How to stop being broke - A Frugal Guide to break the cycle of being broke for 2022.

I give you five top tips on how to stop being broke in 2022
Help for making the most of the money you have.
My KZbin links for this week:
How to Pay off Debt Quickly
• How to pay off debt qu...
Shamed for Being Frugal?
• Shamed for being fruga...
Dave Ramsey
/ daveramseyshow
Frugal Queen in France
Like the menu board & Budget Book? We have now started Amazon Affiliate Links its available here:
Kitchen Slate Board: amzn.to/2S2tWjW
Budget Book: amzn.to/3qISz2i
We are a British couple living in Brittany on a budget.
Frugal recipes, days out, home renovations and day to day making do in France.
We’ll give you hints, tips, advice and an insight into our life in France.
Website www.frugalqueeninfrance.com/
FaceBook / frugalqueeni. .
Instagram / frugalqueen. .
Twitter / batt_jane
Equipment used
Camera : iPhone SE (2016)
Mic : iRig MicCast2
Editing : iMovie on an M1 Mac mini
Music:
Audionautix is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 license. creativecommons.org/licenses/...
Artist: audionautix.com/
Some Sound from Zapsplat.com
KZbin Audio Library
Apple iMovie*

[@chorky2]

Hi Jane, since my husband died 4 years ago I have been very careful not to get myself into any debt even though I’m on a very low income I don’t waste anything and I am careful with my bills as I know there is only myself to sort things out. I don’t feel deprived as I see it more as a challenge that I am determined to win. Heather

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You are winning Heather

[@patmartin9727]

Well done Heather,I was widowed suddenly 3years ago.Luckily I had always been the one to deal with th household fi. I too cut right back to ensure I didn’t get into debt. Slowly I got myself sorted on a single income and realised if I was going to retire and be comfortable I needed to downsize. This took a long time because Covid got in the way but a year ago I moved into my new home. Over the last year I have adjusted to my new financal situation and if I continue to live frugally (which I have done for years) am with the help of this channel I have a fully funded emergency and sinking funds account and have even managed to build in a small fun money allowance every month to allow me to have a coffee or lunch with my friends.I too see my fungal living as a challenge. I try to have a no spend week every month and also 3 no spend months a year this allows me to keep my saving topped up and lows me to run a small car which gives me my independence. Enjoy your future life reaping the benefits of being debt free.

[@krisf-h9835]

We were married young at 20; one going full-time to University and one working as office staff. We were broke during those 6 years but paid our bills and no credit cards. Lots of dinners of grilled cheese, egg sandwiches and spaghetti. However now, over 45 years later, we have $1million in savings, 3 cars (fully paid for), and will pay off our large home (over $600,000) in 2 more years before we retire. We started saving small once out of University - automatically 3%, then 5%, then 10% and more. Some years we put all of a raise into savings. All of that while raising 2 smart girls. All to say: you may be broke now but you can become wealthy with hard work, savings, and spending wisely.

[@Hide_and_silk]

Ditto...now retired (retired in our 50s) with three very successful kids. It becomes a way of life. Having said that it's easy to go too far....a close family member worth multiple millions and as mean as stink.

[@stephaniekleppin7702]

These mid-week money chats continue to be my favorite part of your channel. Such good advice no matter where you are in your frugal journey. On a personal note, because of having emergency funds and not being “broke” as you promote, this past month when our power went out for almost a week, we were able to buy a generator (with cash) and save our stocked food in the freezer and keep from having to go to a shelter to keep warm. Such peace of mind not being broke. Thanks!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Great news and congratulations

[@lesreid2704]

@ Stephanie Kleppin, you've hit the nail on the head with "peace of mind"! My power was also out for a week last month during Storm Arwen . I'm lucky as I have a wood burner and I got a generator last month as back up too. I'm aiming in 2022 to save a specific amount each day, yes each day as I find the discipline of transferring £20 per day to a savings account helps me in saving. My 2022 Emergency Peace Of Mind fund is underway.

[@stephaniekleppin7702]

@@lesreid2704 Good for you, Les! You sleep so much better when you have peace of mind. Once you have your emergency fund fully capped off, you can focus on other budget areas and get them checked off one at a time. Just like physically working out and getting fit -once you get used to sticking to a budget plan, you become financially fit too. Nothing like it. That’s why I enjoy watching Michael and Jane’s videos which help keep me on track!

