Our 2023 Low/No Spend. What I'm Not Buying and My Why

Our frugal plans for 2023 laid bare as we go through what we aren't buying and why.
Sinking Funds Explained
• Sinking Funds Explaine...
Frugal Queen in France
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We are a British couple living in Brittany on a budget.
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[@julieemig432]

I have been doing very low spend for about 10 years. Recently I needed to make a major life change that was unexpected. Fortunately I had lots of savings. I sold my large house that was debt free and have cash to buy a smaller one. Fortunately I’ve been so frugal and will still be able to retire on time.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That’s great

[@Babba08]

We have a no spend life, lol. Honestly, we just don't spend money unless we have to at this point. My husband has become disabled and I am his full time caregiver. We depend solely on his Social Security Retirement money at this point. It's kind of scary at times but we do what we have to in order to live decently. And we do okay. We have a decent place to live, we're well clothed, warm in the winter and cool in the summer and we have plenty of food. We don't have as much savings as we'd like, but considering our situation, it's amazing that we have any at all and we do have some. Thanks for your encouraging vlogs. They are helpful. I always love seeing a cute pupper!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@luba-healthywithluba6866]

I love the idea of no spend days throughout the week. ❤ Thank you, Jane!

[@valgalloway6914]

I'm lucky in that, at 76, I don't have a mortgage. Just now there's nothing I really need but I do have £45 in Amazon vouchers (Christmas gifts). I'm in no rush to spend it - no doubt something will turn up. Can I take this opportunity to wish you, and all your followers, a Happy & Healthy New Year. xxx

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Val and to you too.

[@jbalconi5922]

Happy New Year, Val.

[@susannarobinson1936]

Had a low spend year it was hard but worth it to see savings grow .am now mortgage free 🤗

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Congratulations

[@allisonspeer6837]

Did my first No Spend months in Jan and Feb of last year. Worked out great. I'm planning on doing that again for 2023 and maybe I can even add a month in the Summer/Fall. I also did a No Spend Year for clothing for myself (my only "fail" was I found 4 new T-shirts for 2.00 each end of season so I put them into storage for this Summer). I have pretty much done away with buying household items/decor. If I need a change I just redocorate by shopping my house and just moving pictures, items from other rooms. Give a fresh appearance while spending Zero dollars. Love your videos. Happy 2023!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@jaccithomas279]

I retired early in July 21, since then I have lived a very very low spend life. I am very happy living like this as I love my retirement so that is my why. I stick to our budget and will only buy something if it is a total necessity, I really enjoy it. Happy 2023 to us all!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You and I both

[@jeanwhite2705]

Good Morning Mike and Jane. My husband and I are retired and are still learning how to use our economic resources frugally. We just spent our first Christmas where we incurred no credit card debt whatsoever. I managed to save thru out 2022 a sum that covered our entire Christmas budget and also pay almost 1400$ on some maintenance costs on our heating system and the cost of having to say goodbye to our pet cat. It was a tough month but made So Much more doable without worrying about how much we were over spending. The extra costs were saved for. They weren’t a surprise. Our cat Penny had been senior and struggling health wise for some time. We were so very sad to let her go, but the cost was taken care of. Our Christmas budget was tightened up in Janruary 2022 and I did find it challenging to stay within that budget. Last night when I was recording all my receipts and totals, we were very proud of ourselves. I I have been working with a neighbour this whole year, having a monthly money chat in our home, just sharing and encouraging each other to step out of our habits and helping each other to be consistent in saving or debt repayment. It has been So helpful for both of us. As we prepared for Christmas ,we realized that consumerism is well entrenched in our generation at Christmas especially. We tie our self worth into the amount we spend on our gifts for those we love. It was a lesson we had never considered before. It bears repeating as we continue our own financial lives. We have watched several of your videos this past year and will continue thru out 2023. We want to thank you for your forth rightness by times, just telling it like it is, for your encouragement and for just sharing your journey. Thank you from Canada and sending best wishes for good health and happiness thru out the new year.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Hi Jean, that’s wonderful and thanks so much for taking the time to share

[@indylwth2327]

Number 1 goal for living frugally: Aggressively pay that mortage down as fast as I possibly can.💪🏻 I’ve done pretty well this year, but I want to do even better next year.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Well done with that

[@indylwth2327]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance Thank you! Took LOTS of self-discipline but it is SO rewarding seeing that bulk of debt starting to give an inch. Next year will be another tough financial year but I’m determined to take another chunk out of that bond!

[@barbaram5214]

You can do it IndyL! Paying extra on my mortgage was by far the thing that helped me retire early.

