Learning to Play the Money Game

Posted on January 18, 2013 Updated on January 19, 2013

Regardless of how much we think we have grown, matured, or come into our own, we all understand that we must learn to play the game. It is not who has all the marbles that is declared the victor, but the winner is the one who finishes the game without sacrificing the marbles in neither his pocket nor his head. As I complete my first thirty days of my 90 Day Cash Only challenge, I am proud to report that I am still the proud owner of my marbles.

I am also proud to admit that I have become much better at playing the game. If no one ever told you, saving, having and earning money is game, please allow me to pop your bubble The trick in the victory is to come away with your scruples and increase your wealth with honesty. Nothing is more straightforward than living a cash only life. During this challenge, I put away my credit card, yes that is singular, and even put away my debit card. I went raw dog and did exactly as I was told, cash only. Now, I am cursing because I still have sixty bleeping days to go. But, I digress, back to the game.

Saving money is game. In this game of life, you need something in the bank. If you have ever seen an episode of Extreme Couponing, you know it can be addictive. Those women spend hours a day playing the saving money game. I am cool and cute; I do not have that kind of time to spend so that I can come out of the store with 12 boxes of Kotex, six cans of hair spray and spend $.86. I am not stupid though, so I modified my couponing, and set off to Bi-Lo. I was armed with $70 in cash and needed food for two weeks. It took me an hour and a half, but after the weekly meal deal, fresh fruits and veggies, a boat load of coupons that were doubled, plus my Bi-Lo bonus card, I spent $58.85. I also saved money and got a $.05 credit for each of my own shopping bags. I brought 3 and saved $.15. I earned $.20 on my Fuel Perks and can now take that off per gallon of gas. Oh hush, in this game, the object is to get more, spend less, and come home with something. I am now hip to the coupon game.

I met the Krazy Coupon Lady and printed coupons from there.

I visited the masters on saving with coupons.

I have free printable coupons.

I am proud to get Fruit Juice for $.58! It means more money in my pocket.

The object at the end of the 30 period, is to use only cash and keep a journal. My journal is live and I hope you are enjoying my journey. I am. Because I have learned a great deal about money and my spending habits. The next sixty days are going to be tough, because now I must pull my credit reports, have a conversation with my stalker, Sallie Mae, and review my insurance. I also have to donate 10% of my income to a charitable organization. If it is what I need to do to increase my wealth, then I will.

I am getting better at playing the game, and I am building up my marble stash. I am not afraid to move forward, size up some new opponents and head towards the championship. However, first, I need to take on some regional champs. Who’s got next?