What makes you frugal? Why do you try so hard to save money? Why do you do the right thing? Many things inspire us to be this way. It is a choice. Really.

Some choose to spend and be in debt. Some choose to fritter away money. Some choose to not save for the future hoping that somehow....some way they make it in old age.

If you look back I am sure you will see a pattern or a turning point in which you decided to change your ways. For me growing up I felt a sense of responsibilty from my parents to work hard and save. They were great parents who gave me a good childhood. I never want to seem ungrateful or unworthy of it.
I always was taught to save and to spend money wisely by parents who were wonderful role models. I worked jobs all thru high school and beyond. I enjoyed being a good worker and being rewarded. That is where the people pleasing part of me begun. I loved to save in my small bank account as a young person. It made me feel safe knowing I had my own money tucked away.

When I got married I felt responsible to not spend too much and to be frugal. My husband at the time, was building a new mortgage business from bare bones and we were taking risks at the time to grow it. I stayed at home and mothered for many years. At home with children I loved it and enjoyed it...yet I lost myself and any sense of control of money and finance I once learned and knew. I depended on my husband to make all the choices and descions. I got lost in the shuffle. Yet I felt I had to be somewhat frugal at the time so I could be at home. As his business grew I lived in fear that it all could fail or go bust. He liked risk and lost money in may stocks that went south.

Now I am divorced with four kids and I choose to stay frugal. I have to make it work as I am responsible 100% for my future. I do not like risk for the sake of taking risk. I choose to be frugal as a way to also be thankful and grateful. I also feel it is a safer way to live. Safety agrees with me.

At times it is not easy but at certain times in my life being frugal has been an inspiration and has lead to many other blessings. When I choose to be frugal I feel empowered not denied. I feel contentment not emptiness. It can at times bring me such joy and peace that surpasses all understanding. Being frugal can indeed be very inspiring.