- Only put $300 of my paycheck in my checking account each payday. I did pretty well with this. I’m a little over 1/3 of the way to my goal in my emergency fund, over halfway to the amount I want in my regular savings, and every little bit that I can add to my down payment is awesome. I’ve been moving money around whenever I think about it, but I need to be better about being on top of it.
- Seriously look for an apartment. I did not do this, because I’ve decided that I would rather buy a house! It’s a huge decision, but I’ve been unable to find an apartment that has everything I want for a price I can afford. I’m going to paying a lot more in rent to get what I want and I would much rather being a mortgage than rent. I’m really excited about going house hunting!
- Try one new recipe each week. I’ve done really well with this! I set this goal because I was getting complacent with my menu planning and then is really helping me keep our dinners fresh and interesting.
- Get up 15 minutes early every day for my quiet time. I’ve failed miserably at this goal. I tried very hard at the beginning of the month, but it’s very clear that I’m not a morning person. I’ve been doing my devotions at night, but not journaling like I had planned. I’m going to keep trying, because it takes 28 days to make a good habit and this would be a really good habit for me.
- Clean out my closet. Oops. I actually forgot I set this goal until right now. I guess we know what I’ll be doing over Labor Day…
Do you set goals? How did you do this month?
{ 2 comments… read them below or add one }
I like these goals a lot, and I have a couple tips for number 2, since I just went through this!
First, don't listen to everyone. You can't! EVERYONE will have an opinion (myself included!!) so watch out for that.
Also, I would highly recommend that you go to a mortgage broker for your mortgage. There really is a huge difference in someone who is doing this for a commission and someone who is basically a teller at a bank. I'd recommend the broker.
Also, when you are looking, and I'm assuming you'll be looking at a condo or townhouse, you want to be sure to think about resale. You won't be in this house forever, and condos and townhouses are difficult to sell (so, if you can, get a house!) so you'll want to be aware of that so you can sell it easily when the time comes.
Most importantly, don't settle! Visit a bunch, narrow things down then visit them again, and be sure that you are happy with your choice. It really is one of those things where you just know it when you see it. But don't go with your initial reaction. Always walk away and visit again, because if we had gone with the one I thought I loved, we wouldn't have chosen the wonderful house we did decide on…the better of the two.
Keep us posted on your progress though! And you can always ask me for advice, since I just went through it! It's a crazy, bumpy ride, but it's a fun one, too!
This is great advice! Thanks so much for sharing. And believe me, I will be asking you for your opinion. 🙂 Friends who just went through this are the best sources for information I think.