[@auntyharry]

That’s my #1 financial goal in 2023….be focused on mortgage repayment. It was my primary goal in 2022 and despite rising interest rates, I am aiming to continue my path to be mortgage free in 6 years. 🤞🏻

[@denarupp991]

I agree! Plus, I love when the bill comes and I see I'm really making a dent. It's soo encouraging! Good luck to you in 2023😊

[@FrenchyTaylor]

I have a no spend week every first week of the month. It is usually the week where the offer and the clearance items are the most expensive because most people wages came ind. So we eat our pantry and freezer during that week. We also allocate 5€ to pantry items every shopping week to make sure that our stock is op just in case. I am sick so I don’t have a lot of energy during the working week, so every weekend I make two easy dinners ready to go so we don’t order out or fall into the supermarket pit of convenience food. Last but not least, I always have bacon, eggs and bake beans in stock because nothing says easy peasy like breakfast for dinner 😎.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing

[@lindaash1932]

I have an occasional "don't buy groceries" until I have used everything in the fridge and freezer, this stops a lot of the wasting of food from freezer burn or rotten food in the back of the fridge. I'll do this a minimum twice a year, quite often more. I also have a savings plan where I put away $1 for the date eg. If it's the 1st of the month, I'll put away $1, if it's the 30th of the month, I'll put away $30, this money makes up my emergency fund. I have recently started a second job, all earnings from this job pays all debts so whichever billis due next gets the funds. I accumulated a few debts from the onset of COVID with job losses etc. but I'm back on track to a better, more secure position in life now.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That’s a great plan.

[@lindaash1932]

@Frugal Queen in France my newest addition to my budgeting is a money management purse which has several pouches to keep your money separated when you go out. It is so handy and tidy.

[@lisad6463]

So encouraging. Thank you for continuing your KZbin and FB posts.

[@marynienhouse6143]

We are on a low spend January. It’s a wonderful way to reset after the buzz of the Holidays. It’s my way of becoming more mindful. We are working on building our savings back up after a furnace purchase. Liking your ideas about sinking funds. Makes so much sense! Thank you both for your videos and transparency.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@Timetobefrugal]

We are going to do a no spend low spend year in 2023. My husband wants to retire in 2028 at 67 and we do not have near enough saved and we want to get ourselves in a better place. We used to be very frugal when we were raising our kids, but they grew up and moved out and our income went up. We got into some very bad spending habits. So this is our way of getting back into a frugal lifestyle permanently. I learned a lot from this video. I will sit down today and fine-tune my budget. I never knew about sinking funds or savings for specific items. I always thought you were just supposed to have one savings. But I’m gonna look at our budget in a different way and figure out a way to save for the individual things I know are coming up for this year and into the future. I’m looking forward to watching more of your videos as I have a lot to learn.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Hi and welcome. Our Sunday video is about our budget, savings and sinking funds. We hope it’s helpful.

[@patmartin9727]

When I found this channel sinking funds became a game changer for me. I have lived frugally for years and thought I was doing well. I had savings but then something broke down and I had to deplete the savings to replace it or the car insurance was due and I had to dip into the savings. So in reality I never knew how much saving we really had as a portion of it was needed to pay for irregular payments. A year later after finding the channel and setting up sinking funds I know know what my real savings are and also I don’t have to worry about irregular bills and breakdowns because the money is sat in the sinking funds account waiting to be used. Good luck on moving forward into your retirement years

[@asavannah7439]

I also recommend Minimal Mom for inspiration

[@jennifershaw4756]

We are trying out your "no spend week" at the end of each month, this year. We are giving it a go this week to practice. I love having all of the budget sorted and closed off early. We have also planned 4 "no spend" months. Last year we successfully completed two. Thanks for all of your wisdom and all the best you and Mike in 2023!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much for sharing

[@suematile9078]

I always have no spend days. I often save the last week of the month as a low to no spend on groceries week. It is fun to see what I can find to eat. This week one meal was the surprise shredded turkey in the freezer. In my pantry was a bottle of turkey gravy and canned green beans. Two cooked potatoes were mashed. All this made hot turkey sandwiches with one side. Oh, there was also a side of leftover cranberry sauce.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@shawna620]

I've never had a no-spend anything but I'm a low-spender on almost everything except groceries. I've worked out a budget these past few months based on what you share in your videos. Meal planning & food budget are what I'll primarily work on work this year. I like the idea of a no-spend week at the end of the month to get sorted for the next month. Thanks Jane!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Shawna

[@tinkerbell9399]

Me and hubby are just starting a no spend month. Have drawn out money for food and fuel, and that’s it! We are lucky enough to qualify for free loft insulation, and it’s being fitted this week. Been emptying the loft, and oh my, we have so much stuff! We are adamant it’s not going back, so will be donating on free sites, offering to family and friends, and giving to charity shops. Few bits will be sold, and will save the money for rainy day. You two have inspired us, and we thank you for sharing.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You got this!

