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Browsing posts in: Personal Finance

Phew – What a month – Income!

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I had great intentions of posting so much last month. And then, well work!

Here’s a glimpse, a partial glimpse of how my month went work-wise.

Client #1

Screenshot of invoices to clients for July

And this is invoicing to one client. Ignore the Overdue note, that is a payment plan for a website. He’s paid 50% down, but the other two payments are due as milestones are hit. I should receive the remainder by the end of August.

This is my newest client. He’s also my lowest paying client right now. (Well, since client #3 gave me a raise last week.) But makes up for that in volume. He’s been with me since March.

Client #2

I actually got to meet this client in person during a long weekend trip to Chicago. Don’t worry, the whole trip cost me less than $70. I used points for the flight, paid for one meal for Princess and I, and staying with her in her hotel that her new job is paying for.

My client paid for all my other meals outside of breakfast which was included with the hotel. And he drove me to and from the office. Win-win!

This client has been with me since February. Some week’s are great. And some are silent. He pays me $60 per hour these days.

Client #3

I actually got a raise this past month, but won’t see it in my income until this month. But went from $20/hr to $40/hr – woot, woot! I only work between 2-7 hours per week for this client. But it’s been steady since either February or March. And I genuinely enjoy the work. And the people. (I really enjoy all my work and all the people with few exceptions.)

Other Clients

I’ve got 1/2 dozen or so other clients that are hit and miss every month for hours or projects. But these three above have been with me since this past spring. And they are all growing in hours, responsibility, and money. But phew, this has been a busy month.

Income Overall

Hopefully this gives you some insight into my income. For July, I received the amounts listed for clients #2 and #3, for client #1, I received a $2,500 deposit for a web project and just at $3,000 for June work.

About a 1/3 of all income goes to the government in one form or fashion. And the rest to budgeted items. I’ll get an update for my savings and debt out this week. *crossing fingers that I have a moment to breathe.

And I’ll finish that series on where the house money went too. Promise I’ve just been slammed with work! A good thing that I am so grateful for.

 

 

5 Glow Up Tips To Elevate Your Looks, Health, and Wallet

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A glow-up isn’t just about physical appearance—it’s a holistic transformation that touches on your health, personal style, and financial well-being. By adopting a few strategic habits, you can elevate your overall lifestyle and feel more confident in every aspect of your life. From skincare routines to small budget-friendly changes, a glow-up is about making subtle yet impactful improvements that help you feel your best, inside and out. Here are five simple tips to get you started on your journey to a complete glow-up.

Tip 1: Prioritize Oral Health

Oral health plays a huge role in your overall appearance, yet it’s often overlooked. As you age, taking good care of your teeth becomes even more important. In fact, around 30% of adults between 65 and 74 years old have no natural teeth. Investing in regular dental check-ups, flossing, and brushing with quality toothpaste can enhance your smile and overall health. Not only will this improve your appearance, but it will also save you money on costly dental procedures in the future. Being proactive with your oral health can also prevent you from spending large amounts of money down the road on major dental work.

Tip 2: Dress For Confidence

Fashion is a simple yet effective way to elevate your looks. According to Blue Cotton, cotton is stronger when wet than dry, which is an interesting fact when considering the durability and comfort of fabrics. Choosing the right clothing—ones that fit well and suit your personality—can make a huge difference in how you feel and how others perceive you. You don’t need an extravagant wardrobe; investing in a few key pieces can help you project confidence and elevate your overall style without spending too much money. By purchasing clothing that offers both style and durability, you can save money in the long run by avoiding constant replacements.

Tip 3: Nourish Your Skin

Healthy skin is a key indicator of overall wellness. A good skincare routine, including cleansing, moisturizing, and using SPF, can transform your complexion over time. Skincare products that focus on natural ingredients work best to nourish and hydrate your skin, giving you that radiant glow. Staying hydrated, eating nutrient-rich foods, and avoiding harmful substances like smoking also support skin health. Consistent care can lead to noticeable improvements that boost both your appearance and your self-esteem, all while being cost-effective when you find affordable products that work for your skin. Saving money on expensive treatments can be as simple as investing in skincare products that align with your budget.

Tip 4: Develop Healthy Habits

Your overall health is one of the most important factors in any glow-up. Staying active through regular exercise, eating a balanced diet, and getting enough sleep are all essential for maintaining energy levels and a positive outlook. Regular exercise not only strengthens your body but can also improve your mental health. By prioritizing these habits, you’ll feel better physically and mentally, which can lead to increased productivity and better money management. Consider new hobbies as well, such as learning a new language. According to Social Sci LibreTexts, recent estimates suggest that approximately 7,000 languages are currently spoken worldwide in 196 countries. When you’re healthier, you’re able to handle work and life more effectively, saving both time and money in the process.

Tip 5: Manage Your Finances

Financial well-being is a crucial part of any glow-up journey. Managing your money wisely helps you avoid unnecessary stress and build wealth for the future. Whether it’s creating a savings plan, paying off debt, or investing in tools that improve your professional growth, your financial health directly impacts your overall lifestyle. By making smarter choices, like tracking expenses and cutting unnecessary costs, you’ll see improvements in your wallet and feel empowered to make better life decisions. Investing your money in the right places and staying on top of your finances will bring peace of mind and a greater sense of control over your future.

A glow-up is about more than just a makeover; it’s a total transformation that focuses on improving every area of your life. By prioritizing your oral health, updating your wardrobe, nourishing your skin, staying healthy, and managing your finances, you can elevate your looks, health, and wallet. Small, consistent changes over time will make a noticeable impact on your overall well-being. It’s time to invest in yourself and enjoy the benefits of a complete glow-up while managing your money wisely.