by Hope
Kicking off 2025 with a no spend month. This will be my first no spend month since being an empty nester. Evidently, I did a no spend January back in 2019. (See here: No Spend January – 2019 and Update on No Spend January – 2019.)
I’ve been fascinated by a slew of TikTok videos touting a no spend 2025…a year. It looks like a lot of people are struggling with finances and subsequently doing their best to button down and make better decisions. Most all have identified their own rules. And their own rewards for sticking to it. I love this on so many levels.
But I know better than to bite off more than I can chew. So I am sticking with my No Spend Month of January for now.
The Rules
Because of my “forecast” method, I know my required spend for the month.
| Utilities | $280 |
|---|---|
| Mortgage (February) | $1,015 |
| Cell Phone | $90 |
| Car Insurance | $480 |
| Credit Cards (min pymts) | $276 |
| Groceries (fresh veggies & fruits) | $40 |
| Total | $2,181 |
My goal is no deviation from this forecast for this month. No extra spending money, no eating out, and no entertainment.
Mortgage
My mortgage for January is already paid. I’ve been paying a month ahead and every month. So while I technically don’t have a mortgage payment due this month, I do want to maintain my 30 days ahead on this payment.
Groceries
I’ve given myself $10 per week for fresh veggies and fruits if needed. But I’m hoping I don’t need it. I have meal planned for the month. And don’t anticipate much activity that would require me to deviate from my plan. I also put an extra $40 for dog food should it be needed.
A Quiet but Exciting Month
Gymnast will visit Georgia this month. He will be spending a week here. And the #1 goal is to get the kids’ car titles (Gymnast and Princess) transferred to them. (This visit is only reason I anticipate needing gas; otherwise, I am not sure I would leave the house.) As I mentioned last month, he has paid off his car loan in its entirety. He now owns his car free and clear. I am so proud of him.
Hope is a resourceful and solutions-driven business manager who has spent nearly two decades helping clients streamline their operations and grow their businesses through project management, digital marketing, and tech expertise. Recently transitioning from her role as a single mom of five foster/adoptive children to an empty nester, Hope is navigating the emotional and practical challenges of redefining her life while maintaining her determination to regain financial control and eliminate debt.
Living in a cozy small town in northeast Georgia with her three dogs, Hope cherishes the serenity of the mountains over the bustle of the beach. Though her kids are now finding their footing in the world—pursuing education, careers, and independence—she remains deeply committed to supporting them in this next chapter, even as she faces the bittersweet tug of letting go.
Since joining the Blogging Away Debt community in 2015, Hope has candidly shared her journey of financial ups and downs. Now, with a renewed focus and a clear path ahead, she’s ready to tackle her finances with the same passion and perseverance that she’s brought to her life and career. Through her writing, she continues to inspire others to confront their own financial challenges and strive for a brighter future.