[@bookmagicroe9553]

We save for our once a year house improvement. One year that might be painting (by us) a room. Another year if might be major, like paying to take down a huge tree that's too close to the house foundation. Another year it was getting the asphalt driveway topped. This year it will be small, like replacing an area rug that's seen it's last mile. We always save, and at the same time, keep the house in acceptable condition. This may come to an end because I've done a budget based on the rising cost of living, and the same basic things we needed to pay for in 2022 will cost $5,000 more in 2023. So there will definitely be no spend days (and days and days) in 2023. Thanks for your inspiration.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much for watching

[@lisag9493]

I’m mad with myself,, unnecessarily spent £50 + on a curry after a festive drink on Christmas Eve ,, we were walking past the curry house on our way home and the aroma got me,, moment of weakness and I had an upset tummy for my Christmas Day ,, oh dear,, lesson learnt,, not had a sit down curry for ages,, the prices have really gone up

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

I love a curry but all homemade these day, prawn bhuna was always my favorite or a rhogan josh

[@sandydixon3618]

We are having a low spend /no spend not only to be prudent about an unknown future but also for the ability to help those we love when and if they should need it. Nothing is worse to me than to have frivolously spent my resources then to find a family member or friend in need. Even though I try to be frugal I have spent on unnecessary things in 2022 so am excited to experience my first no/low spend year. Yours is one of the first you tube Chanel I go to for tour wonderful thrifty and frugal advice. Love you two!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks sandy

[@ginamedley8484]

I have struggled a lot with our spending and trying to save. My frost 2 goals are to do a pantry challenge for January and possibly February to use a lot of our dried goods and freezer food. After that my next goal is to not spend any more on credit cards and try and start with a $1000 emergency fund.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That’s a great goal

[@kindcounselor]

I do have no spend days and I'm working up (joyfully) because it can be fun) to have no spend months. This whole process sparks creativity!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing

[@kerstinkiel5314]

Loved when you said you save to not be poor.. that's going to be my 2023 motto. I do have lots of no spend days but this year, hopefully, i will not be buying any new clothes either. I don't need anything new for my house - i like what i've got. 2023 will also be spent finding and creating recipes for my new slow cooker and saving up for the other half of my roof to be completed. Was that Mary Poppins having fun in front of the mirror? she did make me laugh x

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

It was Mary poppins as a baby, she’s three now

[@kerstinkiel5314]

@@karlabritfeld7104 yes I had a leak which needed repairing straight away, so I got half the roof done. The other half of the roof will be done when I've saved up the money to get it completed by the same roofer.

[@JellybeanHouseNewfoundland]

You are so right! A low income doesn't always have to mean poverty. My husband and I are living below the poverty line with six children (and most often a couple of extra teenagers who turn up and don't leave for days, weeks, or months), two dogs, twenty-four chickens, and two rabbits in the second most expensive state in the U.S., and we are definitely not poor! We easily could be, especially with the prices of everything going up so much these days, but by being very careful and creative and eliminating or reducing many of our expenses, we've been able to do more and more with our modest income. Basically, my husband's salary pays for our rent, our gas (about a quarter of his salary each month goes for gas to get him to work!) and car expenses, our electric and Internet bills (our heat and water are included in our rent), our daughters' Brazilian jiu-jitsu classes and my husband and sons' gym membership, deposits to our emergency savings account and sinking funds, and my student loan payments. There is nothing left over from his salary for food, clothing, toiletries, medical bills, etc., so we get any money we need for those things from our side hustles: a small online business and my husband's tutoring service and tours. We spend very little on those things, though, because we are all very healthy (so not many medical bills--and we do have really good insurance through my husband's work) and we get most of the food and household items we need for free. Here in the United States, the waste stream is more a raging torrent than a stream, and with a little know-how we can easily tap into it to acquire the things we need without spending a lot of money. For example, in my town the transfer station hosts our local swap shop (or give-and-take shop), where people can donate anything they don't want or need and take anything left by others for free! It's not charity--it's just sharing--and you never have to worry about taking more than your share because so much stuff gets donated that the volunteers who run it don't know what to do with it all and end up having to throw some away. I get at least ninety percent of the clothing that my family needs there; we also get furniture, books, paper, candles, soaps, lotions, shoes, blankets and sheets, cooking pots and dishes--even strollers and bicycles--there. It is also very easy to live off food (and other items) discarded by retail stores in North America. (In France it is illegal for stores to throw out perfectly edible food--they have to donate it.). If you live in the U.S. or Canada and you've never seen this for yourself, drive by the back of your local supermarket today and check out the garbage bins or dumpster that they keep back there (and if there's nothing there today, check back later in the week). The bins are likely to be full of perfectly good food, sometimes not even near its expiration date and generally still in sealed packages inside clean garbage bags. At this time of year, in the colder parts of North America, the frozen or refrigerated stuff is even still cold. In our area, the WalMart Supercenters throw out the most good food, but other supermarkets discard a lot as well. We get a lot of food and household items from the Dollar General dumpster behind our house, too, and the Dollar Tree dumpster down the block--everything from laundry baskets, Christmas decorations, acrylic paints, sunscreen, toys, and clothing to cereal, crackers, and nuts. Check the laws in your state/community regarding dumpster diving before you jump in, of course--in my area it's perfectly legal as long as there's not a "no trespassing" sign. Also make sure you leave things at least as tidy as you found them and be as discrete as you can so you don't get asked to leave. I know that not everyone will want to try dumpster diving (or, as my husband calls it, "bin raiding"), but for those who can get past their initial nervousness or squeamishness, it can be an excellent way to save a huge amount of money (especially for those with a lot of mouths to feed), help others in need in your community, and do Mother Earth a favor as well.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@SharonR1105]

