I know that Personal Finance experts all recommend setting up a $500 Emergency Fund.  Well my household blew threw that number in January.  As of today, we have had $3,000 in unexpected expected expenses since the beginning of the year.  I know you just fell off your chair.  But did you fall off because of sympathy for me or because you wouldn’t be able to survive having to put out $3,000 in 6 months?

Since the year began, we had to upgrade the electrical box in one of our rental properties.  Then we had to replace the furnace in that same Property.  And then there was a water leak at that property a few months later. (I might need to think about whether the current tenant is bringing me bad luck.)  But the repairs didn’t stop there.  The air conditioning at my house died and had to be repaired.  Then there was a water leak at a different rental property.  And today, my dishwasher sprung a leak.  As a side note, I’m tired of repairs and putting out money for repairs.

Some of the cost for these repairs was absorbed by the home warranty plans we have on each property.  However, we still had to put out $3,000 from our pockets.  A $500 emergency fund would not have cut it.  And we still have half a year to go.  I have that same “what the hell” look on my face that you have on yours.

My friends hear me say all the time that I like to keep my money in my pocket.  And these unexpected repairs are exactly why.  I don’t like to worry or lose sleep over problems.  I really, really, really like to sleep well.  When you spend your money on shopping, expensive vacations, and high end cars, your pockets are empty when emergencies happen.  And then you’re freaking out about how to come up with the money.

My hubby and I have always lived on less than we make…because life happens. I don’t feel like I’m deprived of a good life.  Just the opposite. I believe I have a good life because of keeping my money in my pocket.  Retailers don’t care about me. Hotels don’t care about me.  Car dealerships don’t care about me.  When I’m in a bind, I can’t call them for help.

How many times have you been stressed out by unexpected expenses?  More times than you probably can count.  Guess what?  You carry that stress to work.  It makes you less productive at work.  And your Boss Notices it.  My husband tells me all the time that he can tell when his employees are stressed out.  He sees the changes in their work habits.  He notices the decline in work getting done.  And  he remembers when it’s time for raises and promotions. Do you really want your boss to think about you that way?

Most people find it hard to change their Financial behaviors.  There usually isn’t enough motivation.  Retirement is too far off to be a great motivator.  Well, here’s a motivator you should be able to get behind.  Your job and your career are significantly affected by your financial stress.  And your boss notices it.  And he remembers.  And its reflected in your lack of promotions or salary increases.  So what are you going to change in your financial behavior to get your next promotion?