[@lindajacquot5391]

Good, honest talk today. The support in this group makes it easier to say "no" to impulse buying. Thanks, Jane, for another great episode.

[@laetitialogan2017]

Definitely...

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Linda

[@catinacheatwood3084]

This is real talk 👏💯. When I made a budget it changed my world. We are down to two debts and we now have 3 months of emergency funds and some sinking funds. Leap even when you're scared!!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Great to hear that and go and smash those debts

[@catinacheatwood3084]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance planned to have them paid in about 5 years or less Student loans and mortgage

[@arlettepozzoli1820]

Hi☺️my esperience is When i Was 19 i lived in an old car 😅 i saved up 2000€ euro in 2month to pay a serious professional course to take a better job , with a better income and finally have the poket power for a real house rent!😎very proud 😋

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Congratulations

[@lynns.1855]

I love your videos. My frugal life gives me peace. I had to learn how to be frugal because I couldn’t juggle all my bills on my small salary. I found a better job and became debt free after a lot of lean years. I am now retired on a small pension. I couldn’t be happier. Most of the frugal shamers don’t have a nickel to their name. So many people live on credit. They don’t understand how lovely of a life they could have if they would learn to live frugally. P. S. I think your grey hair is attractive.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks, I like my hair

[@mariemalek4629]

Thank you for your great advice and your time sharing your own frugal life. I am retired now and earn about a third of my working income. I am still able to spoil my 4 grandchildren by looking for sales, buying next year’s gifts after the holidays for example. I hardly buy clothes for myself, but if I do, I look in charity shops, or online second hand stores. I wear basic classic ageless pieces.I used to own dozens of pairs of shoes, and even after giving most of them away, I still have enough for many years to come.I drive the car that I bought when working. I shop at farmer’s markets for my fruits and vegetables, and I never eat out. I gave up coloring my hair by embracing the grey, but I get a trim every 2-3 months. I do my finger and toenails myself. Garage sales are great places (vide greniers in French) to find plant cuttings, household items, children’s books and toys. I don’t miss the income, I am just more resourceful and wiser when it comes to spending. You are an inspiration to all of us. Yes, cutting down our spending is difficult at first but quickly becomes easier and exhilarating.

[@dawnmorandin541]

This Christmas my family did the no gifts over $10 rule, it was great not to worry about what to get everyone, I gave my daughter a gift card for our local butcher so she can eat her gift lol. It was for more than the rule but we have the budget, she doesn't.

[@rachelseibert7882]

Such good advice, being debt free even in retirement is wonderful!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Debt free at any time should hopefully be the aim for everyone

[@amandaroberts2494]

Thank you, Jane. I so needed this talk as haven't been keeping such a tight grip on spending as usual. Time to get back on board and to get husband and kids on board rather than just trying to juggle things by myself and suffer a load of anxiety as well.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good luck Amanda, get on a written budget and watch our video on how we paid our debts as it might help you

[@sharonkline6515]

Like you I have a budget and am careful with my money because many years ago I married at 18. I enjoy watching your videos anyway because they help so many people. When young we were pour.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing!!

[@hilarygibson3150]

I've always taken a perverse pleasure in confusing people when they judge you by what you own. I used to run a business. I had a (very) second hand van while the staff had new Mercs and VW Sciroccos.😉

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Yep and all probably bought with debts

[@patmartin9727]

You comment made me laugh Hilary, I too have been in that position where someone has commented on how much better off than me they were when I knew that wasn’t true. I just thought if only you knew. To me a car is a car they are all a money pit and the more it cost when new the quicker it looses money.

[@sheilaraine3654]

Great video Jane. We were broke for many years when our 3 children were at home. We didn’t have any savings. Not much debt but lived pay day to pay day. Things improved now have a small savings pot and currently overpaying on our mortgage (our only debt). I care for my 93 year old mother full time so can’t work as such and husband is now retired but feel rich compared to how we used to be. Love watching your videos.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Shelia for sharing your journey

[@dianachick7887]

Superb video . Social pressures are huge. I have lost friends because I can’t afford the meal, the trip etc. I have no debt , I have savings which inflation is eroding but I will not put myself into debt for others approval. Very difficult but it is the only way for me to balance the books. Jane your honest, sound advice is excellent and I binge watch your videos to keep me on track . I applaud you 👍👏👏👏👏💕

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Diana, we’ve received criticism and still do. We all have to be frugal now

[@marlyngeeding1877]

Enjoyed this mid week money chat. It is very hard not to follow social pressures. A lot of people don't understand why one would be be frugal, not be broke. They always say " I can afford it, why can't you." Be it a trip or outing that you don't go on, not eating out all the time. Driving a used car, instead of financing a new car. I love your channel. 😍

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

But are they saving for their retirement? Are they building long term savings? Are they debt free?

