by Hope
From the beginning I’ve thought that increasing my income was my best bet to speeding up my debt free journey. And with summer approaching and the kids being older, I thought it was the perfect time to explore that theory as a reality. And now it’s here! I start my new job…TODAY! Woohoo!
I’ll be working 12-15 hours a week, doing whatever needs to be done, and it’s outside my home. This is so huge. I haven’t worked outside of the house in almost 11 years. I’m excited about the ‘adult’ time, yes, I’m aware most people don’t go to work to have adult time. I’m excited to try something new where the possibilities of what I’ll get to learn are endless. And I’m excited to see what new responsibilities this may bring out in my kiddos.
My youngest has struggled the most with the idea, but when I reminded him that 1) I would be away less hours then he spends in the gym for him competitive gymnastics and 2) if I go in the mornings, I would be back before the kids get up (yes, we are all night owls.) It will take a few weeks to really see what kind of income this will bring in, especially since I’m going to max out the tax they can take out, but then I’ll have to come up with a plan for using it wisely! I’m thinking a 40/40/10/10 split – 40% towards debt, 40% towards savings, 10% fun money and 10% giving.
I’m just so excited about the possibilities!
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.
Congrats on the new job, Hope!
12 – 15 hours sounds managable. Sounds like it’s the right decision.
Thanks, Kili, I’m really excited.
Congrats on the new job! Can’t wait to hear how it goes!
Sounds great! Congrats!
Congrats! The split sounds pretty good too. Hope it works out for you!
How wonderful! You must be so proud. Congratulations and best wishes.
Can you elaborate on why you are maxing out the tax withholding? Is this so you won’t have to make quarterly estimated payments? On the giving front, I know we had quite the discussion about it in another thread. You might consider holding off on giving financially and just on giving through time until you’re further along on your debt repayment. Taking the kids to the soup kitchen or donating good that you were able to get for free with couponing is just as impactful.
Walnut,
Since I am self employed and my income fluctuates with very little forecasting available, I am often caught unawares at tax time. While I know there are things I could do to remedy this, like over-paying, I’m just not inclined to give out free loans. So I hope by maxing this one out 1) I won’t come to expect it and 2) hopefully it will help with my tax bill next year.
I write about giving back this coming Saturday so stay turned to see my thoughts on that, but at this point I rarely give and never regularly any money as a donation.
Yay, Hope!! Sounds like its a good fit!
That’s fantastic! Congratulations! I agree that the hours sound very manageable! I think it really helps with the transition back to outside-the-home working when its part time (as opposed to jumping into a 40 hour/week job). I hope your first day goes well!
Thanks, Ashley, I don’t think I’ll ever get back into the ‘rat race’ as I love what I do from home too much and truly enjoy being home with my kids. But I am definitely excited about some part time work out of the house…
Congratulations Hope!