I just turned 20, live at home, and attend community college! I have regrets about how I spent money today and yesterday! I know I can’t change what I spent money on but is it normal to have these regrets? Today I ordered pizza from papa Johns because it was 50% off, I bought a can of fruit punch becuase it was only 40 cents, and I got a candy bar! In the past,I’ve spent money eating out frequently, ordering pizza once a week whether there were deals or not, getting snacks from the convenience store(more expensive than the grocery store), buying video games, buying and renting movies, buying food here and there at the grocery store because I worked at a grocery store and can’t stay away from food, and I still do these things in moderation but buying things whether cheap or not is still spending money. Buying something even if it’s cheap isn’t always the right thing to do! I work and make my own money! My concept of personal finance comes from Dave Ramsey and from someone I know who is good with money but is also good in his academics so this made me think there was a correlation between being smart in school and being smart with money. What should I do moving forward? Do I need to give any more details?
Dave Ramsey is an excellent resource for learning good personal finance habits. I suggest you read his “Total Money Makeover” and develop a budget as he describes.
@TQfromtheU I have EveryDollar and have not read the total money makeover, his other books, or any of his personalities books such a study retire inspired, love your life not theirs, or smart money smart kids but I have money saved up! How much money should I have saved by age 25 so I can start saving for retirement at 25? Is it ok to eat out, buy video games, and rent movies in moderation? It seems it’s easier for people to save money who have family who will buy them what they need and want or can stay away from video games, movies, and eating out! I know I sound critical but I need some guidance with my finances so I don’t feel bad about the choices I make!
I believe that once you are over 18, you get to decide what kind of life you want. You set your goals, plan the steps. Start where you are.
The books are usually at the library and you can sometimes get audio books to listen to. Smart Money Kids might be a good start since you don’t have major responsibilities, then get Total Money.
Once you do your budget like the books say, you will know what you have decided is a OK amount to spend on other things and still reach your goals.
I think you need to calm down. You sound like you’re freaking out in all of your posts. I’d seriously suggest going to a counselor for anxiety.
I don’t think a can of fruit punch is a good substitute for soda. You are supposed to try and drink healthier alternatives. Or are you sincere about all of these posts? If you arent going to heed any advice, well-meaning people are wasting their time.
@Lindagaf I’m doing my best to get soda out of my diet! I’ve had no soda days and the days I’ve been drinking soda I’ve only done it in moderation! Changing habits takes time!
Fruit punch is basically flavored sugar water. Water is free. I agree with @romanigypsyeyes, your posts sound like you may need to see a professional therapist.
But am I a loser if I’m not perfect with money! @CottonTales I once had a therapist that I didn’t like and when I asked about this topic he got rude about it! I’ve had therapists that I like and don’t like!
No one can seem to answer the main Question! Can anybody please answer it and share experiences?
The answer to your question depends on the person.
But from my personal experience, I have a habit of ordering clothes online more often than I should (yes I sometimes fall into being the stereotypical female who loves shopping lol). Mainly, whenever I see that a clothing company is having a sale with free shipping, I always end up getting something. I do regret doing this sometimes because I could spend my money for more “important things”. But at the same time, it’s my money. I earned it, so I can spend it on things that make me happy.
My point is, it’s okay to spend money on yourself. Don’t waste too much time getting yourself worked up over nothing.
MODERATOR’S NOTE: I am closing the thread because I don’t think there’s anything else we can tell the OP.