergency fund. You’ve been very encouraging along the way, thank you it is changing our lives. Today when we went shopping we stuck to the list, only bought what was budgeted for, paid and left (no coffee even) and didn’t hang around. You can change your mindset x
Jane you’ll get a kick out of this. Last weak our stove finally died and had to be replaced. I researched what I wanted and we went in to purchase it. The sales person tried his best to convince me that I should buy the whole suite because”it increases the value of your house when all of the appliances are the same make and match “. It took him a while to understand “No thank you” and then looked at me like I had two heads when I started to negotiate price. It took almost walking out several times but we got a great deal in the end. Although after finally agreeing on the price they were shocked to learn we didn’t want to finance it! What you said in your video is spot on! Take care!
I had the same thing happen 3 weeks ago. Both my 17 yrs old refrigerator and washing machine both decided to die. So, I researched the best price/reviews and appliances for my needs. I went to the store, cash in hand for both, and I believe the salesman was shocked. He looked at me like I was a unicorn. My son and I removed the old appliances and replaced them with the new ones. 😮 Now that was super heavy work, but we did it in 3 hrs...for free.
I have been amazed at seeing people I know still spending like crazy . Being frugal has left me pretty lonely, but I have to live this way. I have listened to hurtful comments, and now no longer hear from most “friends” I had. I keep busy working and gardening and taking care of my home. I hope someday to “find my tribe” I am grateful for online groups like this one, but in person contact is missing. Someday😊
Folks are taking your decisions personally, as in they know they should be making better choices but aren't and feel bad about it, so they are picking apart YOUR choices. So really it's not about how they feel about you, but how they feel about themselves.
I had eight tops in my wardrobe ,all too small, never worn ,threatened by my GP with statins and metformin ( I said no thank you I will lose some weight ) , now three stone lighter, normal blood sugar cholesterol fine, off blood pressure meds and wearing all eight tops and less money spent on food, especially pasties and doughnuts so win win :)
Christinewright92,, wow, great for you, I hope you are still doing well,sometimes a little change in our diet/lifestyle can improve our life in many ways.
We downsized from a 3 bed house to a 2 bed bungalow (which we turned into a 1 bed) in 2021. Honestly best choice we ever made, our bills are a fraction of what they once were, my husband can walk to work and mines only a mile away when it used to be 12 miles,major saving on fuel for us both. Downsizing is the way forward !
@@FrugalQueeninFrance we also downsized and I'm loving not having to clean a whole house !! our mortgage will be paid off next year, the rental pays our living expenses, remember the old adage about eating cat food lol who can afford cat food nowadays !!
I am an administrator for NHS...I job I love. What I struggle with is acrylic nails! Everyone in the building has them, but not me. I'm not gonna give in to it! Each to their own. Great video again...thank you :)
I am blessed with strong nails, and have always, painted my own - nude for work, and weekends are unpainted, unless we have one of those special trips out for a wedding or such like.Always dyed my own hair too, as its long, and I did try going to the hairdressers when I was transitioning to a lighter colour, but it was so nauseating to me to spend a whole morning in a hot hairdressers!
Please don’t do it. They ruin your nail beds. Have twice had them done as ‘gifts’ I didn’t ask for. Instead, Use the money to buy a funky new ‘ordinary ‘ nail varnish, clear top coat, emery boards and indulgent hand cream for an at-home manicure treat.
Those nails can breed nasty bacteria in all the little crevices. Ive heard some horror stories of nurses caring for vulnerable babies and passing on some nasty bugs with disasterous consequences. I wouldnt want to eat food cooked by someone with acrylic nails.
My savings throughout y year goes to a plane ticket to visit my family in another state. I can no longer drive the distance due to age. The pennies add up and I save a little. Holding my three year old grandchild makes it all worth the sacrifice. Lifeblood and love is irreplaceable. Thank you and God bless you for all the helpful information.
We were blessed to put new cabinets in our kitchen 25 years ago. People have told me its time to replace because the finish is the wrong color. Never! Ill keep these beautiful cabinets as long as i live here. Im very THANKFUL for them! I read youre now expected to replace your kitchen cabinets every ten years. Oh please.
I hit my breaking point a year ago. I watched your videos, learned a TON and got myself on a budget that works for me! I save 1/3 of my monthly income and live on 2/3. My family thinks I’m nuts. They say things like … ‘ why are you depriving yourself?’ I don’t feel deprived at all … truth is I’m more free now than I’ve ever been!!!! Do I still have debt …. Yes …. But I’ve also got a plan …. And I’m motivated all the time to keep at it because the prize of a debt free life is so worth it to me!!
Ahh you are expressing exactly how I feel. Me too, I'm still cleaning up past mistakes, but I feel so free already not using credit anymore!!! Since March, I had so many unexpected and large expenses, but I was able to cashflow them with patience and strategy. I'm proud of myself!!
Congrats your doing a fab job, having a plan makes all the difference. Keep going the more debt you get rid of the better you will feel. Im debt and mortgage free and was told im a miser. This was someone who rents who s in massive debt, no job and no future. Who has no money, but buys takeaways regularly and has to buy designer clothes and food. Mad
Thanks Jane another spot on post. I found I’m spending less by doing more at home. My house is cleaner & less cluttered. Eating simple meals, trying to go meat free several days a week also helps cut the budget. I’m enjoying trying to be frugal as I can see the benefits, less debt,less worry. 🤗💐💐
Just started a no buy year. I was spending money for all the wrong reasons and not saving enough. And I have enough stuff. Am going to practice gratitude the coming 12 months and not buy any clothes, cosmetics and make-up. I have plenty. Time to stop shopping. Thank you Jane and Mike for the inspiration on this channel!
I've never been a spender. Always had to watch every penny. Now that I'm alone it is easier. I have my budget, pay my bills, savings and groceries. I made this year a no spend year. So far so good. It is so freeing. I can't do anything about inflation but I can plan for it and be prepared. Grocery prices keep rising but I eat simple meals and get creative. I do not feel deprived at all. It worth all the work and effort!!
You will be so glad you are careful with your money now when you retire later. People don’t quite get that what you money waste now won’t be there ( with interest) when you retire or when you hit a bump in the road. Good job!
When my mother in law, then my mom died seeing 60+ years each of stuff cost many thousands of dollars to fill dumpsters. They both loved their stuff. Both always buying and wanting more. Then to see it all trashed because no one wants your beloved items. This wasteful cycle of buying really hit me hard. I have a new way of looking at my possession. I am trying to use what I have, get rid of what I no longer want/need and really evaluate every item I bring into my home.
Great video! Thank you Jane and Mike! If any of my family members don’t “understand” what I doing I just tell them it’s a game I like playing! They usually don’t say much more. It’s true I play a game of trying to see if there are more ways of not wasting money. There is so much freedom and contentment in being debt free!
I have one handbag. It was a gift nearly 20 years ago bought by a friend at a Native American Powwow. I repair the strap every once in awhile if it gets frayed. ❤ I still love it immensely. ❤
This is kind of how I feel. I have friends who are complaining they are sinking fast, but have just booked a £3000 holiday and are still loading up their trolleys in the supermarket with expensive branded products that they could afford to miss for a bit. It just boggles the mind!!!!
Really sound, frank advice. As far as prepping goes, i differ slightly in my view. Prepping can either be a shopping frenzy of excess, as you suggest, or it can be a money-saving technique. Now that i have one year stock of nonperishables, I'm buying groceries once or twice a month, using my stored foods, replenishing my stock and saved myself one year's worth of inflation. Prices will continue to rise, so it works for me as a money saving strategy. I do think it requires discipline. Peace of mind and "preparedness" is just a convenient side effect. We're very blessed to be debt free, and i applaud you for teaching the importance of taking charge of your spending and saying "enough is enough!"
“ Once upon a time” frugality was the norm and folks were proud to be so. Then came tv, mass media and advertising for Ll the stuff you didn’t know you needed...and folks took to being led around like a bull with a ring in his nose...all I can say is wake up people...We do not find frugal living difficult and have all we need and some of the ‘would be nice to haves’ and continue to save in retirement more than 10% each month. One fo the greatest assets is learning to do things yourself as much as possible. Thanks Jane and Michael from Susan
Not only does inflation keep going up, but the quality of good keeps getting drastically worse. In several different categories. And many of them are now designed so we cannot repair them ourselves. Like my cellphone battery for instance, and also my vacuum belt. Never in my life have I not had the option to simply change a battery myself.
