Every once in a while, life deals you a hard blow. I think I'm currently receiving mine.
Don't worry: this isn't a 'woe is me' type of a post. I've just been doing a lot of thinking lately, about what to do when life doesn't do what you expected it to. And I've come to the conclusion that we all get things we're not prepared for thrown our way, but it's the way we react to these that carves out the beginnings of the rest of our path.
I graduated last year, from a degree I loved every minute of. I never expected to get a job in the industry right away, but I really hoped I wouldn't be where I am right now nearly a year on. Which is, in a nutshell, not making any money (ok, that's a lie - not making much money).
I'm lucky enough to have been given two great opportunities, both of which I'm sure will advance my career, but both of which are unpaid. That's fine - these things happen in the industry, I love the jobs I'm doing, and my chosen career path is competitive. Anything I can do to show my commitment is a bonus, even if it does mean working non-stop. But my fall back job, my comfortable been-there-since-I-was-sixteen job, is currently cutting back hours. Which means much less money for me. Which brings me to the point of this post.
I am currently trying to save. For what, I'm not sure. Perhaps to go travelling, perhaps to move to London if my big break comes and I manage to get my dream job. All I know is, I need something to fall back on as I'm getting older. Anything could happen - I'm applying for jobs anywhere and everywhere, and would happily move for a great role.
I've been earning my own wages for five years now, and I've been wearing my wages for five years too. Since starting my role aged sixteen, almost all of my wages have gone on new clothes. I know that I'm probably addicted to shopping, but aren't all bloggers?! So for the first time, ever, I'm making a vow - to not buy new clothes.
For all of about five minutes, I was so determined. But honestly, I don't think I could go completely cold turkey. I will, however, be cutting back on the percentage of my wage that goes onto new clothes dramatically. If I buy something, it will be something that I truly love and can't stop thinking about. The funny thing is, I have a wardrobe full of clothes that are so appropriate for this season anyway (pastels are so me) so it shouldn't be that hard, right?
I'm so kidding myself. This going to be hell - so I need some support. Have any of you guys cut back on your shopping habits before? I would appreciate any advice, or support, you could give! I'm determined to save, and honestly? My career is about the only thing that could make me give up shopping.