[@Mylifewithptsd]

Thank you for everything you do. I started being aware of my spending and money in September. I start the month strong, but one week in, I get stressed over thinking not to spend. It stresses me to the point that I make a stupid buy, like soda and just random stuff on sale (grocery) and as soon as I do one mindless purchase, I end up blowing my budget, my plan, go in zero before the week 3. Right now I have been good at staying on budget for January, but I can sense I am getting stressed over thinking about how to stay on budget. It stresses me to think that I need to stay on budget and away from groceries, and constantly checking if I use to much water or to much electricity. I pray it will become easier soon, and that I can focus on other things and not just to be frugal. Love from Denmark

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Hello, just breathe, you’re going to be ok, try to buy your groceries for the week and plan your meals, drop the soda, it’s not great for our health. Stay strong.

[@2024_my_frugal_year]

Loved today's chat, big fan of tough love when needed. I had a poor (not broke) upbringing & when I turned 18 I went a bit mad, buying things I never had when younger. I got Credit cards, loans, student debt etc. I got out if debt but it took me years. Even after when I had a good job I still spent far too much. Having kids was my lightbulb moment & I've tried hard to change & gradually turned in to a saver. Also Jane I love your hair & one way I'm going to save even more money in 2022 is to stop having highlights & fully embrace my grey at 44.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Yep, been on that journey and out the other side.

[@rickiwinter1587]

Watching your videos helps keep me on track Jane In the past my spending has been somewhat chaotic, now I live better and am on a very tiny budget . Impulse buying has been my down fall . Even on a small amount of money I find it possible to save and have also got two sinking funds on the go

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I think everyone can save even if it’s just one of the savings challenges from our last video

[@suebee1540]

To quote a favourite hymn (I am not religious), I once was lost but now I'm found, was blind but now I see. This sums up my financial history and future.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good luck with your journey

[@michaleneyoon6195]

We can change what might sound like a negative into a positive with our phrasing “I’m not doing _____ because I am ________ (I.e., paying down a debt/saving for a house/etc.).” People who care about us support healthy choices.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Absolutely, when we opened up to people, many joined us on our journey

[@moreynolds9870]

Hi Jane, how are you? There seems to be a stigma about saying “no, sorry I can’t afford to do that” and it’s that’s one reason people get into debt or become broke. I really love these videos, there’s always something each of us can take away and use in our own lives. Big thank you Jane. Xxx stay safe xx

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

There shouldn’t be that stigma, people should be honest.

[@moreynolds9870]

I totally agree with you Jane

[@alisonbutler6743]

You were really not that hard Jane, but the first step of any change is to face reality. I would also say that with any major change you have to take things one day at a time. If you can get through today without buying that fabric (or yarn for me) or buying that 'thing' you will have a tiny bit more resolve for tomorrow. Also, another tough thing to do is 'stop looking' whether it is the fabric/yarn shop or food shop - whatever your overspending vice is - just stop browsing.Say to yourself "do I need it or do I want it" (we all know what the answer is most of the time). It is so hard to do; this year I am actively trying to food shop less often, not that I overspend but I buy too many treats when I do go, and want to eat more healthily and keep food budget the same as previous years.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks, it’s no longer hard for me and when I set a no spend month, I stick to it. I only buy fabric from charity shops now and certainly not in no spend months.

[@mitomom4947]

I learned to budget and save. It’s possible, just not easy to start. I learned to identify more with people who are low spenders rather than going with the lifestyle creep that so often accompanies a promotion or new job. It’s possible, just not easy. Now i’ve been doing it so long it is second nature. Thank you for the support you provide to all of us, wherever we are on our frugal journey. I really appreciate you and Michael! 💜

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

We appreciate you watching

[@bethannet9981]

I binge-watched so many of your videos this week, I feel like I have had a vacation to France. 🙂 Love your channel! It really speaks to where I am in my life right now.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You’re welcome

[@mulatokudzava7797]