Being frugal is fun. Being frugal makes me feel safe in these crazy times. The excitement of watching a sinking fund grow, while having time to throughly research to ensure that you are buying the correct product. The security in knowing that your car tax, car insurance, MOT and new tyres are funded ( this just happened to me in June and July). The security in knowing that you have ( in my case) 12 months of basic living expenses covered. The preace and joy of growing a few of your own veg! Beung frugal is also good for the environment and is usually a slower and more sustainable lifestyle. Whats not to like? Hard, to me, is being shoved and jostled around in a shopping centre full of noise and being conned by adverts and sharp sales practices into buying stuff i dont need! Noting stuff down is a matter of moments and ten minutes to review once a week? Thats not hard! 😂 thank you Jayne
I love when you asked, "Do you have the money for...etc, etc, etc?" We have 12 different sinking funds for bills I know are coming later in the year, and we also have an emergency fund for the UNPLANNED things that WILL HAPPEN. We had to have a new furnace installed (today as a matter of fact!), and we had the money to pay it. I hated to do it, but at least we had it. For that I am truly thankful.
I notice it's been easier to avoid buying anything that's not absolutely necessary - this means pairing down my grocery list by 1/2, which was already only barest basics, doing this right before going shopping - asking "can I live without it for a while/another week?" usually the answer is yes and it's crossed of the list. It's a good feeling.
🐹🎡🐹🎡🐹, those days are gone. What a good video!!! I am glad I can enjoy guilt free🏖️🌱🪴🍂🏕️ at first it took a bit of a saucer 🍎, Than its so rewarding🍓🫒🍌🍳🥣🫖🧀🚗 but you have to keep track, especially with these days prices!
I’m disabled so the hard moments about being frugal - when I dont have the energy or health to stick to the meal plan & scratch cook or do dishes (because we don’t buy paper plates anymore) but I have to. Or how the American government doesn’t allow disabled people to have more than 2k in savings even though we need 28% more $$ to scrape by than abled bodied people. I’m dealing with a body that’s against me and a government and society that’s against me 😔 but every day we do our best and soldier on. Your videos, this community and your advice/encouragement help Jane ❤ thank you
Thank you Jane and Michael. I contribute to my retirement fund, emergency fund, cash savings and sinking funds every month before I spend any money. So my brain is tricked into thinking I am living paycheque to paycheque (I am easlily tricked lol). I will send my grandson, (who is living paycheque to paycheqe), your quote: "Being frugal is hard, being broke is hard. Pick your hard."
I'm at the edge of my seat already in anticipation of this video! 😬🤯 "Supposedly" the price of "some" things here in the U.S. are going down but I haven't actually experienced that yet.
So, so true! I'm frugal but still have roomfor improvements! Saving all my receipts has really opened my eyes to how much I spend each month. Astonishing! I think I am being frugal, but the receipts tell the story.
I actually really enjoy being frugal. It makes me feel in control and my growing savings makes me feel safe and like I have choice in the future. No one ever taught me to save money or manage it and I ended up bankrupt 10 years ago. After that I never had a credit card...and I love it.
Great content. Thankfully I don't have any of those issues anymore. Living frugally and either within or below your means is so less stressful than the life society encourages you to pursue. Well said Jane 🥰
Another thought provoking video Jane and Mike! I have to say I have only just recently converted to the budgeting way of life - this is the end of month 10, and I’m so so sad that I hadn’t learnt the lessons years ago. I don’t consider myself to be frugal, but I have drastically reduced my spending habits and save up for everything I ‘want/need’. I love travelling too much to be classed as frugal.
Thank you for that really reflective and comprehensive video! I’ve never had difficulties with dept (it may have helped that I’m a former jurist😁), but of course I’ve weak sides as everybody and that is wool, painting stuff and first of all books. At the age of 68 I’m thinking more and more about what I really use and need and: what not anymore. Hobbies are changing. I created a new hobby for me: using what I have in a creative way… Love from Germany, Monika❣
Hi Jane and Mike, Living an amazing frugal life, I still have one ‘weakness (which I always pay from my 25 euro pocketmoney): books. I love reading so much! All the others things by budgetten are under control. We have saved a lot and we are still saving as much as possible. Because healthcare for us (being 75 and 84) will not be that good anymore! We never had any debts because we both worked full time. In 1994 i had a severe burn out. I quited my job and from then we had to live from one income. That meant budgetting and reading about how to live a frugal life .Loved it so much. Now we have a reasonable income but i never gave up budgetting and being frugal. You still inspire me to hold on in frugality, i love that. Everyone needs encouragement every now and then. Thanks for your inspiring videos.
In UK our library has an online service for free, not sure if this is common in Europe though? You sign up at the library, get a log in and can listen to audio books or read online. Even have the magazines from around the english speaking world. I don't buy magazines or non fiction books anymore, only books I will refer to like cooking books, or gardening books.
@@therobertsuk8498 Hi, thank you for your reply. in Holland we have libraries too of course. But i am just like you: the books I mostly buy, are ‘useful’ books. But there are so many of those books!, amazing.
@@therobertsuk8498Yes I use the library service too! Have just got into audiobooks as well! Can’t remember the last time I bought a book. If I get the urge to read a ‘real’ book, I can always go to our local phone box, which is now a library too! Take one, leave two! Brilliant!
Jane, I hope your video helps those who really need it. Things I love about being frugal: I love budgeting, it takes away soooo much stress as I'm never caught short at bill time or if an emergency comes up. I love having savings, it means I can sleep peacefully at night. I love that I am now investing - I didn't come from money, but realised I could learn to make my money grow and this is exciting! I love how uncluttered my home is, from the bedroom cupboards to the pantry. I love growing much of my own food as it's healthier and cheaper and I really find it relaxing. What I don't love about being frugal is when there is no choice, as with the current economic situation. I'm determined not to blow the food budget and this means I can't buy bread until the start of next month. I have plenty of food in the house, I have more than enough for good nutrition, but love my toast! Madeleine from Australia.X
Being frugal when it is a choice, isnt as hard a i am sure as being frugal out of necessity. However being frugal is always better than being in debt. Being frugal gives some element of control, wheras being in debt, you are less in control x
We are still paying medical bills, etc. a job loss and change this year has wiped out our savings. However, we are starting over and paying down our debt while still trying to save. It can be a stretch to save anything some months, but we are not giving up.
I had my breaking point years ago. I started living below my means and setting myself up for even greater money saving/investing challenges. I did this quietly, so when I had a health scare last year, I had to come clean about my finances with my family. They had an OMG moment. They asked me how I did it and I told them that I have given them all the advice, strategies, and examples they will ever need to succeed but they can always come to me for sound advice.
I think many people don’t have the mental capacity to navigate today’s more complicated world. I don’t mean that in a derogatory way, but the world was once a much simpler place.
As usual a great video. It made me think... I am still using my veggie strainer I bought 40yrs ago from Tupperware. It cost a lot but worth the money... I still use the utensils that I bought 30yrs ago for cooking. Once again stainless steel a lot of money but still in good condition. The list of things I have had forever goes on but even though the outlay was high for the time here I am 30plus years and still using them. Money well spent.. some of my clothing is 25plus years old and still fashionable. You as always make great sense and advice. Thankyou
One thing I learned is that when I am having a very busy day, I do not feel like cooking at the end of the day. So, I now start a meal early in the day using either my crock pot or instant pot. This keeps us from ordering food. Also, we lost our last cat about two years ago. We have decided not to adopt another pet at this time due to the rising cost of cat food and litter and vet bills. Having no mortgage or debt is one less stress during these stressful times.
We have a thrift store near me that offers certain tags for 99 cents. I have gotten quality clothes with name brands: wrangler, tommy hilfigar, ralph lauren , etc. for 99 cents ! People are buying clothing at full prices and filling their closets with new wardrobes every season when the clothes they had were just fine. Well I dress very well for incredibly cheap prices !! I will say at one time I was one of those people but years ago I woke up !
Jane totally agree. On one hand we are told that people are in fuel poverty. Can’t afford their energy bills. Every town, and village has a food bank, people can’t afford food. School holidays start, and they take leave of their senses! As you say, everything is booked up! Where’s the money coming from? Can only be credit cards. People are their own worst enemy. They have this attitude of, well we deserve to go on holiday! Not if you can’t afford it! Our families just put our heads down, and carry on. No credit cards, and no finance. Save up, or go without!!