I’m trying something different this year. After I pay my fixed expenses I’m putting away what I want to save for the month. What is left is what I can spend. No feelings of deprivation. I saved a lot the last half of 2022 by paying myself first.

[@MarinaVlachou]

Useful advice like always. We're just beginning our frugal living, so we always listen and put to practice your suggestions.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Marina and welcome

[@vita8968]

I have no spend January and February. I simply do not go to the shops. I have plenty of food in the freezers and pantry. I am also fortunate that I have no debt at all. I have lots of interests and things to do to get on with during the days of not going out.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Great plan

[@ybois3]

Same here, similar situation. Many chores, projects keep me from going shopping and I don’t have many”wants”.I’m satisfied. I don’t even really like shopping.

[@karenpiete6970]

I am having a no spend January and my reasoning is that I have enough of what I need and just want to be contented with what I have already instead of just wanting more! I am starting with the month of January but really working toward the goal of a no spend year month by month commitment!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That’s a good reason

[@jbalconi5922]

2023 is my no-buy year. I had no choice. The water heater and furnace needed replacing earlier than planned, and they ate the home improvement savings.

[@impish22]

always helpful, especially during these times

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing

[@nataliecolbert5790]

This is my first low/no spend year. I have done weeks and months, but this will be my first year. Repair bills and high prices I’ve taken my savings lower than I am comfortable with and since I like being comfortable I am planning to replace that amount and certainly add to it. I don’t see things getting better in the near future and a larger safety net is needed

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

We all need that safety net

[@bria2596]

Me, too! This is exactly my goal - rebuilding my savings from the costs of 2022. Being uncomfortable makes it easier to hold to the goal.

[@eleanoremameli6641]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance so nice to find you again! You sound so sensible

[@quietpeasant]

We've never officially done any low or no-spend weeks/months, because we don't have the funds to go out and spend much anyways. I think we are going to try pushing ourselves a bit further and try one no-spend week a month as you do. We are also looking at things that we might choose to not buy at all. I should not need to buy any shoes or clothes for myself this year, my husband has only a few minimal needs, and I just sorted through and inventoried my kids' clothes today so that we can set an accurate clothing budget for them this year. Our why is to live below our means, continue saving money, work towards paying off our mortgage, and account for inflation/cost of living. Thanks for all you share!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much

[@janeyjohnson6847]

Hi Jane, great video as always. I've been on the frugal path a long while now and realised that some no spend days are no effort at all as they are part of my lifestyle. During the week Mon to Fri are no spend days as I take my lunch to work, do not go out at lunch or spend my lunchtime on ebay. It's just been a habit for so long that I would not swap. I sit quietly reading, drinking the coffee from work with my packed lunch. I feel so much more relaxed than going to a busy town centre or queuing for a coffee. I've always felt that the best frugal ways, for me, are the ones that I wouldn't ever dream of swapping. My quiet relaxing no spend lunch is one of them.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

We wouldn’t swap either

[@patmartin9727]

I too will be watching with interest as I have started setting up my 2023 budget and financal goals.

[@heatherj3030]

My husband and I are 50, debt free and mortgage free as of last spring. He will get a pension, but we want to retire in 5 to 10 years. It will likely be closer to 10 years, but the more we can save the sooner can do it. Our youngest is 17, and we still have expenses there, but other than that we should be able to start cutting back more.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good luck with your journey

[@heatherj3030]

Thank you! 😊

[@azgardenlover370]

What a wonderful place to be in. Good luck and enjoy the journey

[@preppernut]

I've always thought that we did well, saving a bit and not having a mortgage, also retiring early (although I never worked much...well, maybe I did--managing a farm and household is work). But lately I've been wondering if we could do better. I'll confess that I have been really sloppy with the bookkeeping. So we set an amount that we thought would be adequate for the month's expenses for food, gas, pantry items and discovered that it lasted only 3 weeks! Quite the eye-opener. I was tempted to simply add more money to the budget, but husband says to keep it at that level. So we will try that for another month and see how it goes.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much for sharing

[@maryannrogers8675]

My why is doing a low spend 2023 is to pay off my mortgage early. In 2022 I did a no buy on clothes, handbags and shoes. I’m 2023 I’m only buying second hand clothes from a thrift store. I’m being frugal to make a better future for myself and my family

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks so much

[@ibislife]

It seems I have a couple of videos to catch up on. 💕 I built a new house, we moved in Jan 2019. I never invested in curtains, made do with what we had, and living this frugal lifestyle, I am now on the search for curtains. So, 2 bedrooms will now get new curtains that fits! 😅 Or "new to me". I have bought curtains on Ebay. Good quality fabric. This is a sinking fund for me, household. 👍 I wish both of you a wonderful new year! 💕

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much for watching and catching up. Good luck with your curtains.

