November brings longer nights, shorter days and a time to reflect on all that we are grateful for. It’s also the perfect time to shift our mindset about money and re-evaluate our financial situation. That’s why GreenPath Financial Wellness is bringing back its No Spend November challenge!
 
Here are four challenges to try during this No Spend November:

Challenge 1:

Decide to dine at home this month, versus spending your hard-earned dollars on takeout. According to Forbes, “at over $20 per serving on average, a restaurant delivered meal is five times as expensive as cooking at home from scratch.” Eating a more satisfying meal at home will have your stomach and wallet thanking you. You could also try packing car snacks that will fill you up and prevent you from going through a drive through or make the decision to pack your lunch for the week instead of ordering takeout.

Challenge 2:

Start planning early for the holidays. Try creating a spending plan so that you know how much you can afford for the holiday season. Think about how you can break that number down for each person you’re planning to buy for. It may be helpful to set money aside in a savings account or put $10-$20 per paycheck in an envelope dedicated to holiday purchases.

Challenge 3:

If you’re someone who usually makes holiday purchases with credit cards and winds up taking months to pay your cards off, challenge yourself to rely on cash for your holiday spend. If your credit cards are out of sight they will be out of mind. Try hiding credit cards in an untouchable space like the freezer, in a locked safe, in the attic – somewhere that deters you from easily using your card.

Challenge 4:

November is a fantastic time to declutter and sell those items you may no longer use. Check out Facebook Marketplace, Nextdoor, Poshmark, Offer Up, or a local consignment store. That way, you can get some holiday cash and make someone else’s holiday merrier!

Need help creating a spending plan for No Spend November?

As a Member of Frontwave Credit Union, you have access to free financial counseling from the experts at GreenPath Financial Wellness. They can assist you in assessing your financial situation and making a plan to pay off debt, improve credit and lead a financially healthy life. Visit greenpath.com/Frontwave or call 877.337.3399 to learn more and to speak with a financial expert.