This week, I couldn't work. "The Sick" hit our house and took me out of commission, resulting in 80% of my average weekly income just not happening.

While this is the reality for many people the last two years particularly, it was a first for me. 

So in the spirit of full disclosure, I wanted to map out what something like this looks like in my household's budget.

While not public knowledge (as it's something frowned upon in the etiquette books to discuss), in the pursuit of happiness, my husband and I both took pay cuts during the 4th quarter of 2021. We know very well that a decision like this is a luxury many cannot afford, and we’re grateful for the ability to do so. I would definitely challenge anyone able to do so, to put happiness before money whenever given the opportunity. 

Our budget needed a facelift, and our spending in some areas needed to slow down. We got everything buttoned up last weekend - and BOOM, I got sick.

So dollar for dollar, I figured out where we’re going to make up the difference, and not need to dip into our savings.

1. Meal planning with what’s in the house already. I may not WANT what's sitting in the deep freezer, but that's what we’re having the next couple weeks. I’ve got some roasts to cook, plenty of frozen veggies and a pantry full of soup to enjoy. I can easily cut our grocery expenses by 50% the next 2 weeks by only getting necessities. 
2. Miscellaneous spending is out. Yes, I WANT this super cute sweater I saw on sale, but I don’t need it and $40 is $40. 
3. I scheduled Valentine’s Mini Sessions. I normally don’t do many minis, but hey - I’ve got money to make. 
4. If I come up short, I’ll put less into savings this month. It’ll suck, it’ll be a hiccup in my plans, but I’m fortunate to have that money to play with.

I can already hear the “yeah but you had money to start with” comments. Yes, we did. But we didn’t always, and that is when we had to get control of our budget and have uncomfortable conversations about spending. While I’m grateful for all we have, I remember 7 years ago like it was yesterday: One income, two mortgages and all our expenses…. It wasn’t pretty.

I encourage everyone to take a look at their budget and see where you can have wiggle room. Be honest with yourself, and have the hard talks.

If you need help, Budget Boot Camp is starting Monday!