If you’ve been a frequent reader of Stacy’s Savings over the last few years, you know there’s no shortage of projects to do around the House Formerly Known as The Oak Abode. In fact, I have amassed quite the list of No Spend Month Projects, especially in the last couple of years.
What Is a No Spend Month Challenge?
Many blogs do No Spend Month Challenges where the blogger vows not to spend money on anything all month. I admire those, but I can’t do that. Maybe in the future, but not right now. Moderation is key, right? So instead of not spending on anything, I’m going to do a Home Improvement No Spend Month this January, and maybe also February.
Why Home Improvement?
What is a Home Improvement No Spend Month you ask? Well, I’m going to do projects on my list that I do not need to buy supplies for. I have lots of projects where I have everything I need to complete it, I just haven’t had time. So for the next couple of months, I’m making time.
The reason why I’m choosing to do these projects now is 1) my list is getting long 2) We’re trying to save money for a very large upcoming remodel and 3) The unfinished projects are taking up space in my house and my head. I need them done.
I am throwing one other rule in here: no spending on house stuff. That means no decor from the Target Dollar Spot. No trips to HomeGoods. None of that. This should be easier since I really haven’t been to HomeGoods in several months. Target will be trickier.
What kind of projects are on my list?
Here’s a sample:
- Waterlox the Bar Countertop
- Wood Putty & Repaint the Wine Rack
- Touch Up Wall Paint Around the House
- Finish Baby Books (yes, one of these kids is 6.5)
- Fix Drywall Seam Cracks on Ceilings
- Finish Painting the Garage Ceiling
- Add a Can Light to the Guest Room Closet
- Add Wallpaper to Closet Drawer Bottoms
- Build Custom Shelves in Master Closet
That’s just a sample. It will be really nice to get these done and off my list. It will also be really nice to see how much money I can save. I’m trying to get buffered on my YNAB budget, and I think this will help tremendously.
I will also be trying to not spend money in other categories, I’m just not going to deprive myself. I sort of do that anyway for things like groceries & household stuff, so that’s not anything out of the ordinary. The spending that does happen is definitely on needs and not wants, and I have a very strict definition of what is a need. Most things are wants.
If you’re looking to save money outside of a No Spend Month, check out my post with 15 easy ways to save money!
Do you ever complete no-spend months? Have you been successful or not? How much money have you saved? Was the feeling of saving money or getting things off your list more satisfying? Tell me in the comments!
I’ll let you know how it went in March! Good luck you you if you are starting a No Spend Month!
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