Being frugal over the long term
Written 1st January 2025
Happy New Year
It's my last day in Portugal today and I've watched the sunrise over the sea from the balcony every morning.
I'm not a very patient person as anyone who knows me would tell you. From the first signs of light to seeing the full sun above the horizon takes about an hour here this time of year. As our planet turns towards it, the sky colours and shadows are constantly changing and evolving. I think the best shades of orange and red are just before the sun first appears. It's a spectacular natural performance and worth sitting out in the cold to watch it patiently waiting to see the big ball of heat and light.
Much like our finances, which take time and patience to come to fruition. To grow into something amazing and worth waiting for. If you take small steps on a regular basis, watch over them in the changing circumstances of your life, nurture and tend to them, watch them grow in anticipation and eventually you will have your pot of gold.
It's taken me 37 years of working and saving to be in my current financial position. Even on holiday I'm still careful with my spending and set myself a budget. I've had a wonderful time in the sunshine, exploring the coastline by foot, trying out the local cuisine, playing cards on the balcony, talking, drinking, laughing and just enjoying the company of my partner. Simple perhaps in this day and age, but relaxing and mentally freeing.
