We all have reminders of why we’re sacrificing to pay off debt and plan for the future. This is the story of our reminder.
This couch is a symbol that reminds us why we’re skipping vacations, foregoing expensive outings, and even waiting on new furniture so that we can reach our financial goal of being weirdos without a mortgage.
What symbols remind you of your financial goals?
The Couch
When we were newly married a decade ago, my Mother-in-law discovered a giveaway couch along the side of the road. Seeing that the couch came from a “fancy” house and was lacking any apparent grime, she arranged for it to be brought to us.
It’s a beefy sleeper sofa with an uber-awesome heathered cream look (90’s style?). During the first two years of ownership we put a piece of plywood underneath the cushions to add firmness. My father-in-law also fashioned a wooden brace that was nailed across the back after we broke a supporting board.
The Symbol
Fast-forward two children and an increase in income. We decided to go shopping for a new couch. After searching through several furniture stores we decided that (a) furniture is very expensive, and therefore, (b) we’d need to find a great deal if we were going to consider this purchase.
We eventually found a well-made couch in our desired color (cream, we’re rather boring folk). This couch was in the “sale room” of a local furniture store. We could bring it home for $500. We agonized over the decision.
That couch was very nearly purchased on several occasions, but each time we resisted. We knew how hard we had worked to build up our savings and didn’t want to spend even $500 foolishly.
The Goal
Eventually we forgot about the new furniture and found a blanket to drape over the back of our couch. That accessory plus a couple of throw pillows, and we decided that a new couch could wait.
Each time a rambunctious boy jumps on that couch they’re reminded, “no new furniture until the mortgage is paid off!” I hope that they’ll understand the significance of the day that our home is decorated with new furniture.
What’s your symbol?
What symbols remind you of your debt goal? Is it:
- The “dream house” plans in the drawer (that you’re saving for so diligently)?
- The college diploma on your wall that reminds you to keep paying off Sally Mae?
- The peacefully sleeping toddler that reminds you why you’re carefully putting away college savings.
We’re each on a financial journey. We all have reminders of why we’re sacrificing to pay off debt and plan for the future.
Our roadside-giveaway couch is a reminder everyday of why we’re working so hard to payoff debt. Having a daily visual reminder gives our goals a boost when we’re tempted to slow down and join the ranks of normal. Find your reminders and stay weird with us!
What symbols remind you of your goals?
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This article was shared at Raising Homemakers & Living Well Spending Less
