We are still in that time of the new year when we make promises to ourselves.
I love the opportunity for a fresh start. I think everyone does. And this year, I have a new challenge for you.
In previous years, I’ve encouraged people to do a 21-day financial fast during which they couldn’t spend money on anything that wasn’t a necessity. For 2017, why not start off the year by getting rid of things you don’t need in your home and financial life?
For three weeks, I want to help you tackle decluttering your home while also clearing away debt. This is the #NoDebtNoMess Color of Money Challenge.
The task of decluttering and organizing your home is much like getting out of debt. A sense of orderliness will help you stay focused and not let things get out of hand. Plus, you might find some hidden treasures, like a birthday card with money. Seriously, while decluttering recently I found a birthday card from my 40th birthday with $40. (Ahem, I haven’t been 40 for a while.)
For the next three weeks, I’ll be joining you on this journey. Here’s what we’ll be doing.
The first week, you’ll spend time evaluating your space and financial situation.
Your net worth statement is a way to assess where you are financially. How can you know where you want to go if you don’t know where you stand?
I’ll be doing a live online chat at noon Thursday at washingtonpost.com/discussions. Also check out my Facebook page (facebook.com/MichelleSingletary) throughout the challenge for videos of my own decluttering battles and for encouraging messages. You can also follow me on Twitter (SingletaryM) to ask questions as we go along.
WEEK 2: REDUCE REDUNDANCY
Time to get rid of whatever is superfluous.
You’ll shed the financial documents you no longer need. I’ll walk you through which documents you should keep, and for how long.
This is when things get tough.
The end is not here.
The Color of Money challenge doesn’t stop after the 21 days. The aim is to kick start what I hope will be a lifetime mission of #NoDebtNoMess.
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