[@jimmiepatrum]

I was eagerly awaiting this video and you didn't disappoint. Looking forward to every single one of your Wednesday chats. I always learn so much. Diane in NC

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Dianne

[@Nicathatsme]

I’ve done low spend months before but have decided to kick it up a notch & do a low spend year in 2023. So I’m glad to see that you will be too & looking forward to your sage advice & inspiration this new year. I want to really examine the psychology behind my consumption habits, reduce waste in my home, and use what I already have in a deeper, grateful, and more meaningful manner. Not gonna lie, the extra savings I’ll build will be super!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good luck

[@itsbeckslife4585]

I really like the idea of your 'no spend week' at the end of each month and think we'll be working towards them ourselves. In the meantime I'm certainly monitoring what if anything we spend each day so that I can check for any patterns. Thanks for sharing your great ideas xx

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much

[@carolined3058]

2023 will be a no spent year cause of two major renovation projects. And is through your channel I'll be able to do it. Got a lot of good advice and practiced it. Almost full emergency fund, full sinking fund, no pay to pay check living anymore. Hard work but so happy . Thank you both

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That’s just wonderful

[@anns8893]

Thanks for sharing your knowledge with us. We don't have any no spend months. We just have to purchase necessities and no wasting money on items we don't need. Love your little dog it's so Adorable.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@leeshy1902]

I feel very fortunate that I don't enjoy shopping, so this automatically helps to keep my spending low. The only thing I shop for regularly is food. I only buy clothes when we desperately need them. No spend months are great and we try to have a no spend February every year once the children have gone back to school. Thanks for sharing your thrifty and frugal tips to help others.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much

[@janetstonerook4552]

I don't like to shop much either, especially in crowded stores. If I need a non- food item, I pop in a store just at opening time when few shoppers are out and am in and out in 10 minutes.

[@mrsc3120]

I would rather spend a little money on a few nice experiences rather than material goods. So other than utilities, food running my car and saving for emergencies my 2023 budget is sorted. Happy new year to the both of you.🥳

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much for sharing

[@misslanapaulford]

Hi. We have no spends days in the form of, We stay in until we run out of perishable food like bread. We'll stock up on big shop. For example Friday before this Christmas Essentials were paid for Rent, Water G/E we top up and then big shop. So since Friday evening we haven't stepped out of the house till tomorrow which will be Thursday. That's our version of no spend and we tend to do more so at the end of the month..

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Sounds great to me

[@destiellover]

I started last year a non spend on a list of stuff which I track if I don't break (with 5 exceptions per month) then I reward myself with extra £5 towards a sinking fund. With tracking other habits similar, I had a pot of £695 towards Xmas.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That’s great

[@NicolaatTheFrugalCottage]

As you know I’m doing something similar. I already love your channel but this is so inspiring. I would love to meet you one day and discuss things like this in person ❤️

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

We should have a chat over messenger sometime.

[@NicolaatTheFrugalCottage]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance I would like that ☺️

[@yvonnethorpe5224]

You also give good advice Nicola😀

[@NicolaatTheFrugalCottage]

@@yvonnethorpe5224 Thank you :)

[@patmartin9727]

You are also a great inspiration via your channel.

[@newknitterlinda2824]

Your cheerful way and good ideas make being frugal a fun game versus self denial. Looking forward to watching and applying I had not seen you yet such a lovely coincidence opened KZbin and there you were happy about that Linda and Allan from canada

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks and welcome.

[@Disflop]

As ever - brilliant and relevant content. Thanks to your channel I am weaning myself from consumerism - I will add I am fortunate enough to be able to afford to spend money - but the truth of the matter is it is not the answer to anything!! And I am planning my first ever no spend month - wish me luck!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good luck

[@katehorrell8732]

Hope u both had a wonderful Christmas. I never realized until I started this frugal journey in June that I was having No spend weekends, n weeks which turned into No spend months. I'm on a fixed low income n found that when I sat down n really thought about how I needed to save money, n discovering video's like your's on You tube, that there was a name for what I was doing, NO SPEND. The longest I have gone is 3 months, so jumping back on board Jan 1 n hoping to save more than $1200 this yr. Have a safe n prosperous New Yr

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much for watching and sharing your story

[@lin90210]

Happy New Year!

