Checking in! I extended our no buy challenge into March and so far this month has been SOOOOO much easier than the first month.

How is everyone doing this week? If you're still on the no-buy, how has it been going? If you're technically "done", how has it felt to be back in the world without your rules? Have you noticed any changes in your thinking?

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?

I've been really happy with our grocery budget this month, even with ordering it from Doordash one week due to our schedule (and approaching weather). I'm also very proud of our Amazon and Target spends, one was a legacy from December (Amazon) and the other was diapers from Target using a return credit and a $10 off coupon. I'm not a crazy couponer, but it was nice knowing I didn't buy something I wouldn't use or that would just collect dust. My word of the month is reset and I feel like between decluttering, using up what we already have, super-cleaning spaces that don't get a ton of attention, and our credit card bill significantly lower, I feel more like I can breathe. I've also used more things out of my pantry which clears out space and reduces food waste and spend. I do struggle sometimes with eating out but I did decide that if I am going with my friends, or a date with my kids or a special occasion once in awhile, we could do that. We also have our own guilt free accounts so I have used that when I am on my own with friends. It's been nice to see that account grow as well. One thing I did and didn't expect were some subscriptions that automatically were taken out. I've since marked one to not renew automatically and would like to review more of them to ensure I have control over what is paid. I decided to not renew Amazon Prime and I feel like that has saved me so many impulse purchases as well.

I believe many of you have now passed the 30 day mark! Big round of applause!! I know many of you are doing no-buy periods of 3, 6, or 12 months, and I totally encourage that! But I also want to celebrate your first 30 days! Please share with the community (and me!): - What changed for you during this month? - What habits do you not want to go back to? - What guidelines or boundaries would you like to keep? (Or are you continuing with a longer no-buy period?) - What was your biggest takeaway after 30 days? - How do you want your future shopping to feel?