Hello, Jane, thank you for speaking about "frugal shaming" and believe it or not, you´re the first person who I hear saying this so useful term. Everybody knows these days that there are more important values in life than fancy things, looks or addresses, but unfortunately, it seems that in the everyday life few people do really feel and act that way. I´m glad you´re brave enough to live up to the real values and don´t surrender to the social pressure!👍💪👍

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Mulat, it’s a fickle world and people can be unkind but it’s always best to Do the right w

[@Sally-wm5jh]

I had a written budget for years, but had no will power to stick with it. We had some major money issues in the last few months, which drained a lot of our savings. This year we have a realistic written budget and we have a positive attitude going forward to make this budget work. Thank you Jane for having "a serious talk" with us. It's what we need to hear.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Yep, stick with it…..every day

[@ophelialee2714]

Whoo! Those social pressures. They start early. I grew up poor and got used to being the odd girl out. It helped to develop a thick skin for not caving in to those pressures when I was no longer poor. It is immensely encouraging to have like minded people like you that remind the rest of us that we are not crazy!

[@Meli_Mels]

Ditto

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

We are indeed not crazy

[@mskazz642]

Been watching your videos recently & they are so helpful. As a person in my 50’s who hasn’t made the best financial choices in the past. It’s so refreshing to find someone so down to earth & Thankyou Jane for all you share..🤗💐

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You’re welcome and thanks for watching

[@jbo5915]

I used to have a mortgage, but I was never in debt. Still debt free but officially poor now, what with the pandemic laws which prevent me from working unless I agree to have experimental drugs injected into my body. It's a tough situation, but there's always something that can be done about it. I've always been very frugal despite my well off parents, never needed a budget but I wanted to be in control and now I have it. I keep track daily of my expenses. Figuring out a way to earn online, selling stuff and on the way to decluttering my large house. Thank you for your time and skills that you so generously share. Your videos are a pleasure to watch and I'm beginning to look forward to your midweek money chat.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You’re welcome and thanks for watching

[@tinalemna7998]

We have credit card debt at the moment and my husband is always on Amazon looking at things to buy. We have agreed to not spend any additional money in January but already I have to keep reminding him. Great video Jane. 👍🏻

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

He needs to watch my videos and get off Amazon

[@tinalemna7998]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance I’m going to tell him that!

[@LoriMeg1]

I look forward to each and every one of your videos! I, too, am a Dave Ramsey fan. My husband and I are 51 years old and on baby steps 5 & 6 We have 3 daughters all in college, with full tuition scholarships, and we pay the rest (we pay dorm, meals for one; the other two received more scholarships so we pay for meals only for them). We wouldn’t be able to cash flow college for three if we didn’t follow the baby steps. We’re currently on schedule to have our mortgage paid off in early 2024. You’re videos are helping me save so much where I can. Groceries, electricity, water, etc. We are willing to do a no spend year because we KNOW that being totally financially independent is so worth it! You help to keep us motivated and I thank you so very much. Happy and healthy new year to both you and Michael.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Great job Lori, good luck with smashing that mortgage

[@maribelacosta450]

I honestly never thought of paying myself first. My savings/401k and funds/challenges should come first and then the bills. It is life changing and a whole new way of budgeting.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

It certainly works

[@cyclingonplants7444]

Wonderful advice Jane! Your money chats always get me thinking about how I can improve on things with my budget and life choices. I have been poor, broke and in debt more than once in my life. It takes years to crawl out of it sometimes and it's so very hard. Dave Ramsey has a great book and podcast to really get you going if you're stuck in a bad financial place.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I’m a huge Dave Ramsay fan

[@cynthiamarston4415]

I needed today's reminder. Thanks for sharing :)

[@sagewilliams8082]

Love this weeks chat!

[@misfit7610]

Thank you for the encouragement 😊

[@kristiarth2759]

Love, love, love the mid week money chats! Thank you for your gentle honesty and support. Happy New Year to you and yours!

[@karenmurtaghyoga9195]

Social pressure was huge. Wish I had learned earlier what I know now! Caring what other people think does not pay the bills.

[@lindagbukvic9441]

Awesome!!! I couldn't say it any better.

[@dlight4595]

Jane I am a new subscriber I just love your videos! Not just the recipes but your advice too. Just your positivity spurred me on today to do some sorting. Thanks and looking forward to seeing more....

[@cherylverber7672]

Another great video and so much to think about. I have learned to say no to events especially when I know I can't afford it. Most people are understanding and we will always try and come up with an alternative or ill save especially of its for a special occasion.

[@gailgriffin-ballew6247]

I love that quote Jane "choose your hard"!