[@jeannet9592]

I appreciate your practical advice, honesty and helpful ideas. Thank you.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@alisonwheeler8929]

Nice also to hear you be so open about saving for the day should one of you. It be there - brave. Not many talk openly about it. Thrifty living has helped us to weather this. We are doing a no spend January - it feels right this time of the year - May well carry on into Feb and March!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Yep, we’re all going to die one day.

[@gladyschandler6724]

I'm working on being debt free by end of January, and living just on my s.s. & pension without accessing my RMD and reinvesting those funds. I'm also on target to pay my mortgage in 3 years. In 2022 I was able to put an extra $500 towards the mortgage principle. I'm also going to take a vacation in Italy paying for it in cash with planning carefully. I'll retire mid-March. I'll have a no spent/low spend January. Thank you, Jane. I've always been thrifty but not always frugal.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You’re doing great

[@kelleymiller2337]

I love your no spend week at the end of every month. Great way to reset and get ready for the new month. I plan on trying that in 2023. My why is because my husband and I will be retiring in less than 2 years and want to be prepared for the reduction in income.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Have a great retirement

[@jackleentoop7693]

Thank you Jane, I watch you every time.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much for watching

[@corinnedews7277]

I've never done a no spend month, but I have done a no new clothes year and managed just fine with what I have. I don't buy clothes or shoes unless I really need them and I have a frugal/ make do and mend mindset which our daughters seem to have inherited! One way I save is by transferring the 2 months' money that would have gone on water rates and council tax, as we pay them over 10 months in County Durham, England. I also have savings moved by standing order every month as part of our outgoings, then what's left is for food and petrol. Thanks for the helpful chats!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing what works for you

[@annettefridfalk333]

Sweden here 😀im going to try no spend year. Trying to save 6month expenses..

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That’s a great goal

[@geambro6900]

And i've finally brought myself to write a budget and stick to it, which I took mostly from your example and teachings ! So thank you for that !

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Great news!

[@Amandaayres123]

January is never a no spend month for me with my birthday and daughter’s birthday. My daughter is having her first ever birthday party this time (she will be 4) and I will have a nice day out with family for my birthday. February will kick off my no spend month which I will track so I have a record of it. I’ve done my 2023 budget and it’s going to very tight indeed! 😮

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

We have birthdays to but they are budgeted for with sinking funds.

[@barbaracarbone4658]

I don't have a no-spend week/month. But sometimes it just happens anyway. Ty for the vid. Stay well.💕

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Barbara

[@shelleyimmel8067]

I have not had no spend days of months but I am going to work on that in 2023 because I want to get rid of debt and not create more. I have a great life and don't need anything. Working at staying healthy in all ways retired in Oregon now going on 3 years😇 Love your videos.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much

[@Neverenoughholidays]

Thank you Jane! Really enjoyed your new video. So important to always remember ‘why’ you’re doing your no spend days/months. Many thanks ✨

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks so much

[@suebee1540]

I am doing a No Spend January. My goal is to save and invest. The reasons I have written down are: a) to reset my spending habits; b) To add to my emergency fund; C) To add to my retirement fund; and D) most importantly is the Aggegation of Marginal Gains.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

All great goals

[@CharlesAvilaMeasInst]

I havenot had a no spend Month or day before but am inspired to try. My husband and I are debt and mortgage free and could use se reinforcement to stay cautious with spending. I'm going g to have a no-spwnd January for the first time ever this year and am looking forward to what will happen!!

[@mariaevans5046]

Well I'm going to go for it and "try " to have a complete no spend month - full tank of petrol tomorrow for the month. About 6 necessities for my groceries for 1st January and good to go..... wish me luck !!!!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good luck, let us know how you get on

[@janeburke147]

Hi Jane,I did well last year getting into No spends & I’ve had a really bad back these last four weeks & thought is it due to grooming my poodles myself on the floor etc,,being thrifty I researched & where one time I would be impulsive,I have an old table that I’m making into a grooming table for my poor back lol & my dogs will look presentable again,thanks 👍🏻☃️

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

That’s a really important purchases and poodles are wonderful and need grooming.

[@janeburke147]

@@FrugalQueeninFrance Oh yes,there’re my world 👍🏻🙂

[@marthaosborne9625]

Hi! I just found you from Frugal Stu! I really enjoyed this video and you are inspiring me to try to get started. I am awful with money. By the way, the quilt in your couch is lovely 🙂

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You’re welcome and good luck with your journey

[@libbyrehn7184]

I am going to join you on the no spend month this January!! I was reflecting on your question at the end and I unintentionally have no spend Monday-Friday as I work and dont go out anywhere else on these days and have always taken my own lunch to work and made coffee to go from home :) !! Just weekends I tend to spend to much. So i am excited to see what can happen for me over the coming weeks with no spend month. I also plan to only spend $100 (AUD) a week on my weekly grocery shop for my family of 3. Excited to make it happen :)

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing

[@seekingjoynow1722]

There are some really smart people who follow this channel. So much wisdom and self control. I never learned good money habits from my family but I can learn now...

