For example, if you are starting a new life because you need some space from negative family members, then you might include limiting contact with these persons as part of your plans. Or, if you are starting a new life because you want a challenge and some excitement, then you might consider placing yourself in an unusual circumstance, such as living in a foreign country.
Find locations with affordable living options by selecting cities and then searching online for rent and food expense estimates. For example, in the Cook Islands you can find an apartment to rent for $130 a month. [2] X Research source
For example, if you are trying to rebuild your finances and you have a relative who has a tendency to be a bad financial influence, then you will need to determine if you should continue to interact with them moving forward.
For example, you might write, “I would like to have $500 saved by the end of the year. ” This will help you to be more financially stable, so it will likely fit with your lifestyle choices, too, Make sure to think both big and small when setting your goals. Don’t be afraid to push for a goal that seems a long-shot. [5] X Research source
For example, if you plan to save money, then you’ll probably need to start by monitoring your spending or perhaps opening a savings account.
For example, try to seek out the natural beauty of an area. Look for how the birds fly in the sky or how the sunlight comes through the trees. If you are stuck in an office all of the time, you can even print out these images and place them around you. [9] X Research source
It is helpful to see your life as a book. This is just one chapter of many and does not necessarily tell you what the end will be. You are still writing it out. You will also need to be watchful when you fail, so that you don’t let these moments set you too far off course. For example, if you make a poor spending choice with your limited funds, see if you can correct it as quickly as possible. [11] X Research source
This will also allow you to see which debts need to be paid off first and which ones can come later. For example, it is always a good idea to pay off high interest credit card charges as soon as possible. One entry on your list might look like, “American Express Card, $1,800 balance, 18% percent interest rate, $25 minimum payment per month. ”
There are also some handy spending “tricks” that you can learn, such as setting aside the change from your checking transactions using an app, such as Qapital. [14] X Research source
For example, Panama is one location where you can live comfortably for around $300 a month. [16] X Research source
You might also consider putting your skills to work by creating a business. [18] X Research source
For example, if you are saving money by cycling to work and your bicycle breaks down, what will you do? You might want to investigate public transportation as a back-up option.
You can also find a forum for financial advice online and ask the members for tips on savings and tracking spending.
For example, there are many government grants available to small business owners. Some of these grants can help you to start over with a new business even if you lack the initial funding. Check with the Small Business Association (SBA) for more details.
Be aware that your story and choices may also help others to make positive changes in their own life. For example, you might have a friend who is struggling with credit card debt and could use any information that you learn about paying it down. When talking to your friends and family members you might say, “I have very little money to work with, but I’m planning to get a job in an industry that guarantees regular pay and insurance as well. ”[22] X Research source
You may also find that you are not the only person living in someone else’s home, especially in big cities. It is quite common for people to open their home’s to others searching for paid work in crowded, competitive areas.
For example, if you are a waiter looking for work it never hurts to talk with the wait staff when you eat out at restaurants. They may be able to give you some tips regarding looking for a job in that area.