People who live the life of excess, especially on credit, will not stop until they hit rock bottom. It's not just with credit, those of us who are renting are struggling because of greed and excess. Here in Australia prices of everything is going up and the lower income earners are being pushed out and stretched to the limit.
Thank you both of you for your videos and continuous encouragement. I am about to have surgery for ovarian disease, not being able to do much at the moment, I have been using my time making junk journals for friends and family for Christmas, yes I said Christmas, but as we all know it’s about the planning and junk journaling is perfect for using up stuff from our craft supplies, old books, bits of fabrics etc etc, and can be personalised to the recipient. I thought I would share this as others may be interested. Take care everyone 🙂
We are 60 and 61. Moat of our debt is gone except a 1%loan for replacing our rotting windows with double glazed ones. So we have a 2.5 year debt in that. But we wanted to do it before we retired, while we are both still working. We have some savings. And we both have a superannuation fund that will contribute to topping up our pension. I have struggled a bit with grown children needing financial assistance. That needs to stop as we are running out of time to save a good enough amount to live on sfter 65. We are in a better position than many. I have been planning financially for us to be debt free and set up-and we are fairly simple folk. Homebodies who don't drin or smoke or eat out much. Always looked after our home and like a quiet life. I am hoping we are doing enough. Your video was a good reminder to me about priorities. Thanks, Juanita from New Zealand.
Great video, as always. I really hope that during this cost of living crisis many people see what a huge industry there is making them part with their money, creating wants they didn't know they had and finance deals that look so good the companies must be doing them a favour. It's the normalisation of a unsustainable lifestyle that is scary. The only thing we can do is to keep being frugal and be there to help those around us if they are in need. Thanks Jane, for being there for us
I live a frugal life, but I use my two visa cards a lot. Yes, even for groceries. Every month I pay it all off and pay no interest. Each card is a “points card” and every so often I use the “payback with points” feature and have $25 taken off that month’s bill . It’s a system which works for me. The trick is to know exactly how much money I will have coming in and never overspending.
While I do use my credit cards (for convenience), I pay them off in full every month. My home and car are paid for. There is great freedom in being debt free.
I feel very fortunate. My husband and I are in a good place financially but are very frugal. Even better, we have the best friends. The people who have been our friends since high school ( we are now all in our 50’s) are also very frugal. One of our friends is a multi millionaire but still always finds the best deals when we vacation together. It’s important to be with the right crowd!
You asked what will it take me to change my thoughts about being frugal. My answer is - watching this video! Thank you for verbalising what so many people, me included, are thinking but not acting on. This video is marvellous, thank you again. You have helped me change my thinking.
I cant femember the last time i bought a joint of beef as the price is silly. Like you im using more veg for casseroles. What im doing is smaller portions and eating more slowly and find i dont need to eat more. If i have any cravings as you do i have apiece of fruit or even open a tin of fruit and it lasts a few days. Love your videos x
You are so right. Thank you for being the face and voice for all of us who wish they could say it so eloquently and be heard. I guess the saddest reflection is that there are so many out there who are drowning, but don't recignise the life buoy when it's thrown to them😊
I agree with you on most points. We are not all like that but sometimes we have to go broke and learn the hard way. Many people have to get into debt for geuine reasons like poor health or job loss and its hard for them.
Agreed, however they should have had a year’s emergency fund saved and done what ever it takes to have medical insurance. Sadly, some people choose a monster mortgage and fancy car instead of an apartment and saving for retirement
I agree with you! About health and job loss! I was in the military earning good money! Got married got out! Husbands super poorly and can’t work! So I work full time and a mum! But sometimes people can’t afford too save! If I could of spoke too the younger me! I would of saved at least 15 percent of my wage! But no chance of emergency fund! I get being frugal! Which I try my best with the little I earn! Xx
@@FrugalQueeninFrance agree. There are some people out there that take no responsibility and keep up with the next door neighbour but for others that have like we said geuine circumstances I empathise and hope they find a way through these difficult times. Keep up the good work that you do through your videos it's very helpul to others. It gives us all a way of expressing opinions and a great informal education. An emergency fund(3months is probably achievable by most)of a year is out of reach for most as well medical insurance depending on where one lives.
@@Kim-gs8dt keep going you've got this. Money will come and go but you have what money can't buy a good work ethic, strength and resilience. Keep going you've got this 💪💗
We were never on that hamster wheel never in debt, apart from the mortgage, we lived our life and have lost so called friends BUT so what we are happy. Now people look at us in our retirement as if we are rich, we are not. We cruise we travel ,we own a small car we live. On Friday we are celebrating 50 years of marriage by renting a self catering house for our family for a week. Let the Joneses keep up with you. Live the life you can afford and enjoy every moment. As my husband would say “ because you are worth it”😊
Jane, an amazing video as usual. I get a bit irritated with people who just buy buy buy. I'm happy with my charity shop clothes, my old second hand car which hardly uses any petrol and our mortgage free life. I do everything you say but its lovely to be reminded that it's not just me who thinks like that. Best wishes from a frugalist in cornwall.
I enjoy your straightforward encouragement based in reality. We’ve been frugal throughout our 24 years of marriage, but I feel the need to double down now and increase our savings and conserving as we still have some of our mortgage to pay off. We’ve talked a lot this summer with our two university kids about the $5, $10, $15 decisions that add up over time. I think it is easier to skip a lot of those little expenses when you’re content with your life and activities at home. We’re trying to continue modeling that contentment and prudent living to all of our children.
When I was younger I thought budgets were too restrictive. I regret that. Now I realize that debt free living provides true freedom. Please pay off everything you owe as soon as you can. It is never too late to free yourself from debt.
I'm working hard to be frugal. I'm a natural spender and a " mother squirel " like we say here. I don't use credit since 1 year now and it sooooo less stressful!!! I'm still working on repairing damages, though. What I find hard is to do it alone. Like you say, frugality is hard work, but doing it alone takes so much time!!! That's why I'm grateful for my little house on my little yard where I can do gardening to my scale and preserving to my scale. But we no accountability partner, it's hard to be good all the time. The "no credit rule" is particularly useful there!!! Thank you so much for your channel!!!
Ooh, that was a ranty one Jane! I have to say that I share your opinions on everything you talked about. Most of the time, being frugal is easy, but there are those times when I slip up, albeit in a considered way. Last weekend I had a friend stay at my place who I hadn't seen since before the pandemic. We were at church for a long time on Sunday morning, then we needed a quick lunch so I could get her back to Heathrow to catch the bus home to the midlands. The lunch cost more than I anticipated, but gave us the time to spend together and catch up. (She had gone to bed very early Saturday night because she was jet lagged from flying in from doing some work in Thailand.) I don't consider that a waste of money, because a friendship of 30 years needs some quality time together. A fantastic embroiderer has produced some beautiful but expensive kits. I really want one, but can't justify the expense, so am holding fire on that one.
Frugality for myself is a habit after 35+ yrs. But it can still be challenging and sometimes not easy or comfortable. I think it's like every other skill set, you have to keep working at it. Keep gaining knowledge through education. I think you & channels like yours help the frugal folks and want to be frugal folks....to be in the know about different ways to approach the best frugal life. Our challenge here in the US and maybe other countries also, is the prices of homes have gone up astronomically. What was once a $200,000 home is now $600,000. Along with that comes people like me that own my home and now my yearly county home tax is probably going to increase by 25% just bc of market value increase. 🙄 Frugality has taught me how to handle it, but it's not comfortable to pay more money when I changed zero on my house.