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very w

[@SpatchG]

Excellent vlog again Jane and Mike. This year will be as low spend as possible for us too. You keep me motivated.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for your feedback

[@akkedegroot4883]

I work 2 days a week and those are my no spend days. It works most weeks but when i am off on those days, it's harder to stick to it. I bring a packed lunch and make my own instant coffee. Even though there is a Costa... temptation all arond..

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good for you

[@zilzteid5662]

My sister and I will be attempting a no-spend January in 2023. It's a first for me, but you have been such an inspiration to me and I want to see how I can manage. I think we will all need to change our spending habits in future. Happy New Year and I look forward to more frugal videos from you and Mike this year. Also, I just love you little pooch.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much

[@tonideluca8569]

Yes I do have no spend days and weeks ❤️❤️

[@frugalstu]

Loving it. It's a great start to a new year. Loving your content

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much

[@abidashah4943]

Thank you so so much.brillant going to watch all your videos 📹 .can't wait for 2023.low spend year .can't wait ✋ gor your frugak videos .ajoy andpleasure to watch bless u and family with joyhappynes always.Keepsafe take care 🙂 ❤ 💙 ♥ 💖 💜 🙂 ❤

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks so much

[@lynnoorman2144]

I aim to have 20 no spend days per month and record my no spend in diary ( which I also use as a journal ) each evening while having half an eye on the TV or during the adverts. Usually I average about 24 no spend days (this includes food shopping) each month. Meal planning and know what the special offers are forms a big part of this. Brilliant video.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching

[@beckypetersen2680]

I really like your style - so just normal - not acting like the authority, but doing what works - and so full of common sense which in this day and age isn't so common anymore. Thanks! I only found you a few months ago. Did you explain somewhere why you chose to live in France and not Great Britain? Do you speak French? Does it matter if you don't in your daily lives?

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Yes we did, lots of videos where we answer those questions

[@asavannah7439]

I never spend much money anyway (only on vacations), but I’ve had a no spend year so far (it’s the 18th of February) Let’s see how long I can keep it up!

[@helenhartley6904]

My sinking fund for unexpected household costs went up and down during 2022, exactly as anticipated. It was great to have the money put aside to replace or repair needed items. My other sinking fund, which built up in 2021 and 2022, is for holidays/adventures and will be accessed in 2023 (going bush for a few months) and to prepay a cruise in 2024. We also still have our emergency fund and my small income increases by 25% in May which will help.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Great to hear that

[@loriar1027]

I have never tried a “no spend” period of time, though I’ve tried in a disorganized kind of way to be “low spend” for periods of time. Personally I don’t do well with money unless I have it all written down in advance and can see in black and white where it’s all going. Unfortunately my husband doesn’t work that way. He’s more frugal by nature than I am but he refuses to do a written down budget. It’s very frustrating as I’ve just retired and we’re struggling to make ends meet. I like your way of doing things.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much for sharing

[@LittlePinkPiggy1]

I don't deliberately do "no spend" days etc as I am a consistent "low spender" and have been for many, many years. This is through choice because my husband and I decided to stop working at the age of 53 with no mortgage or debts. He has a private pension. We knew that we could live off his pension if we were careful with money. We love having our free time and this is more precious to us than anything we could ever possibly buy. If we weren't careful we would have to go to work and that is something we hope we never have to do. Thank you for an informative and inspiring video Jane.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

We retired early for exactly the same reason, to have more time together.

[@rosaestrada41]

Hi Jane I followed your no spend week. I’m happy to tell you that that money saved went to sinking funds. Thank you again for your ideas. ❤️❤️❤️

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much for your feedback

[@katielee9354]

We did a 'low spend' 2022 and it worked so well. This year we are doing a 'no spend and make do and mend year 'and to help stay on track l have bought a large journal (the last spend of the year l hope' )to write in it on a Friday how i'm doing. l dont need any new clothes and definitely no more hobby items as iv enough to last a couple of years , let alone l year . We plan on 'no more junk food' for the year as we want to get healthier. Every single food item in my shopping trolley from now on will be scrutinized for 'junk' and put back. The money saved will be for the following year for a new bathroom we wanted but decided to leave it for one more year. We will still have food treats at weekends, but they will be home made from healthy ingred from now on. In my journal lv started collecting the recipes for them to help me stay on track. Our home grown food garden is halfway finished and will be completed by the Spring when all the flowers and shrubs are moved to the front garden , so we now have loads more space to expand our other veg and fruit plots. I'm so looking forward to my challenge and thank you for all your motivational video's you always do.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

You have a great plan there

[@janetstonerook4552]

