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Quality v Quantity

I spent my 20's and most of my 30's living life as a spender. With little concept of money management, I would put together a budget only to blow it as soon as I was paid. Whilst I am not excusing my decisions, I recognise that I was an emotional spender.  Buying something (that I most likely could not afford) made me feel better for that very short time. My mind was stronger than my willpower and I was able to justify the need, when in fact it was most certainly a 'want'. 

As I hit my 40's, I suddenly started thinking about my future and that I had not real plan.  One thing I have always been clear of, is that I do not want to be living frugally in my retirement relying on the pension. In the last five years I have I worked slowly to clear my debt. It was a relief and a proud moment to see my credit rating and report are both at all time high. Realising that I was not alone I have also sought out seminars, groups and other resources designed to educate women about personal finance. I am continually learning and adapting as I go.

Along the way I have downsized significantly. I moved into a much smaller apartment, culling a great deal of clutter.  Living with less clothes and possessions means choosing quality over quantity and needing to be mindful i.e. "Is this a want or need?" due to space limitations.  Living in a smaller space has helped ease impulse buying. To buy new clothes for example, I need to look in my wardrobe and decide which item I am replacing, as there is no room for anything extra. 

I have been very fortunate to travel internationally annually over the last few years, to eat at nice restaurants and enjoy boozy nights out with friends. Lockdown has been positive in that the holidays, bars and restaurants I indulged in all too frequently have stopped. 

A simpler life has sparked my joy for cooking again and I have mastered the Negroni (my fav cocktail). I take joy in being able to cook out of my fridge/pantry and using leftovers to create a tasty meal. Nights out drinking cocktails, have been swapped for nights in making my own drinks and connecting via video chat. It has even been possible to enjoy a 'fine dining' experience in the comfort of my own home, cooking with quality ingredients to replicate cuisine from around the globe. 

Once we open up again, I will not be rushing back to my old lifestyle. Yes, I will still want to try out the latest restaurant and meet my girlfriends for some much needed and well overdue cocktails. But like everything else, I will choose more wisely and value quality over the quantity. 
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