I do agree that it is hard. My most challenging thing is that we live rurally and selection of fresh food is horrible outside of local growing season. So I find myself buying large quantities of fruits and vegetables on clearance and stocking my shelves with canning jars, or dehydrated or freeze dried items in order to have what I want during the other 8 months of the year. Also when I find meats half off through the Flashfood app, I buy all that I can get, and then freeze it, in portions for future meals (where I have controlled the cost). I rationalize it as my budgeting for groceries . But admittedly I have enough now for about 12-18 months. 😮 We are doing a no spend August and September though, and I have not bought any groceries since July 12th. Now it's garden harvest and meals from our stores time. But I admit I am drawn by the discounted prices on items that we eat regularly. But we never eat out, nor do we carry credit card debt. And after 16 years of owning the same vehicle that was dragging its axles behind it, we traded it in for our next work horse vehicle. That we did get a 1.9% loan for 4 years, but we will have it paid off early, and we still have our emergency fund, and we are investing 10% of our retirement income monthly. But I can't wait to get that weight off our plate, hate debt. We do use credit cards for all purchases and bills, but I check every quarter for which one offers the best rewards. I currently get 3% back on utility bills, phone, and internet. And I get 3% back on travel and transportation. For all other purchases I get 2% back, even on medical, dental, and optical services. We belong to Costco, and have their credit card, and by doing that it covers our membership fees with rewards and gives us 3% back on gas, and 4% back on purchases. They offer the cheapest gasoline prices as well as the best price on organic vegetables within 2 hours of us. Shopping is something that neither of us enjoys. And with the nearest grocery store being 35-45 minutes away, and Costco is 1 hour away on a good day (otherwise 90 minutes),we keep a running list of low on items, or out of items, and we wait until we have an appointment in that area before we go. At 15 months old our car has less than 8000 miles on it. And 3300 of those miles were to visit my mother last year in Florida after the hurricane hit, and driving with supplies was the best option. Frugal living for us is a way of life and we got even more intentional about our spending when we left the work force in 2016. We choose where we want to spend our discretionary money carefully. And we couldn't be happier. But no one understands us, or how we choose to live, well except for 2 of my 3 children, they get it.
we are retired and staying in a very remote fishing club for 6 months - food is close to double cost and fuel for boat is expensive too but at least we are eating lots of fish and mud crab and saving on normal stuff we can't access like movies, hardware store, garden nursery, etc. Being creative with food and drink prep, having friends byo around a fire, listening and watching the birds, enjoying our boat trips with picnic lunches. living the dream on a budget!!
Absolutely, you are right, they still don't care. I cannot imagine myself overspending now when inflation is the issue. I have savings but this doesn't entitle me just to waste it for no reason. Adam from Wales ❤
I think similarly, but there is also the issue of economies and businesses relying on people spending in their shops, cafes etc. If everyone curbed their spending businesses would suffer and a lot of people would be out of work. I’m a bit of both. I am careful with money and I try to avoid waste, but I also buy ‘nice to have’ things. Frugality is good to always bear in mind, to whatever degree of it works for you.
Being frugal is easier now that we are much older and retired. Our wants are few, so we aren't tempted by stores and stuff. The food budget was always the hard one for me, but after following your budget plan and tips, I finally have a handle on it. Thank you, Jane and Mike for being a true inspiration to so many.
Thank you both for another thought provoking and honest video! My husband and I are presently saving up for some necessary major repairs on our house and are watching our pennies. Although I work two jobs I am still finding the time to make as much as I can from scratch at home. Like you, Jane, I am gluten free, so my bread machine is a life saver (gluten free bread is just ridiculously expensive in the stores). I even used it the other day to culture my vegan yogurt! Years ago my in-laws got us a pasta machine and I can use it not only for homemade pasta but gluten free bread sticks, bagels and pretzels ( especially since,as you know, gluten free dough is much softer and more batter like than dough made with regular flour). One of your latest videos inspired me to make a quilt top for an old comforter that developed holes I couldn't mend. It won't be as lovely as yours, but quite serviceable 😊
Good talk. I have seriously cut down on spending due to the soaring costs in Oz. As a home cook I eyeball a recipe and check the prices of the ingredients. Many recipes can be adapted and extra serves placed in the freezer. I find this strategy saves money and time on busy days. I am planning to make September a low or no spend month, so stocking up on the meals. Look forward to seeing more of the garden. Enjoy the weekend with Mike and the doggies🎉😊
I'm in hospital now after new hip surgery. I live upstairs but have to live downstairs on my return home as chances of hip dislocation are a minimum of twelve weeks. So I had to buy two new king single beds, one for me & a helper to sleep there. Then bought bed raisers as I can't bend forward or down. Grab rail for bed, mattress protectors, dressing stick , sock puller upper, grabber/reachers, sheets to fit beds, shower chair, over the toilet seat, meals on wheels, can't bend down to oven or reach top cupboard. All unforseen expenses. Then there's cleaning, washing - can't bend down to washing machine or hang out clothes or use dryer.Extra pain medication for home. Herbs, vegetables & fruit are upstairs garden. Unable to walk upstairs for weeks. Helper needed to feed poultry & cat - can't bend down to change their water or clean out their house. I can access superannuation but wouldn't last fifteen or twenty years - father died at 97. I' m 32 years younger so will have to rent out upstairs - then capital gains tax if selling. Saw a suitable house to move to not in flood or bushfire area but another offer was accepted. There are so many baby boomers in similar circumstances with maintenance costs & few accessible places suitable to move to. Then moving costs, stamp duty, agent fees, etc. Always unforseen bills to save for a rainy day. The older you get, the more it costs.
I had had enough pre-covid so that worked out well. I didn't "go back" to crazy spending as I realized years ago that shopping was just a hobby. I was filling in space with time and in my home. Wish I had done that much sooner but eventually I caught on. If you are younger than me I hope you catch on when you can make a much bigger impact on your current and your future financial security. Enjoy life of course but reconsider throwing your money away.
Hello from Seattle, Washington. I love your video's like this. They help me stay on track, and inspire me to be present and really think about my purchases.
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"Frugal is hard. Broke is hard. Choose your hard." BEST quote I've heard in a long time!
Rich people stay rich by acting poor. Poor people stay poor by acting rich. Can't remember who said it though
It’s true.
@@FrugalQueeninFranceVery much so.
Absolutely!
Exactly!!!!
I used to live in Omaha, Nebraska. One of the richest men in the world, warren Buffett, drove an old Cadillac with the license plate that said Thrifty
I went to work today and a colleague told me to get rid of my shoes( ballet pumps)... When I asked why, I was told they old fashioned and the stores have newer stock.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with the pair I own.
I will not be bullied for "outside eyes"
I am clean and well put together.
Thank you Kindly Jane and Mike.
Your advice is well received
Good for you!
I love ballet pumps. All I wear really.
I would not have anything more to do with her or him
That was very rude. Why do they care anyway.
Firstly, they shouldn’t be commenting on your clothing.
Secondly, ballet pumps are back in anyway, so your colleague is behind the trends! 😂
I have been debt free for a year. 2023 is a no spend year for me. I took inventory, made a list of 10 things I am not buying this year. If I want something new, I shop my closets, shelves, or cupboards. Knowing I have an emergency fund and sinking funds set up brings such peace of mind. Thank you for sharing all of your guidance and good
sense.
Many congratulations to you for rewriting the rest of your life.
We have finally made it after almost 40 yrs of frugality, working 2-4 jobs and raising our 4 kids to spend money the way we want. We have paid off house, full emergency fun, fully funded vacation fund etc.. no debts at all. We don’t feel guilty now to eat out, get a cup of coffee or go on a great vacation cuz we have earned it and have saved for it. This is what freedom and sacrifice look like for us . Love your videos ❤
🙌
Same with us, we worked hard saved our money, we have decent pension so we enjoy life. We are not overly extravagant but we are not squeezing the toothpaste too tube either.
Yes, the same for us. We don't have debt or a lot of expenses. We spend money on things we enjoy now that our kids are grown and we're retired. We downsized and are getting rid of things we don't need so we can spend less time maintaining "stuff".
@@olivebobo6885 we have a pension as well. It eliminates a lot of anxiety . We feel blessed since pensions are a rarity these days.
Only 2 generations from the Great Depression here in the States. How soon we forget:( My husband and I live very similar to you and yours. People think we are odd and don’t understand our choices. 10 years ago we got off the hamster wheel of crazy consumption. Learning to be content is not only a skill but a great character trait as well. Brilliant video!!!
Thanks for sharing
Yes, learning to be content is so important
I was at the bank to roll my mom’s CD over to another at a greater interest rate. We were talking about my $. The investment manager asked me if I had any debt. No! Do I have any needs. No! Do I have any dreams. No. I just want to be left alone to sew, knit, crochet, garden, and be with my husband. My solar panels and I are very happy together! What else could a person want? 💙
Good for you
We now save 30% to make up for lost time. In the last three years we have started serious savings, paid off the car, paid off the mortgage and got a healthy emergency fund. You’ve been very encouraging along the way, thank you it is changing our lives. Today when we went shopping we stuck to the list, only bought what was budgeted for, paid and left (no coffee even) and didn’t hang around. You can change your mindset x
That's awesome
Jane you’ll get a kick out of this. Last weak our stove finally died and had to be replaced. I researched what I wanted and we went in to purchase it. The sales person tried his best to convince me that I should buy the whole suite because”it increases the value of your house when all of the appliances are the same make and match “. It took him a while to understand “No thank you” and then looked at me like I had two heads when I started to negotiate price. It took almost walking out several times but we got a great deal in the end. Although after finally agreeing on the price they were shocked to learn we didn’t want to finance it! What you said in your video is spot on! Take care!
