I keep talking about my "new job", and suddenly I find myself three months away from my one-year anniversary of employment. And it occurs to me that I still have not signed up for any sort of financial investment/savings plan, which I had intended to do immediately upon being hired.So, today, I bit the bullet and sat down in front of the computer, signed in, and signed up. I feel very adult suddenly. Here I am, 43 years old, and I've never invested in a single stock, bought a single bond, and haven't had a savings account in more years than I care to admit. I've pretty much always lived off the cuff, and depended on family members to see me through the rough times when I needed more than my credit card could hold.
And now I have made a step towards preparing for the future. Sure, my paychecks will be somewhat smaller, but better that than to depend on myself to try and set aside money on my own... there are always too many uses for it at home! Besides, the money is taken out pre-tax, so I may even make a lower tax bracket as a result. Good all around!
Now I am going to lower my head and charge (no pun intended) full-tilt at our credit card bill. With Bear's new job, we will be able to make more of a dent in it every month, until it is gone. That alone will free up hundreds of dollars a month to spend on things like, say, finally refurbishing The Ugliest Bathroom In The World, perhaps?
I feel like I am taking control of my life now, being a wee bit responsible for a change, and it is a very good feeling.
3 comments:
Very grown up indeed! I'm the same age as you and still living off the cuff. Freelancing tends to keep you in that skin of your teeth mode. But we have a good feeling that this year we might even get grown up financially too and start being able to save. Fingers crossed!
At least you are getting into it when the market is low. I tell myself the stocks are all on sale.
I'm proud of you sweetie. I think that is a wise choice. ;)
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