Corporate Downsizing...Are you feeling it?

Last night I met up with a group of my girl friends for our monthly Bunko party. It was very interesting to hear each of them talk about the changes within their companies. Our professions range from Corporate Exec, Lawyers, HR Stock Manager and Coordinator, Legal Assistant, Stay Home Mom, Grocery Store Greeter and the list goes on. Out of 9 Women, every single one of us is experiencing some type of financial change in our family incomes. Whether it is a 10% (up to a 25%) pay cut, mandatory time off without pay, no more company matching of the 401k plan or reduced hours OR maybe even a combination of these things, everyone is feeling it. It's unbelievable... not to mention all of our home values and 401k's are in in the gutter.

After being downsized back in October, I have had a lot of time to evaluate my life and how I am living it. I really didn't like what I saw. Yes, I was that successful corporate exec that had the nice suits and a wad of money in my purse, and yes, we could have anything we wanted... entertainment, gourmet meals, weekends at the spa/resorts, hops to CA for a little sun and sand. But was I happy?? Yes and No - I was happy to have such a great family, two healthy girls and an extremely loving, sweet husband. But I didn't have ME! My stress level was off the charts. I can't even begin to explain how different and GREAT I feel today. It's like the real me has come out to play and she ain't leaving.

How did I get to this place? First thing we did was understand - where are we financially.

How do you understand where you are financially? It really isn't too difficult. A good way to get started is to analyze your last year's income and expenses and create a budget. I was shocked to see that with a few tweaks here and there, things look pretty good. I admit we won't be taking as many spur of the moment trips to the coast or eating out 15 times a month, but that's okay by us. We will also have to be more conscious of getting the best deal/price instead of just pulling out the wallet on impulse. The deals are there if you look.

So as I continue to move through this new way of life I will keep you posted... share anything that may be helpful. It's my responsibility to give back as much as, if not more than I receive.

Have a great day and SMILE!

Here is a sample of what we used...

If you don't like this one, Click here to go directly to Microsoft Budget Templates