[@elizabethcoates3024]

Great information 😊

[@ShoestringJane]

All very excellent advice! Great chat 👍

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@janeheath2798]

Just caught up with this video Jane. Great video, thank you and you’ve given me some ideas for going forward. 💖

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@yukofreeman4483]

Thank you Jane, I always look forward to your videos!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Yuko

[@sheilap3100]

Another inspirational video. Thankyou Jane x

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much

[@marie34K]

Very good video Jane .Very useful .😊

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much

[@garygnagey3569]

Enjoyed your video today!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Gary

[@rachelwalsh4378]

Loving this weeks money chat Jane & Mike! Your videos help us so much… Thank you 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁷󠁬󠁳󠁿

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Happy to help

[@juliamist4797]

Thank you, Jane and Mike, for yet another interesting video.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@patmartin9727]

Another wonderful and honest video Jane. I love all your videos but look forward to the mid week money chats the most. You honest down to earth way of speaking makes me pay attention the fact that you are honest about your past debts makes you seem more credible. Your down to earth advice is invaluable. I have always tried to be frugal and save a little but since finding your channel I have learnt so much. You and Mick should be proud of the way use the frugal tricks you have discovered to help others on there journey to becoming financially secure.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks from Jane and Mike

[@mrsh3972]

Love these sort of videos, they're a real boost when necessary frugality hits. Thank you!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You’re welcome Mrs H

[@azgardenlover370]

I love your money chats. I have few people in my life to encourage in this area, so I consider you a money coach. Thank you for the time you devote to doing this each week

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for the feedback

[@karenbowden552]

This is a great talk Jane, full of honesty, it's always better coming from someone who has been there themselves! I always go away inspired and ready to grab my budget and spending habits and give them a good shake up! We are doing ok, but working on doing better! Thanks for another great video :)

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Happy to help and thanks for watching

[@nataliecolbert5790]

What a very sweet video. Anyone who is in a bad situation will appreciate the way in which you approached the subject. You are a very good teacher and you are very kind

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Natalie

[@davidjenson7773]

Jane you are so real. Looking back I always was amazed the most advice came from my broke friends and understanding my goal or thinking. So now they tease me your life is so easy . Keep the information coming you help everyone is some small way! David

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You keep going too David

[@martapogribna6396]

Thank you very much for the lovely video. We are not broke, but we do have a mortgage, car payment, and low interest loan- all manageable. That being said, we are definitely not strangers to the money anxiety bouts. Your videos are full of useful tips AND fun to watch!

[@helenhartley6904]

Great video Jane. No spend January for us, and I'll remind my daughter to increase her savings!

[@lisab1254]

love your content!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much for watching

[@lisag9493]

Thanks Jayne for making this video ,, we all need reminding at times to reign things in and to watch the budget ,, I could hear your strict teacher voice coming out 😄,, brilliant,, best wishes, Lisa

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I was really trying not to be strict.

[@lynnoorman2144]

I like your definition of broke. A very good chat and inspirational in keeping us on the frugal path. Thank you.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You’re welcome and thanks for watching

[@Julie-si3hi]

Here for the first time :) I use a budget book, love being in control,but can always learn more ! Hi from England 🇬🇧 new subscriber x

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Hi Julie, you are most welcome.

[@lisagarrison25315]

Great advice !!

[@Dee-te9sj]

"I'm really a nice person!!" Yes, Jane, you absolutely are- I love your gentle / tough love and common sense which is why I've followed you for years! I'm hoping to improve my garden skills a little bit more this year, mainly for the peace of mind that gardening gives me and for the wonderful produce it yields. There is nothing more satisfying to me than getting my hands stuck into beautiful soil! Happy New Year!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I’m hoping, now that I’m retired, to get some gardening done this year.

[@notquiteachateaudiy]

Happy New year Jane and Mike xx

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

And you too

[@Cheer10x11]

Glad you addressed this topic, and doubly so as you can do so as someone who "was there." I think it's hard for those "new" to frugal to really wrap their arms around it all. But honest talk from those who've been there is incredibly helpful. And yes, fabric stores are hard. LOL

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much. My point about fabric stores is that I get tempted too, I don’t buy it but I certainly get tempted.

