by Hope
I’ve been noodling 2025. I’m not much for resolutions. Sticking to them is not my strong suit. We all know this. Here’s my first draft of my 2025 Quarter 1 thoughts…
- Savings to Handle the Ups and Downs of My Income
The recent roller coaster with my full-time contract has taken a toll—not just financially, but mentally too. I’ve felt the stress of juggling variable income and the uncertainty of what’s next. That’s why rebuilding my savings is my top priority for Q1. My goal is to save a minimum of 3months’ worth of living expenses, but I’ll do it in a way that still allows me to make progress on debt. Small, consistent savings transfers will keep me moving forward without feeling overwhelmed.
- Plan (and Fund) one more Home Renovation
Refinishing the hardwood floors has been lingering on my “to-do” list for too long. And it is the second larger item that the real estate agent suggested I complete. It’s the one final project I want to outsource to get the house ready for a future sale. In January, I’ll focus on getting three solid quotes, creating a realistic budget, and saving for it in cash. The goal here is simple: no new debt. I’ll time the project around a stronger income month and fund it intentionally, so I’m not playing catch-up later. - Keep Chipping Away at Consumer Debt
Paying off consumer debt is still one of my biggest priorities, but I’m being kinder to myself this time around. While I’ll keep throwing any “extra” income—like a strong contract month, small freelance gigs, or unexpected savings—at my debt, I won’t do it at the expense of rebuilding my savings. Balance is key.
Why Savings Comes First (But Not Only)
The instability of the last few months has been a wake-up call…again. I’ve felt the emotional weight of not knowing what’s next, and I don’t want to live in that cycle anymore. Having a cushion in savings will help me breathe easier, but I know I can’t lose sight of my other goals. So this quarter, I’m committed to finding the balance: saving for security, funding the last big house project, and continuing to chip away at debt—one dollar, one decision at a time.
Here’s to starting 2025 stronger, calmer, and more in control.
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.
Get health insurance should be on this list Hope. It should be before refinish floors in the house. It’s time to stop forecasting and create a budget and two of the line items should be insurance and out of pocket health care costs.
Im confused how you don’t have a 3 month emergency fund yet? Your income shot up exponentially, how did nothing get put away at all? You have zero business paying rent for a college child simply so she doesn’t have to have roommates when you don’t even have 3 months emergency fund available you. Having roommates, learning to get along with others and respect differences in situations, upbringings etc is an important part of growing up. When you can pay your own way, you can live on your own. On another note, refinishing floors means moving out for weeks, along with removing all furniture. Your animals will also immediately scratch the new flooring. Ask your realtor about putting in cheap carpet for the whole house but advertise that there are original hardwood floors underneath. It is still my opinion that selling your home before you have your consumer debt paid off and a hefty savings accounts AND real health insurance is a massive mistake.
I really wish you would share how much you have saved in an emergency fund currently and what your goal is. It is hard to understand your situation with these vague ideas.