I had to have new siding installed on my rather large house in November and didn't have enough in that set aside account to cover everything. So emptied out my savings account as well. I'm going low spend for the next few months to build that back up. Because no impulse buy feels as good to me as having that nice cushion in my savings account! 🤔

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Exactly

[@bookgal]

Thanks for this Jane and Mike… you’ve given us some great tips and info. I’m going to try to spend very little in 2023; in 2022 I bought everything I think we’ll need for the foreseeable future because of rising prices. Looking forward to planting a big veggie garden this year… enough potatoes, carrots, onions, garlic, spinach, zucchini, tomatoes and peppers to last us all year.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much

[@Sally-wm5jh]

We do a no spend month in January and February every year. We try for another one later but we decide that as the year progresses. We don't eat out since the food isn't good quality usually and we both have health issues so it's just safer to eat at home. Cheaper too since the prices have gone up so much. Grew up frugal and have lived that way all my life. We live below our income and always manage to put money in the savings. We just gave up our garden last year so the food budget will go up for this next year, but we won't have gardening expenses so it should average out. We have been debt and mortgage free for about 5 years now.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing

[@juliejames3338]

should really try the no spending challenge ......you know how expensive life is, here in france; best of luck with your plans and a happy new year xx

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

It’s the price we pay for living here. Thanks for watching.

[@heatherj3030]

I already commented, but I just wanted to thank you Jane! I kept stopping the video to go over each aspect that I could improve on. You have definitely inspired me for a low spend year and to work on sinking funds. Thanks again! I hope you have a Happy New Year's!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Heather

[@traceyhilstad5603]

I’ve never done a no spend anything before but for 2023 I’m going to do a no spend week two weeks out of each month. I’m excited to give it a try.

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good for you

[@denisearonow4921]

I'm in. I've got three no spend "wants" categories for the year, and a four low(er) than last year spend "needs" categories. 'Been tracking and budgeting for nine years so know what comes in and goes out (too much last couple of years).

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good luck Denise

[@paulinegagne-bertrand9871]

For the first time I am planning a no spend January shopping my freezer and pantry. Just buying the necessities like milk and eggs and the odd vegetable to compliment a meal. Looking forward to seeing how I do on this challenge. Happy New Year .

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good luck, I’m sure you’ll do it

[@belindacopson2390]

I am all set up with my budget goals for 2023. My plans include adding to house sinking fund as we have essential planned home maintenance to do. Other than that it will be a low spend year. Wishing you and Mike a very successful and positive 2023!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks Belinda

[@chloenewman4669]

We have no spends to save for things like winter heating bills, emergencies etc. January is going to be a cut back and no spend month for sure xx

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Good luck and thanks for watching

[@anvd9493]

Every month is a low spend month. My salary is being paid on my savings account. Each month I book the necessary amount for the monthly costs on my other account, so everything get's paid automatically. Extra stuff doesn't come in, except after making the mindfull choice. That's how I live now for 6 years since my divorce. The why is: I never want to be broke again, I want to be independent, and I want to be able to work for pleasure, and not because I have to. Since this year, I followed my heart and work as a teacher instead of a banker. A dream come true, thanks to a frugal and grateful mindset!

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for sharing

[@sharronwall7361]

Amazing video and comments! I'm on a constant low buy as i hate clutter... My goal for the year is to not visit 'discount' stores for example B&M, Home Bargains poundland etc. The old adage is very true "You don't tell B&M what your buying, it tells you!" No more.. we nickname these shops the £20 shop. You go in for washing liquid (cos its cheaper) and come out £20 poorer. We have also not renewed our Costco membership (AKA the £100 shop) shopping in these shops has led to clutter that has went to the charity shop and more importantly wasting a lot of money. My Why?! Well as a specialist nurse working in the NHS.. I'm tired and ready to retire, but i still have a mortgage. This is my (our) why and my goal. We are only 45 and 48 but want so much more out of life than work (even though we love our jobs). Thank You Jane and Mike and wishing you a very happy 2023 :)

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Jobs used to sustain us, now they’re there to kill us if we don’t get out early

[@teresagalloway1313]

I closed Amazon account, froze all but one credit card & I pay the open credit card before it’s due; no interest. Have a years plus of food. On social security 🤪 New crazy year coming. Thank you Jane, your advice is priceless 🦋T💜

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks very much for sharing

[@mariannejoynes6541]

Great video! I’m planning a no spend January. I’ll be going as low as I can on groceries and go for 1 week without buying any. My reason? Well I’ve been a bit OTT lately and it’s just unnecessary. I’m going to continue my no spend as long as I can and whatever I save I’m putting away for a nice girlie weekend with my friends as I’ve not been away from home in 4 years. I think it’s a really motivating goal so I’m going for it. Thanks for your inspiring vlogs, they are so helpful in this ever increasingly expensive and commercially driven world! Happy new year to you both! 🎉❤

[@FrugalQueeninFrance]

Thanks for watching