Music to my ears
I had the same thing happen 3 weeks ago. Both my 17 yrs old refrigerator and washing machine both decided to die. So, I researched the best price/reviews and appliances for my needs. I went to the store, cash in hand for both, and I believe the salesman was shocked. He looked at me like I was a unicorn. My son and I removed the old appliances and replaced them with the new ones. 😮 Now that was super heavy work, but we did it in 3 hrs...for free.
I have been amazed at seeing people I know still spending like crazy . Being frugal has left me pretty lonely, but I have to live this way. I have listened to hurtful comments, and now no longer hear from most “friends” I had. I keep busy working and gardening and taking care of my home. I hope someday to “find my tribe” I am grateful for online groups like this one, but in person contact is missing. Someday😊
You will because you're a decent person
Same--I hear you! 💛
They were never truly your friends if they are treating you differently because you want or need to be frugal. You're better off without that!
Folks are taking your decisions personally, as in they know they should be making better choices but aren't and feel bad about it, so they are picking apart YOUR choices. So really it's not about how they feel about you, but how they feel about themselves.
@@jengarding5501 very different perspective, thank you
I had eight tops in my wardrobe ,all too small, never worn ,threatened by my GP with statins and metformin ( I said no thank you I will lose some weight ) , now three stone lighter, normal blood sugar cholesterol fine, off blood pressure meds and wearing all eight tops and less money spent on food, especially pasties and doughnuts so win win :)
Congratulations - a great way to save the $!
Christinewright92,, wow, great for you, I hope you are still doing well,sometimes a little change in our diet/lifestyle can improve our life in many ways.
We downsized from a 3 bed house to a 2 bed bungalow (which we turned into a 1 bed) in 2021. Honestly best choice we ever made, our bills are a fraction of what they once were, my husband can walk to work and mines only a mile away when it used to be 12 miles,major saving on fuel for us both. Downsizing is the way forward !
Agreed, we did just that in 2013 to have a tiny mortgage and costs
@@FrugalQueeninFrance we also downsized and I'm loving not having to clean a whole house !! our mortgage will be paid off next year, the rental pays our living expenses, remember the old adage about eating cat food lol who can afford cat food nowadays !!
I am an administrator for NHS...I job I love. What I struggle with is acrylic nails! Everyone in the building has them, but not me. I'm not gonna give in to it! Each to their own. Great video again...thank you :)
I am blessed with strong nails, and have always, painted my own - nude for work, and weekends are unpainted, unless we have one of those special trips out for a wedding or such like.Always dyed my own hair too, as its long, and I did try going to the hairdressers when I was transitioning to a lighter colour, but it was so nauseating to me to spend a whole morning in a hot hairdressers!
Don’t they worry about losing a nail in some patients dressings or Something?
Please don’t do it. They ruin your nail beds. Have twice had them done as ‘gifts’ I didn’t ask for. Instead, Use the money to buy a funky new ‘ordinary ‘ nail varnish, clear top coat, emery boards and indulgent hand cream for an at-home manicure treat.
Those nails can breed nasty bacteria in all the little crevices. Ive heard some horror stories of nurses caring for vulnerable babies and passing on some nasty bugs with disasterous consequences. I wouldnt want to eat food cooked by someone with acrylic nails.
Really,I didn’t think they would be allowed tbh & not very clean.Seems that standard’s have dropped in the nhs.
My savings throughout y year goes to a plane ticket to visit my family in another state. I can no longer drive the distance due to age. The pennies add up and I save a little. Holding my three year old grandchild makes it all worth the sacrifice. Lifeblood and love is irreplaceable. Thank you and God bless you for all the helpful information.
Thanks for sharing your wonderful story
We were blessed to put new cabinets in our kitchen 25 years ago. People have told me its time to replace because the finish is the wrong color. Never! Ill keep these beautiful cabinets as long as i live here. Im very THANKFUL for them! I read youre now expected to replace your kitchen cabinets every ten years. Oh please.
Quality lasts
I hit my breaking point a year ago. I watched your videos, learned a TON and got myself on a budget that works for me! I save 1/3 of my monthly income and live on 2/3. My family thinks I’m nuts. They say things like … ‘ why are you depriving yourself?’
I don’t feel deprived at all … truth is I’m more free now than I’ve ever been!!!! Do I still have debt …. Yes …. But I’ve also got a plan …. And I’m motivated all the time to keep at it because the prize of a debt free life is so worth it to me!!
You're not depriving yourself, you're investing in a better future
Tell them you're saving money for Future Tammy! Being debt free is an amazing feeling!
Ahh you are expressing exactly how I feel. Me too, I'm still cleaning up past mistakes, but I feel so free already not using credit anymore!!! Since March, I had so many unexpected and large expenses, but I was able to cashflow them with patience and strategy. I'm proud of myself!!
Being debt free is SO freeing! You will get there and it will be so, so worth it.
Congrats your doing a fab job, having a plan makes all the difference. Keep going the more debt you get rid of the better you will feel. Im debt and mortgage free and was told im a miser. This was someone who rents who s in massive debt, no job and no future. Who has no money, but buys takeaways regularly and has to buy designer clothes and food. Mad
Thanks Jane another spot on post. I found I’m spending less by doing more at home. My house is cleaner & less cluttered. Eating simple meals, trying to go meat free several days a week also helps cut the budget. I’m enjoying trying to be frugal as I can see the benefits, less debt,less worry. 🤗💐💐
Just started a no buy year. I was spending money for all the wrong reasons and not saving enough. And I have enough stuff. Am going to practice gratitude the coming 12 months and not buy any clothes, cosmetics and make-up. I have plenty. Time to stop shopping. Thank you Jane and Mike for the inspiration on this channel!
You can do it!
I've never been a spender. Always had to watch every penny. Now that I'm alone it is easier. I have my budget, pay my bills, savings and groceries. I made this year a no spend year. So far so good. It is so freeing. I can't do anything about inflation but I can plan for it and be prepared. Grocery prices keep rising but I eat simple meals and get creative. I do not feel deprived at all. It worth all the work and effort!!
Love that!
You will be so glad you are careful with your money now when you retire later. People don’t quite get that what you money waste now won’t be there ( with interest) when you retire or when you hit a bump in the road. Good job!
When my mother in law, then my mom died seeing 60+ years each of stuff cost many thousands of dollars to fill dumpsters. They both loved their stuff. Both always buying and wanting more. Then to see it all trashed because no one wants your beloved items. This wasteful cycle of buying really hit me hard. I have a new way of looking at my possession. I am trying to use what I have, get rid of what I no longer want/need and really evaluate every item I bring into my home.
It’s sad but it happens
Great video! Thank you Jane and Mike! If any of my family members don’t “understand” what I doing I just tell them it’s a game I like playing! They usually don’t say much more. It’s true I play a game of trying to see if there are more ways of not wasting money. There is so much freedom and contentment in being debt free!
Love that!
I like to say that it's the best game in town.
I have one handbag. It was a gift nearly 20 years ago bought by a friend at a Native American Powwow. I repair the strap every once in awhile if it gets frayed. ❤ I still love it immensely. ❤
Thanks for sharing!
This is kind of how I feel. I have friends who are complaining they are sinking fast, but have just booked a £3000 holiday and are still loading up their trolleys in the supermarket with expensive branded products that they could afford to miss for a bit. It just boggles the mind!!!!
Exactly!!
Really sound, frank advice. As far as prepping goes, i differ slightly in my view. Prepping can either be a shopping frenzy of excess, as you suggest, or it can be a money-saving technique. Now that i have one year stock of nonperishables, I'm buying groceries once or twice a month, using my stored foods, replenishing my stock and saved myself one year's worth of inflation. Prices will continue to rise, so it works for me as a money saving strategy. I do think it requires discipline. Peace of mind and "preparedness" is just a convenient side effect.
We're very blessed to be debt free, and i applaud you for teaching the importance of taking charge of your spending and saying "enough is enough!"
“ Once upon a time” frugality was the norm and folks were proud to be so. Then came tv, mass media and advertising for Ll the stuff you didn’t know you needed...and folks took to being led around like a bull with a ring in his nose...all I can say is wake up people...We do not find frugal living difficult and have all we need and some of the ‘would be nice to haves’ and continue to save in retirement more than 10% each month. One fo the greatest assets is learning to do things yourself as much as possible. Thanks Jane and Michael from Susan
Agree with everything you said
Not only does inflation keep going up, but the quality of good keeps getting drastically worse. In several different categories. And many of them are now designed so we cannot repair them ourselves. Like my cellphone battery for instance, and also my vacuum belt. Never in my life have I not had the option to simply change a battery myself.
