We finally got started on our budgeting with Monarch. It’s been about 3 years since we’ve been consistent with a detailed monthly budget, and some of the numbers were eye opening. I am still getting used to the platform but I spent a good amount of time on it yesterday. I’m feeling pretty optimistic about reducing our spending with groceries and eating out, but with 2 full time working parents I know it won’t be easy. If you’ve been on this journey, what are some other categories you have reduced spending in your budget? What was easiest and what was hardest?

Would you please create a post in here and tell us about: - One moment that felt empowering - One moment that still felt challenging - One thing this challenge has already taught you about yourself - One unexpected benefit that you’ve experienced since starting this challenge

Hello 👋 my husband and I worked hard years ago to pay off all of our debt but since then we have struggled to save anything “extra” for savings, emergency fund, vacations, etc. we live on a single budget but it is very tight already. We don’t have gym memberships, we rarely eat out and I make a lot from scratch. It somehow still feels like we are in a hole so I proposed to my husband to do a no buy year when Melissa shared about it! I could use some motivation and accountability because I easily justify spending on “needs” and things to help our family be healthier. I want to do this because I really want to see how much we can save, and to break my spending habits (which are enough to keep us trapped). It is definitely an experiment and i have already noticed how mentally challenging it is! I’ve caught myself (already!!!) doing a great job at justifying purchases. Instead, I have shared my thoughts with my husband (painfully 😅) and asked him to be really nice in his response because I know some of it is ridiculous but I am trying to shift and grow! He chuckled and has been really kind and helpful in redirecting my thoughts for free solutions. Id rather spend my time creating than consuming and exploring with my children and family. I am very negatively affected by clutter and being a SAH-homeschooling mom, my home is my job in many facets. Id like my home to be less overstimulating and I know a root of that is stopping the inflow of items. My goal is the year. Im curious as to how others have set up their rules on when buying is okay, and how you plan to do birthdays and other holidays throughout the year?

How is everyone doing today and this week? Have you struggled with anything? Things are mostly good over here, aside from my youngest (5) and I getting hit with a fever/cough late yesterday. We're both feeling better today but not 100%, so today has been a lot of coloring and Bluey watching! I would love it if we could start a "Feel Good Friday" post where everyone posts one of their "wins" or positive benefits to being in the challenge! Maybe that's money saved, time saved, improved relationships, whatever! I am going to add "categories" to our community so that it's easier to see posts, so please feel free to use these on your future posts! 🏆Wins ❓Questions/Advice 👋Intros 😀Fun ✅Check-Ins

Hi everyone! Writing from Tennessee with a renewed energy to control my spending, reduce the clutter and show my kids what good and intentional spending habits look like. I am a mom of 3 and as other parents know, the pressure to have the "next cool thing" and the clutter that comes with giving in to that relentless pressure - it's all very consuming. I'm on a personal journey to control my urge to spend, thereby saving money for family trips and home renovations. These first 2 weeks have been so fulfilling AND I'm so proud of myself for the progress and mindset shift already. Anyone else delete the Amazon app from your phone this year? Curious also - if anyone had Amazon Prime and has opted to cancel their subscription. I'm considering the idea that having the subscription is enabling my spending to some extent... "Well, shipping is free anyway..." Cancelling my Prime is something I'm thinking of. Open to your thoughts or experiences! Silly photo added for fun. :)