What's going on?

[Harry00]

Yes, I'm an idiot. I have never been good with finances and have spent a lot of money foolishly. However, I have always been "a nice guy." Very friendly, doing favors for others etc. Well, six months ago I decided to quit spending foolishly and be more frugal on what I need to buy. I even pick up any change I find on the street. Well, Monday my card died. They gave me an estimate and I had enough to cover it. They called later and said it would be more and I still had enough (though barely). I felt really good.
But now I find myself not caring about others and being rather rude. I've never, ever been that way. What's going on?

[Broken Arrow]

I don't know what's going on, but what you are alluding to sounds like it's more than just money at work. Money in itself should not dictate one's own behavior. Rather, money should only be a means to live and propel one's own philosophy in life.

[Harry00]

Thank you. I needed that. You sound very wise.

[PrincessPerky]

Might be that you are noticing your own mistakes and seeing them in other people, it can be a very hard line to walk, not screwing up, but also not condeming those who do....

I have the same trouble a lot.

[Broken Arrow]

Originally Posted by Harry00

Thank you. I needed that. You sound very wise.

Yes, I have been told before that I can be quite a wise-ass.

[cschin4]

Well, misery loves company! So, when you were broke you probably had alot of people to commiserate with!
But, money is a tool. And, the way you use your money demonstrates the kind of person you are. If you think there is something inheritantly selfish or wrong about having enough to cover your bills, then maybe you need to rethink and understand your attitude towards money.
And, what in the above scenario was rude or uncaring?

[Harry00]

Well, I wasn't like rude or uncaring. But, I am usually a very talkative friendly guy and I found myself just thinking, thinking, thinking about money and not going out of my way to meet or talk to anyone.

And, this is really weird. After I posted this I was walking to the store. There is this guy on the corner. I mean I have been saying "Hello" to this guy for four years. The guy has never, I mean never, said anything back....
not even a nod. So today this guy sees me walking and he asks me where I'm going. I say "to the store." Then he asks me where my car is. I tell him.
Then he says he'll take my empty bottle to the store for me if I'd like.

This stuff freaks me out.

[Thrifty Ray]

I think when we are learning new behaviors we do tend to focus more intently on them... we just have to remember to balance that focus so that it does not become all consuming...

You are in charge of you...if you feel you are being less friendly or rude and dont want to, then make a conserted effort to stop. Reclaim your old, friendly self...set a few friendly, feel good-type goals each morning.

On a side note, it is a wonderful feeling to have saved for a rainy day when it starts to sprinkle!!! Good for you!

[Ima saver]

There are lots of really nice, friendly people on this site. Maybe you can make some new friendships. Good for you for starting to save!! Life will get better.