This is What Frugal Looks Like is a series that highlights different ways that people can be frugal in their lives- after all, frugality doesn’t have to be drastic or just about clipping coupons. Frugality can be fun and easy. Each respondent answers the same four questions. Today’s interview is with Jessica from Homeowner by 30.
What does frugality mean to you?
To me frugality means taking a little extra thought and effort in how I live and spend so that I have money for the things I need and more money for the things I really want to spend money on.
What is something that you do that is ‘typically’ frugally?
I try to cook my meals in bulk on the weekend (which is probably normal servings for a family, but I’m single, so a whole casserole is a lot). Then, I freeze them in reusable tupperware and eat them for lunches and dinners throughout the week. Knowing that I have meals to reheat makes it easier to resist the temptation to grab something to eat on the way home when I don’t feel like cooking.
What is something frugal that you do that is unusual?
I recycle cans, glass, and plastic bottles for cash. I don’t buy a ton of these types of materials, but I collect them in my classroom and my house (thanks roommate!). I only earn five to seven dollars per month this way, but I am definitely a proponent of every little bit making a difference. I also request free samples that I find on www.thefreebieblogger.com, including feminine products, two dryer sheets, a sample of dish wash, etc. Again, I think every little bit makes a difference, and the pennies I save on these items can help me reach my financial goals.
What are some of your longterm goals that being frugal will help you to accomplish?
Frugality will help me pay off my debts and eventually (hopefully) buy a home on a teacher’s salary. I also see frugality as a goal in itself. I think there is something to be said for living simply and not always having the newest gadget or every little thing I want. Frugality has helped me to be content with what I already have in my life, which is an accomplishment in itself.
Bio:
Jessica is a middle school teacher living in Long Beach California. Her interests include good podcasts, cooking, happy hour, riding her bike by the beach, and reading. She also likes to talk about Personal Finance, but rather than make people uncomfortable by trying to bring it up in person, she started a blog, Homeowner by 30.
Subscribe by 
Get updates by
Follow us on 
Friend us on 
{ 4 comments }
Jessica, on your goal of owning a home by 30.
My story. I lived in Long Beach for almost 25 years. (I now live in Brea.) I always thought I was too poor to buy, thus paying over $1000/month in rent.
My first property was what may be considered a dump in a dumpy area for a little over $20,000. My surroundings where I lived may not have been the best, but as far as socking away money, it did not take long to move to a better property.
Real estate may not be an investment vehicle it was just a few years ago, but even today it’s the way to go. Go to realtor.com and type in some ridiculous low amount and see what pops up.
I had a very middle class upbringing and for me to move into that first place was a big risk. But today, I’m now a millionaire, because of that first move.
Hey, that’s me! Thanks for the post/publicity. 🙂 And Mike, thanks for the encouragement!
Thank you for being part of the series! Enjoy your summer!
Thanks for another great series post. I really enjoy reading others success stories.