Being frugal is fun. Being frugal makes me feel safe in these crazy times. The excitement of watching a sinking fund grow, while having time to throughly research to ensure that you are buying the correct product. The security in knowing that your car tax, car insurance, MOT and new tyres are funded ( this just happened to me in June and July). The security in knowing that you have ( in my case) 12 months of basic living expenses covered. The preace and joy of growing a few of your own veg!
Beung frugal is also good for the environment and is usually a slower and more sustainable lifestyle. Whats not to like? Hard, to me, is being shoved and jostled around in a shopping centre full of noise and being conned by adverts and sharp sales practices into buying stuff i dont need! Noting stuff down is a matter of moments and ten minutes to review once a week? Thats not hard! 😂 thank you Jayne
I love when you asked, "Do you have the money for...etc, etc, etc?" We have 12 different sinking funds for bills I know are coming later in the year, and we also have an emergency fund for the UNPLANNED things that WILL HAPPEN. We had to have a new furnace installed (today as a matter of fact!), and we had the money to pay it. I hated to do it, but at least we had it. For that I am truly thankful.
Absolutely awesome
I notice it's been easier to avoid buying anything that's not absolutely necessary - this means pairing down my grocery list by 1/2, which was already only barest basics, doing this right before going shopping - asking "can I live without it for a while/another week?" usually the answer is yes and it's crossed of the list. It's a good feeling.
Good point!
🐹🎡🐹🎡🐹, those days are gone. What a good video!!! I am glad I can enjoy guilt free🏖️🌱🪴🍂🏕️ at first it took a bit of a saucer 🍎,
Than its so rewarding🍓🫒🍌🍳🥣🫖🧀🚗 but you have to keep track, especially with these days prices!
My husband asked if we need to go grocery shopping, I answered him we could wait for one more day.
Thank you Jane and Mike!
I’m disabled so the hard moments about being frugal - when I dont have the energy or health to stick to the meal plan & scratch cook or do dishes (because we don’t buy paper plates anymore) but I have to. Or how the American government doesn’t allow disabled people to have more than 2k in savings even though we need 28% more $$ to scrape by than abled bodied people. I’m dealing with a body that’s against me and a government and society that’s against me 😔 but every day we do our best and soldier on. Your videos, this community and your advice/encouragement help Jane ❤ thank you
Sorry to hear that
It’s the same here in the U.K. now, it’s awful the prejudice disabled people receive here now, and from the government too.
@@sarahbannon4752 I’m sad to hear it’s no better for disabled people in the UK 😢👎
Thank you Jane and Michael. I contribute to my retirement fund, emergency fund, cash savings and sinking funds every month before I spend any money. So my brain is tricked into thinking I am living paycheque to paycheque (I am easlily tricked lol). I will send my grandson, (who is living paycheque to paycheqe), your quote: "Being frugal is hard, being broke is hard. Pick your hard."
I'm at the edge of my seat already in anticipation of this video! 😬🤯 "Supposedly" the price of "some" things here in the U.S. are going down but I haven't actually experienced that yet.
Thank you Jane with always providing ways to budget and food prep. and Frugal living tips.
So, so true! I'm frugal but still have roomfor improvements! Saving all my receipts has really opened my eyes to how much I spend each month. Astonishing! I think I am being frugal, but the receipts tell the story.
You had me laughing so hard when you said people leave their house where they have food and coffee and go out and buy.......😹
They do indeed
I actually really enjoy being frugal. It makes me feel in control and my growing savings makes me feel safe and like I have choice in the future. No one ever taught me to save money or manage it and I ended up bankrupt 10 years ago. After that I never had a credit card...and I love it.
Great content. Thankfully I don't have any of those issues anymore. Living frugally and either within or below your means is so less stressful than the life society encourages you to pursue. Well said Jane 🥰
Thanks very much
Another thought provoking video Jane and Mike! I have to say I have only just recently converted to the budgeting way of life - this is the end of month 10, and I’m so so sad that I hadn’t learnt the lessons years ago. I don’t consider myself to be frugal, but I have drastically reduced my spending habits and save up for everything I ‘want/need’. I love travelling too much to be classed as frugal.
Hello from Romania. Interesting. Interesting ❤
Thank you for that really reflective and comprehensive video! I’ve never had difficulties with dept (it may have helped that I’m a former jurist😁), but of course I’ve weak sides as everybody and that is wool, painting stuff and first of all books. At the age of 68 I’m thinking more and more about what I really use and need and: what not anymore. Hobbies are changing. I created a new hobby for me: using what I have in a creative way… Love from Germany, Monika❣
Hi Jane and Mike,
Living an amazing frugal life, I still have one ‘weakness (which I always pay from my 25 euro pocketmoney): books. I love reading so much! All the others things by budgetten are under control. We have saved a lot and we are still saving as much as possible. Because healthcare for us (being 75 and 84) will not be that good anymore!
We never had any debts because we both worked full time. In 1994 i had a severe burn out. I quited my job and from then we had to live from one income. That meant budgetting and reading about how to live a frugal life .Loved it so much. Now we have a reasonable income but i never gave up budgetting and being frugal.
You still inspire me to hold on in frugality, i love that. Everyone needs encouragement every now and then.
Thanks for your inspiring videos.
In UK our library has an online service for free, not sure if this is common in Europe though? You sign up at the library, get a log in and can listen to audio books or read online. Even have the magazines from around the english speaking world. I don't buy magazines or non fiction books anymore, only books I will refer to like cooking books, or gardening books.
@@therobertsuk8498 Hi, thank you for your reply.
in Holland we have libraries too of course. But i am just like you: the books I mostly buy, are ‘useful’ books. But there are so many of those books!, amazing.
@@therobertsuk8498Yes I use the library service too! Have just got into audiobooks as well! Can’t remember the last time I bought a book. If I get the urge to read a ‘real’ book, I can always go to our local phone box, which is now a library too! Take one, leave two! Brilliant!
Books are a necessity not an indulgence!
@@jackiecornwall9160 absolutely so!
Jane, I hope your video helps those who really need it.
Things I love about being frugal: I love budgeting, it takes away soooo much stress as I'm never caught short at bill time or if an emergency comes up.
I love having savings, it means I can sleep peacefully at night.
I love that I am now investing - I didn't come from money, but realised I could learn to make my money grow and this is exciting!
I love how uncluttered my home is, from the bedroom cupboards to the pantry.
I love growing much of my own food as it's healthier and cheaper and I really find it relaxing.
What I don't love about being frugal is when there is no choice, as with the current economic situation. I'm determined not to blow the food budget and this means I can't buy bread until the start of next month. I have plenty of food in the house, I have more than enough for good nutrition, but love my toast!
Madeleine from Australia.X
An impactful presentation. You ask the right questions to cultivate self-reflection on how to live one’s life -frugal or broke. Well done. Thanks.
Glad it was helpful!
Being frugal when it is a choice, isnt as hard a i am sure as being frugal out of necessity. However being frugal is always better than being in debt. Being frugal gives some element of control, wheras being in debt, you are less in control x
We’ve been both, it’s way better than being broke
It certainly makes you inventive though!
I admire your commitment, consistency and perseverance to sticking to your plan no matter what.
Thanks very much
We are still paying medical bills, etc. a job loss and change this year has wiped out our savings. However, we are starting over and paying down our debt while still trying to save. It can be a stretch to save anything some months, but we are not giving up.
Sorry about those medical bills.
I had my breaking point years ago. I started living below my means and setting myself up for even greater money saving/investing challenges. I did this quietly, so when I had a health scare last year, I had to come clean about my finances with my family. They had an OMG moment. They asked me how I did it and I told them that I have given them all the advice, strategies, and examples they will ever need to succeed but they can always come to me for sound advice.
Jane every word you say is so true ,I see it in all my children .mainly the coffees and take aways. I'm so glad I am not tempted..
I think many people don’t have the mental capacity to navigate today’s more complicated world. I don’t mean that in a derogatory way, but the world was once a much simpler place.