[@orangey_plum_pear_2668]

Thank you Jane for your straight talking , no - nonsense video. It will help me to aim to stay on track with our small budget and aim to save 10% of my earnings, which it quite a chunk at present, but will help review our budget again and see where we can further trim down . Hoping to aim to use this to pay down mortgage quicker.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching and commenting and good luck with the mortgage overpayment

[@talkintime]

Just started tracking and documenting in budget book and it is the "mirror" I needed to look at to see that indeed my spending habits/mentality has been the issue all along. Now I have Dave Ramsey and your voice in my head to remind me what I need to do to get serious and focus on the goals. Thanks a bunch!!!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You’re very welcome

[@sandystuffnthings4895]

Thumbs up done and subscribed. I used to read your blog religiously many years ago when you were still in the UK.❤️

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Hi Sandy, thanks and you’re welcome

[@candaces3959]

Love your mid-week money chats. You really give the best advice! I fell into the peer/ society pressure situation when I was younger and it took quite a while to get out of debt. I do have a lingering student loan debt that I am working on and that's it apart from my mortgage. I am moving out of being broke. It's a bit like a jigsaw puzzle - try and fit the parts together and eventually they fall into place. I am very optimistic that I will get on track this year. I have written a budget and set up some sinking funds and looking at my budget month to month to adjust as I get on track. I really feel a great sense of accomplishment! Always look forward to all of your videos but especially the money chats! Thank you!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You’re welcome and thanks for watching

[@heathertucker7056]

What excellent sound advice today Jane! I was guilty of the “ keeping up with the Jone’s “ many years ago but I soon learned to be my own person luckily before too much debt accrued. Putting a bit aside for emergencies is a key for us these days. Thank you.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I was exact the same. More house than money until we saw the light.

[@Aphrodite1985007]

That was indeed a hard topic, but you handled it so gracefully! Thank you so much! I am so very lucky to be in a great financial place now, but that took a loooong time. What I noticed is that when I started living more frugally and now that I still do, I've lost many "friends" and find it very hard to find new ones (being in a new city for work now it's even harder). I was wondering if you or anyone in this lovely community might have some tips or experience they'd like to share. Thank you so much. Be blessed!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Just be you and people will Find you. Volunteer too, it’s a great way to be around other decent people

[@ninajohnson6578]

Jane such good advice.

[@bonsteve123]

Thanks Jane! Great video! We are currently working on paying down our debt and we are making progress! Not only that but we are also putting money into savings to start making this a habit! I always love all your content! You and Mike are doing a fabulous job!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching Bonnie and for sharing your journey

[@bria2596]

I love this video. It is hard to change how we think and what we do, and those are the two crucial things that form our future. The information you offer can be life-changing in a very positive way if someone takes action on it. Thanks for an excellent presentation, and walking your talk. * I did all of these things, and you are right, they were not fun or easy at the beginning, I continue to do them and I don't even think about it anymore. The payoff is so BIG, it is worth the effort. Even so, I am still here and listening, because it is good to "reset and recommit."

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

It really is worth it.

[@goatlady501]

Not sure if this will help, but I do like your videos. I learned to do just about everything you are telling people to do years ago. When ever I talk about saving money people just don’t get it. So I will keep enjoying your videos, and just send you a “ great job”, hope it helps you.

[@loopylou5841]

Hi Jane and Mike. Another really useful vlog full of good old common sense. I am not in the position of being broke but have been in the past but with support from family and friends I moved forward albeit slowly to where I am today. There is no quick fix. Good luck to all.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@jackiepolley3300]

“Choose your hard.” Thank you, Jane and Michael.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Indeed, it’s a choice

[@patpryor]

Another great video.

[@gerriwalsh9846]

You give very sound advice :)

[@deborahbain9915]

Thankyou for being tough sometimes it's the only way

[@sheilabus5475]

Good for you choosing this lifestyle.

[@louiseparks3131]

I needed this today Jane. A week before January payday. I've realised I don't actually need to go food shopping today as we have plenty of food already X

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Keep going

[@mkhuntstreasure3192]

Always enjoy your videos. Here’s an idea for a video, I would love to know how you tie your scarfs, they always look great. Thanks for sharing.

