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Is it only me that feels hopeless when it comes to my finances or do others get the same feeling from time to time? I really have been working hard at getting everything into order, but it just doesn't seem to be possible. What do you do when you start to feel (or always feel) this way?
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Re: Hopelessness
I know what you mean!...just today, coming back from filing my taxes, I was thinking: will it ever be different?? will I really reach the point when life isn't a struggle, financially?? will this ever end?? -
Re: Hopelessness
Been there. Done that. Still doing that. (Take a look at my posts under "dental insurance" . . . .it doesn't take too many unexpected major expenses before I'm tempted to skip the whole "living frugally" thing. What's the point?) Anyway, here are some things that help me: 1) Talk to friends/family/this board/ whatever. You'll find out your not alone. 2) Find _something_ to give away -- money, property, clothes, toys, whatever. I find giving something away reminds me that my money and things are mine to steward and NOT the other way around. When I remember that my things aren't in control of me it goes a long way toward combatting hopelessness. 3) Have a social gathering that's all but free just to prove you can have a good time without spending money. (One of my favorites is having another family over to play games. Popcorn + a 2 liter of pop = $2 and the fun lasts all night.) Just me thoughts. Good luck!Comment
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Re: Hopelessness
I know what you mean too, but I don't have an answer for you! Sure wish I did, then I'd be able to help myself. I always look at things differently when I remember that I have so much more than a lot of people I know. But then I feel down because they're in a worse situation than me. I don't like that my parents struggle to get by! (I help when I can) I'm fortunate to have everything I need at the moment. I have a roof over my head, people who love me, food to eat, a decent job, etc. You just have to keep stuff like that in mind I guess. Hang in there! I do really think it will get better.... some day!Comment
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Re: Hopelessness
You're right, dmontngrey....I was just listening to NPR on the way home from work, and heard a story about a couple in India who digs through garbage heaps all day finding stuff to sell and they make $1.50 a day. It made my crappy day at work seem like a luxury.
There is a light at the end of the tunnel...keep reminding yourself of that. The tunnel might be 15 years long, but that light is still there, and you WILL reach it. Keep focused on the goal, and try not to wallow in misery.
Sometimes a jog or an hour of yoga helps me put things back into perspective. Sometimes I have to crawl in bed and cover up my head. Just don't let yourself stay there too long, pull yourself out of the depths and remember the good things you have in life!Comment
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Re: Hopelessness
Kashi, I heard the same heartbreaking segment on NPR tonight, and it really hit home with me too. It was so sad to hear the man interviewed say that while had not expected to ever become a 'big man' (in other words, rich and privileged), he had always figured there would be more for him in life than to dig through garbage day in and day out, 12 hours a day/7 days a week, to make the most meager of livings. So much misery in the world -- made me thank my lucky stars....Comment
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Re: Hopelessness
I am feeling hoplessness today. Some days are really good & others are bad but the good are now outweighting the bad we bought a new sofa today so we spent alot thats why I am so depressed today about money. Makes me sick to spend alot. BUt I have really cut out alot like not buying clothes anymore & am now stockpiling things for free & am working pt & am gonna start having garage sales again very soon for extra money so things are mainly on the up & up.Comment
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Re: Hopelessness
I have my health and I have my family. It is true that unexpected expenses can drive you nuts but keep it in perspective. Folks we are communicating on computers here. We have a roof over our head. We have food on the table. Things may be rough but sure and steady wins the race.
My last journal post expressed my feelings about unexpected expenses. I will not give in and accept defeat! There is ALWAYS hope!Comment
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Re: Hopelessness
Boy am I with this thread! I feel hopeless almost constantly -- and I so despirately seek peace where finances are concerned. I think now that I'm really starting to pay attention to it, I see how hopeless it all is and don't know where to go. I think my DH and I really need to seek a Financial Councelor's advice to get things started in the right direction because every pay (and I mean EVERY pay) we end up robbing Peter to pay Paul. I used to not worry about that and just get money from CCs or start using them once the "real" money ran out. But now that I can't do that anymore, I see what a mess we're really in and how hopeless it seems to dig our way out of it. I'm tired of being broke 3 days after payday.Comment
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Re: Hopelessness
I totally my hopeless days, last night I even dreamed about not having enough money at the grocery store. So long as I don't look at my finances I am OK, but then if I don't look I don't stay as frugal!
I think it is all about attitude, somedays I have a lousy one, but others my son will thank God for the celing, and floor, or books and I will get a better attitude.Comment
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Re: Hopelessness
I had a dream last night. That someone told me that my Mom (who recently passed away) owed $788.00, payable on the spot!!...I remember the anguish of trying to figure out where I was going to get $788!!
On the other hand, DD told me last night at dinner that I will have "lots and lots of money, Mom, a housefull of money...big as this house!" ((sigh)) I wish I could have her faith!!Comment
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