Agreed on that
As usual a great video. It made me think... I am still using my veggie strainer I bought 40yrs ago from Tupperware. It cost a lot but worth the money... I still use the utensils that I bought 30yrs ago for cooking. Once again stainless steel a lot of money but still in good condition. The list of things I have had forever goes on but even though the outlay was high for the time here I am 30plus years and still using them. Money well spent.. some of my clothing is 25plus years old and still fashionable. You as always make great sense and advice. Thankyou
Thanks for watching
One thing I learned is that when I am having a very busy day, I do not feel like cooking at the end of the day. So, I now start a meal early in the day using either my crock pot or instant pot. This keeps us from ordering food. Also, we lost our last cat about two years ago. We have decided not to adopt another pet at this time due to the rising cost of cat food and litter and vet bills. Having no mortgage or debt is one less stress during these stressful times.
I like your chose your hard. Ya spot on. I chose frugality. In time, it becomes easy.
We have a thrift store near me that offers certain tags for 99 cents. I have gotten quality clothes with name brands: wrangler, tommy hilfigar, ralph lauren , etc. for 99 cents ! People are buying clothing at full prices and filling their closets with new wardrobes every season when the clothes they had were just fine. Well I dress very well for incredibly cheap prices !! I will say at one time I was one of those people but years ago I woke up !
That is awesome!
Jane totally agree. On one hand we are told that people are in fuel poverty. Can’t afford their energy bills. Every town, and village has a food bank, people can’t afford food.
School holidays start, and they take leave of their senses! As you say, everything is booked up! Where’s the money coming from? Can only be credit cards.
People are their own worst enemy. They have this attitude of, well we deserve to go on holiday! Not if you can’t afford it! Our families just put our heads down, and carry on. No credit cards, and no finance. Save up, or go without!!
People who live the life of excess, especially on credit, will not stop until they hit rock bottom. It's not just with credit, those of us who are renting are struggling because of greed and excess. Here in Australia prices of everything is going up and the lower income earners are being pushed out and stretched to the limit.
Thank you both of you for your videos and continuous encouragement. I am about to have surgery for ovarian disease, not being able to do much at the moment, I have been using my time making junk journals for friends and family for Christmas, yes I said Christmas, but as we all know it’s about the planning and junk journaling is perfect for using up stuff from our craft supplies, old books, bits of fabrics etc etc, and can be personalised to the recipient.
I thought I would share this as others may be interested.
Take care everyone 🙂
We are 60 and 61. Moat of our debt is gone except a 1%loan for replacing our rotting windows with double glazed ones. So we have a 2.5 year debt in that. But we wanted to do it before we retired, while we are both still working. We have some savings. And we both have a superannuation fund that will contribute to topping up our pension.
I have struggled a bit with grown children needing financial assistance. That needs to stop as we are running out of time to save a good enough amount to live on sfter 65. We are in a better position than many. I have been planning financially for us to be debt free and set up-and we are fairly simple folk. Homebodies who don't drin or smoke or eat out much. Always looked after our home and like a quiet life.
I am hoping we are doing enough. Your video was a good reminder to me about priorities. Thanks, Juanita from New Zealand.
It’s the “ I want it and I want it now!” mentality.
Great video, as always.
I really hope that during this cost of living crisis many people see what a huge industry there is making them part with their money, creating wants they didn't know they had and finance deals that look so good the companies must be doing them a favour. It's the normalisation of a unsustainable lifestyle that is scary.
The only thing we can do is to keep being frugal and be there to help those around us if they are in need.
Thanks Jane, for being there for us
I hope so too!
I live a frugal life, but I use my two visa cards a lot. Yes, even for groceries. Every month I pay it all off and pay no interest. Each card is a “points card” and every so often I use the “payback with points” feature and have $25 taken off that month’s bill .
It’s a system which works for me. The trick is to know exactly how much money I will have coming in and never overspending.
Brilliant, however you and I both know that millions certainly don't use them like that
Some people are simply not credit card people.
@@FrugalQueeninFrance So true. The only reason I'm so disciplined is that I have no choice!
While I do use my credit cards (for convenience), I pay them off in full every month. My home and car are paid for. There is great freedom in being debt free.
You are very sensible in explaining so well these important matters. BIG thank you!!!
I have spent quite a bit on "hobby supplies," and now that I've reduced my spending, I'm actually using them during no-spend weeks!
They're never a waste if they're actually used
I feel very fortunate. My husband and I are in a good place financially but are very frugal. Even better, we have the best friends. The people who have been our friends since high school ( we are now all in our 50’s) are also very frugal. One of our friends is a multi millionaire but still always finds the best deals when we vacation together. It’s important to be with the right crowd!
You always give me encouragement to stay inline with budgeting!❤️
Great video, THANK YOU, so much.
Glad it was helpful!
I love that comment being frugal is hard broke is hard, choose your hard! Love it I choose frugal ❤❤
You asked what will it take me to change my thoughts about being frugal. My answer is - watching this video! Thank you for verbalising what so many people, me included, are thinking but not acting on. This video is marvellous, thank you again. You have helped me change my thinking.
Thank you.
I cant femember the last time i bought a joint of beef as the price is silly. Like you im using more veg for casseroles. What im doing is smaller portions and eating more slowly and find i dont need to eat more. If i have any cravings as you do i have apiece of fruit or even open a tin of fruit and it lasts a few days. Love your videos x
I"m the same with lamb, won't buy imported lamb when we have lots here, but the price of home grown is ridiculously expensive. I so miss it though!
Sounds very healthy
You are so right. Thank you for being the face and voice for all of us who wish they could say it so eloquently and be heard. I guess the saddest reflection is that there are so many out there who are drowning, but don't recignise the life buoy when it's thrown to them😊
I agree with you on most points. We are not all like that but sometimes we have to go broke and learn the hard way. Many people have to get into debt for geuine reasons like poor health or job loss and its hard for them.
Agreed, however they should have had a year’s emergency fund saved and done what ever it takes to have medical insurance. Sadly, some people choose a monster mortgage and fancy car instead of an apartment and saving for retirement
I agree with you! About health and job loss! I was in the military earning good money! Got married got out! Husbands super poorly and can’t work! So I work full time and a mum! But sometimes people can’t afford too save! If I could of spoke too the younger me! I would of saved at least 15 percent of my wage! But no chance of emergency fund! I get being frugal! Which I try my best with the little I earn! Xx
@@FrugalQueeninFrance agree. There are some people out there that take no responsibility and keep up with the next door neighbour but for others that have like we said geuine circumstances I empathise and hope they find a way through these difficult times.
Keep up the good work that you do through your videos it's very helpul to others. It gives us all a way of expressing opinions and a great informal education. An emergency fund(3months is probably achievable by most)of a year is out of reach for most as well medical insurance depending on where one lives.
@@Kim-gs8dt keep going you've got this. Money will come and go but you have what money can't buy a good work ethic, strength and resilience. Keep going you've got this 💪💗
We were never on that hamster wheel never in debt, apart from the mortgage, we lived our life and have lost so called friends BUT so what we are happy. Now people look at us in our retirement as if we are rich, we are not. We cruise we travel ,we own a small car we live. On Friday we are celebrating 50 years of marriage by renting a self catering house for our family for a week. Let the Joneses keep up with you. Live the life you can afford and enjoy every moment. As my husband would say “ because you are worth it”😊
You live well because you saved
Jane, an amazing video as usual. I get a bit irritated with people who just buy buy buy. I'm happy with my charity shop clothes, my old second hand car which hardly uses any petrol and our mortgage free life. I do everything you say but its lovely to be reminded that it's not just me who thinks like that. Best wishes from a frugalist in cornwall.
Hello from us to you too
I enjoy your straightforward encouragement based in reality. We’ve been frugal throughout our 24 years of marriage, but I feel the need to double down now and increase our savings and conserving as we still have some of our mortgage to pay off. We’ve talked a lot this summer with our two university kids about the $5, $10, $15 decisions that add up over time. I think it is easier to skip a lot of those little expenses when you’re content with your life and activities at home. We’re trying to continue modeling that contentment and prudent living to all of our children.
Yes, I am getting more frugal by the month. I am working on not wasting anything
You're doing brilliantly Dawn
Thanks
When I was younger I thought budgets were too restrictive. I regret that. Now I realize that debt free living provides true freedom. Please pay off everything you owe as soon as you can. It is never too late to free yourself from debt.
A budget gives us permission to spend
Don't wear make up must have saved hundreds. Great video.