[@jimmiepatrum]

I've noticed Jane's scarf tying, too. I also would like to see how she does it. Diane

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I’ll do it on Facebook

[@CharlesAvilaMeasInst]

Great video as always and thank you! Yes I have been in probably every one of those scenarios in my former spend-spend-spend life. I was broke. For the past five years or so, I’ve turned things around and have six months living expenses saved up, plus an emergency fund, and I’m contributing about 15% towards retirement. I’m making accelerated payments to pay off my home and should be done by the middle of this year. I would choose my current life over my previous broke self any minute of any day. Living a frugal life is fulfilling and fun 🤩

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching and sharing your story

[@thevegantitian]

Watching from USA. Thank you for this advice.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks so much

[@flochou63]

Thank you for all your advices. You are very encouraging. I stick to home made lunch box so it is at least 40 euros saving this week 👍

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That’s really good and a saving of 2000€ a year and 10,000€ over five years!

[@parler8698]

I was very broke for several years. I tried to budget and minimize expenses. At a certain point, I had to earn more money. By developing my career, I now earn much more than I ever have in my life. I have now found Lifestyle creep is an issue.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing

[@loriar1027]

Yep. Two minutes in and I can already tell that you're talking to me. 😔 I will say that these weekly chats help keep me in a more frugal mindset. I’ve already cut out a lot of my regular spending habits from listening to your advice. Retirement is around the corner-I can’t say early retirement bc I’m already 61!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Keep going Lori and look forward to retirement

[@adaly5115]

Hi Jane another brilliant mid week chat. My husband and myself have never bought into keeping up with "the Jones" we always had steady jobs but not great renumeration and to save for our house deposit (over 40 years ago) we had to be very frugal and only buy what we needed and a birthday present each. I learned then many frugal living skills and have kept that up and improved with every day. We are both early retirees. We are debt free for over 16 years at this stage and that's why we retired extremely young. Thank you for your inspirational talks. Happy New year to you both from Ireland 🇮🇪 😊.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Debt freedom means early retirement for many people

[@adaly5115]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance hi Jane it certainly does and it is great 👍 👌 😀.

[@karenpiete6970]

Used to be in debt but not now which is so freeing! Our home is paid for no credit card debt we owe no one but ourselves! I love being free to help people in need from St. Judes to charities that we choose to give to! Your advice was spot on and the way we did it@

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Well done Karen, it’s liberating indeed

[@marilynthomson9564]

Wonderful video! I am retired living on Social Security and these were some wonderful tips. I live pretty frugally but there were a few gems in there that I intend to incorporate. Fortunately , I enjoy a simple life. No need to shop, I love sewing and gardening and having friends over for meals, you always give some beautiful advice that everyone can learn from. When next Social Security check comes in I intend to count every penny that goes out. I’m sure I will find out that I might be spending more than I want on things that are not necessary.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good luck Marilyn, watch my budgeting video on Wednesday about sinking funds.

[@claudiaebert7842]

Of course you are a nice person! A very, very nice one, I'm sure of it. And your channel replaces any personal financial coach. Many thanks to you, and of course also to Mike for your wonderful, helpful and encouraging videos. Warm greetings Claudia from Germany ❤

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Claudia

[@legslikewhoa]

I’ve started with a budget. I wrote out all of my NECESSARY expenses, and my weekly income, then I track all of my spending (the drips). It’s really opened my eyes to how I end up with more month than money. I’m learning to get out of the habit of spending money every time I make money.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks so much for sharing, tracking those drips helps us keep them under control.

[@ReinaAGrace]

Thank you so much for this video it was so inspiring. I needed to hear this as I complete my no spend January challenge.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Keep going Gina

[@ReinaAGrace]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance Thank you 🙏

[@wendytravers4400]

Another great and informative video too many people don’t talk about money and with an honest approach. I’ve been lucky as I’ve never been broke as I’ve always saved some of my money. I live within my means and budget plus try to get the most I can from my money, I do my reasearch and shop around for the best deals. Thanks so much ……… Love Wendy ♥️💋

[@wendytravers4400]

Forgot to say I’ve also worked 2 jobs a 37 hour one and a 20 hour one together so 57 hours a week ♥️💋🤗

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Wendy and good for you for your hard work

[@kerstinkiel5314]

I think this is your best video to date Jane, I'm sure it will inspire many people. Personally I'd rather keep up with your great advice than keep up with the Jones's.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Kerstin, I’ve been there and I know it’s hard to change habits.

[@kathiparshall8094]

Thank you. We have paid off all of our personal debt except our mortgage and save at least 10% each month. It feels really good and freeing. We haven't used a credit card for any purchase in the last two years. We own a business and we are trying to pay off the debt on that too, but that is going slower with these challenging times. Thanks for the reminders and I like your Wed talks.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You’re welcome and thanks for sharing your journey