I recently lost a very important person from my life (don’t worry, not death; just difference in values leading to different life paths). That suddenly leaves me with a lot of extra time feeling lonely. The first few weeks, I did not go out as much because it costs money. But I am getting tired of staying home alone all the time. So this week, I decided to give socializing (and spending money if needed) a try.
Firstly, I tried to plan and attend events that do not cost much money. For example, I watched some TV with girlfriends on one night. But my other cheap ideas like taking a walk in the park did not fly with my friends. So the rest of the socializing ended up being pretty heavy on the wallet. For example, happy hour on Tuesday was $10, dinner out with a friend on Thursday was $26, and bowling on Friday was $15. That’s $50 in less than a week. If I continue this, I will find myself unable to meet the aggressive saving goals I have.
Any advice for someone whose friends make good money but are not willing to be frugal, other than making new friends? I don’t think I can give up more relationships yet (since I just lost one so recently). So, what should I do? Spend the money or be lonely?
I have gone through a similar phase, and for me being busy was more important than anything else. I liked being with friends, but that was just one part of it. At that time I started freelancing, drove around a lot, and offerred my assistance to others.
For example, helping others in moving, picking up someone from the airport, helping to write a resume etc. Basically, doing this helped me keep really busy and at the end of it all helped me socialize and have that warm feeling in my belly that comes with helping someone.
All the best and take care.
Thanks for the support. I will try out the suggestions you mention.