January 2018 in Review

For the month of January, I gave up Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, and going out to eat for lunch. Because 1.) It's healthier and 2.) to save some money.

After two of my friends had to have their gallbladders taken out, it has really lit a fire in me to take my health more seriously. And as I grow older and have other goals in mind (going back to school part-time, buying a house, etc.), I need to manage my finances better.

As you can tell by the smile on my face - and the fact that I took the effort to match my lipstick to my pink drink - that I surely missed Starbucks after 31 days of resistance. There were a few moments when I really wanted to give in and get a drink as I exited Target with a Starbucks conveniently by the front door; or when I was too lazy to cook anything to bring to work in the morning.

But after 31 days of resistance and taking the responsibility to utilize my kitchen, and tabulating how much I've saved, it was a VERY worthwhile experiment. From this challenge it's reinforced a few things I already knew, but sort of re-learned:

1.) I don't NEED to go to Starbucks or Dunkin' Donuts. I can make drinks myself. It's just a weekly treat that's nice to have, but only in moderation. If you think you NEED a drink or snack from a chain because it's conveniently right there or has a rewards system - think again. You don't NEED it. You only WANT it.

2.) Save yourself some money and cook your own lunch. You will not only be more creative in the kitchen, but also appreciate more your own home-cooking. Plus you'll know what you're putting into your body as opposed to anything from the surrounding chain restaurants.

3.) Moderation isn't always easy, but it's pretty much always worth it in my opinion. It will be hard at first, but you can do it. There is no excuse.

-Chelle