WHOA, it’s been a while. Bad, bad writer.
While it isn’t commendable that I’ve taken such a long break from writing here, the reason is positive: I’ve been swamped these last few months with freelance work. Huzzah for being financially solvent!
Although my bank accounts are fatter (and happier) due to this development, I haven’t had much free time for extracurriculars (or writing for myself).
I know what you’re thinking: boohoo, the writer has been busy with paid work. Cue ugly cry.
Anyway, I thought I’d take a moment to check in on my 2015 savings goals since it is July and all (I know, I know, where has 2015 gone?!?).
Save For a New Laptop
Original Goal: $1,100 in 30 Days
Actual: $1,650
This short-term goal was wildly successful. After spending more time than I’d care to admit typing away on my ancient white Macbook, it more-or-less kicked the bucket. When your laptop responds with the spinning wheel of doom when you’re merely trying to load Facebook, it’s time to throw in the towel and get a new machine.
So, a couple of months ago I marched myself (and all my pennies) down to the local Apple store and bought a new 13-inch Macbook Air. All I can say is that this is the best decision I’ve made in many moons. I’m able to be more productive, get more assignments done in a day, and not want to chuck my computer across the room out of frustration. These are happy times I live in.
Top Up Emergency Fund
Original Goal: 8,000 by the end of 2015
Actual: $8,000 by end of July
So, I’m pretty darn proud of this one. I set a goal of topping up my emergency fund (which I originally started last year while paying off all my debt) so that it could cover six month’s worth of bare-bones expenses should something unexpected occur. After some serious hustling, I’ll more than meet this goal.
Based on my income projections, I’ll have saved this total by the end of this month. So you best believe I’ll be doing the happy money dance once my account reflects that number. Whoop whoop!
Secret Savings Fund
Original Goal: $6,000 in 6 months
Current: TBD
So, this isn’t such a secret anymore. My partner and I recently got engaged, and we want to save some cash for a small elopement in Las Vegas.
We haven’t yet met this goal, but don’t fret fellow goal-oriented savers: it’s merely because we’re revising it. We have some big details to nail down before we set a budget, and the timeline for save will be far longer than six months. But I still plan to set a budget and stick to it. I refuse to go into debt again, even for our nuptials.
Anyone else hit any stellar financial milestones these last few months? I’d love to hear about it in the comments. 🙂