I am the worst person to trust with money. I’ve never been able to grasp the fact that if I spend my money, I will have that much money less in the bank. Lately, though, I’ve begun to understand that it’s not right that I should depend so heavily on my dad for my own needs. I actually want to have my own money – MINE, as in I earned it on my own. This realization wasn’t received as warmly as I thought it would. My dad, the typical alpha male, got offended, and ranted about how I think I’m not providing enough for them, and how he never says no when I ask him for anything.
But that’s the problem!! He never says no – NEVER NEVER NEVER. And that’s what’s gonna put me on the fast lane to bankruptcy if I don’t get my act together.
After a lot of arguing and slammed doors, it was agreed that I would get a summer job. FINALLY! you would think that at 19 years old, I’d have already passed that stepping stone in life, but no-hoooo.
Also, I’m very glad that my partial scholarship of the previous year has now been extended to a full one, which basically pays the full amount of tuition and a comfy living allowance. This takes me a step – actually several steps – closer to my goal of financial independence from my dad.
Financial independence is too abstract, though. I like numbers, facts and lists (love the lists!). My goal this year (or maybe two years hehe) is to open up a savings account when I go back to college, and save 5000 dollars. It is not going to be easy. It’s going to mean a lot of eating in, waiting for sales, and general thriftiness.
One thing I have noticed is that the bulk of my income (well, my dad’s income) goes towards eating out. Three weeks ago I started my other goal of losing 60 pounds which means I haven’t been to a restaurant or bought anything readymade since then. And it’s amazing how much extra money I have to spend!!!! That’s a good tip for everyone ;)