I'm working hard to be frugal. I'm a natural spender and a " mother squirel " like we say here. I don't use credit since 1 year now and it sooooo less stressful!!! I'm still working on repairing damages, though. What I find hard is to do it alone. Like you say, frugality is hard work, but doing it alone takes so much time!!! That's why I'm grateful for my little house on my little yard where I can do gardening to my scale and preserving to my scale. But we no accountability partner, it's hard to be good all the time. The "no credit rule" is particularly useful there!!! Thank you so much for your channel!!!
You're doing great
Ooh, that was a ranty one Jane! I have to say that I share your opinions on everything you talked about.
Most of the time, being frugal is easy, but there are those times when I slip up, albeit in a considered way. Last weekend I had a friend stay at my place who I hadn't seen since before the pandemic. We were at church for a long time on Sunday morning, then we needed a quick lunch so I could get her back to Heathrow to catch the bus home to the midlands. The lunch cost more than I anticipated, but gave us the time to spend together and catch up. (She had gone to bed very early Saturday night because she was jet lagged from flying in from doing some work in Thailand.) I don't consider that a waste of money, because a friendship of 30 years needs some quality time together. A fantastic embroiderer has produced some beautiful but expensive kits. I really want one, but can't justify the expense, so am holding fire on that one.
Frugality for myself is a habit after 35+ yrs. But it can still be challenging and sometimes not easy or comfortable.
I think it's like every other skill set, you have to keep working at it. Keep gaining knowledge through education.
I think you & channels like yours help the frugal folks and want to be frugal folks....to be in the know about different ways to approach the best frugal life.
Our challenge here in the US and maybe other countries also, is the prices of homes have gone up astronomically. What was once a $200,000 home is now $600,000. Along with that comes people like me that own my home and now my yearly county home tax is probably going to increase by 25% just bc of market value increase.
🙄 Frugality has taught me how to handle it, but it's not comfortable to pay more money when I changed zero on my house.
I do agree that it is hard. My most challenging thing is that we live rurally and selection of fresh food is horrible outside of local growing season. So I find myself buying large quantities of fruits and vegetables on clearance and stocking my shelves with canning jars, or dehydrated or freeze dried items in order to have what I want during the other 8 months of the year. Also when I find meats half off through the Flashfood app, I buy all that I can get, and then freeze it, in portions for future meals (where I have controlled the cost). I rationalize it as my budgeting for groceries . But admittedly I have enough now for about 12-18 months. 😮 We are doing a no spend August and September though, and I have not bought any groceries since July 12th. Now it's garden harvest and meals from our stores time. But I admit I am drawn by the discounted prices on items that we eat regularly. But we never eat out, nor do we carry credit card debt. And after 16 years of owning the same vehicle that was dragging its axles behind it, we traded it in for our next work horse vehicle. That we did get a 1.9% loan for 4 years, but we will have it paid off early, and we still have our emergency fund, and we are investing 10% of our retirement income monthly. But I can't wait to get that weight off our plate, hate debt. We do use credit cards for all purchases and bills, but I check every quarter for which one offers the best rewards. I currently get 3% back on utility bills, phone, and internet. And I get 3% back on travel and transportation. For all other purchases I get 2% back, even on medical, dental, and optical services. We belong to Costco, and have their credit card, and by doing that it covers our membership fees with rewards and gives us 3% back on gas, and 4% back on purchases. They offer the cheapest gasoline prices as well as the best price on organic vegetables within 2 hours of us. Shopping is something that neither of us enjoys. And with the nearest grocery store being 35-45 minutes away, and Costco is 1 hour away on a good day (otherwise 90 minutes),we keep a running list of low on items, or out of items, and we wait until we have an appointment in that area before we go. At 15 months old our car has less than 8000 miles on it. And 3300 of those miles were to visit my mother last year in Florida after the hurricane hit, and driving with supplies was the best option. Frugal living for us is a way of life and we got even more intentional about our spending when we left the work force in 2016. We choose where we want to spend our discretionary money carefully. And we couldn't be happier. But no one understands us, or how we choose to live, well except for 2 of my 3 children, they get it.
Thanks very much
Jane you are so so right
we are retired and staying in a very remote fishing club for 6 months - food is close to double cost and fuel for boat is expensive too but at least we are eating lots of fish and mud crab and saving on normal stuff we can't access like movies, hardware store, garden nursery, etc. Being creative with food and drink prep, having friends byo around a fire, listening and watching the birds, enjoying our boat trips with picnic lunches. living the dream on a budget!!
So well said
that's so true. Difficult when even your family members cannot get out this debt-ridden vicious circle and money becomes a prison for them.
Absolutely, you are right, they still don't care. I cannot imagine myself overspending now when inflation is the issue. I have savings but this doesn't entitle me just to waste it for no reason. Adam from Wales ❤
Diolch Adam
I think similarly, but there is also the issue of economies and businesses relying on people spending in their shops, cafes etc. If everyone curbed their spending businesses would suffer and a lot of people would be out of work. I’m a bit of both. I am careful with money and I try to avoid waste, but I also buy ‘nice to have’ things. Frugality is good to always bear in mind, to whatever degree of it works for you.
Thank you Deirdre from you Lovley reply Xxx
I love this video Jane. You say it so clearly. No nonsense. ❤
Thank you so much!
Being frugal is easier now that we are much older and retired. Our wants are few, so we aren't tempted by stores and stuff. The food budget was always the hard one for me, but after following your budget plan and tips, I finally have a handle on it. Thank you, Jane and Mike for being a true inspiration to so many.
Love that!
Thank you both for another thought provoking and honest video! My husband and I are presently saving up for some necessary major repairs on our house and are watching our pennies. Although I work two jobs I am still finding the time to make as much as I can from scratch at home. Like you, Jane, I am gluten free, so my bread machine is a life saver (gluten free bread is just ridiculously expensive in the stores). I even used it the other day to culture my vegan yogurt! Years ago my in-laws got us a pasta machine and I can use it not only for homemade pasta but gluten free bread sticks, bagels and pretzels ( especially since,as you know, gluten free dough is much softer and more batter like than dough made with regular flour). One of your latest videos inspired me to make a quilt top for an old comforter that developed holes I couldn't mend. It won't be as lovely as yours, but quite serviceable 😊
Love your common sense advice and thoughts! I recommended uour vlog to Larry and Hope Ware of the vlog, Under the Median, another great frugal couple.
I know them well.
Thank you Miss Jane for encouraging us!
Good talk. I have seriously cut down on spending due to the soaring costs in Oz. As a home cook I eyeball a recipe and check the prices of the ingredients. Many recipes can be adapted and extra serves placed in the freezer. I find this strategy saves money and time on busy days. I am planning to make September a low or no spend month, so stocking up on the meals.
Look forward to seeing more of the garden. Enjoy the weekend with Mike and the doggies🎉😊
Another great video Jane.
I'm in hospital now after new hip surgery. I live upstairs but have to live downstairs on my return home as chances of hip dislocation are a minimum of twelve weeks. So I had to buy two new king single beds, one for me & a helper to sleep there. Then bought bed raisers as I can't bend forward or down. Grab rail for bed, mattress protectors, dressing stick , sock puller upper, grabber/reachers, sheets to fit beds, shower chair, over the toilet seat, meals on wheels, can't bend down to oven or reach top cupboard. All unforseen expenses. Then there's cleaning, washing - can't bend down to washing machine or hang out clothes or use dryer.Extra pain medication for home. Herbs, vegetables & fruit are upstairs garden. Unable to walk upstairs for weeks. Helper needed to feed poultry & cat - can't bend down to change their water or clean out their house. I can access superannuation but wouldn't last fifteen or twenty years - father died at 97. I' m 32 years younger so will have to rent out upstairs - then capital gains tax if selling. Saw a suitable house to move to not in flood or bushfire area but another offer was accepted. There are so many baby boomers in similar circumstances with maintenance costs & few accessible places suitable to move to. Then moving costs, stamp duty, agent fees, etc. Always unforseen bills to save for a rainy day. The older you get, the more it costs.
Thankfully I'll never have those expenses here, our insurance system covers that
I had had enough pre-covid so that worked out well. I didn't "go back" to crazy spending as I realized years ago that shopping was just a hobby. I was filling in space with time and in my home. Wish I had done that much sooner but eventually I caught on. If you are younger than me I hope you catch on when you can make a much bigger impact on your current and your future financial security. Enjoy life of course but reconsider throwing your money away.
Thanks for sharing!!
Hello from Seattle, Washington. I love your video's like this. They help me stay on track, and inspire me to be present and really think about my purchases.
You are so welcome!