No spending month

So normally February is our "no Spending Month", the month that we don't buy anything extra or anything that we don't need. Unfortunately this year it just didn't work out. I had a bunch of lab work that needed to be done, doctor visits for me and the kids and my focus just wasn't there. We will have a "No Spending Month", but it will have to be later. I did challenge my mom to take February and see what she was capable of. I was not too hopeful that she would do it, or even stick with it. I was surprised to find out that she had made a commitment to me and herself to do it. She would call me every few days and keep me posted on her success and struggles. She would let me know where she was struggling and I would give her ideas and suggestions on how she could save money. (She called and found out she can get her prescriptions for a lot cheaper than she was getting them, which is going to save her a LOT in the months to come!) She never called to complain, and in fact, would thank me for giving her this challenge ever time. She decide to stop using her AM EX, (I had been telling her that for years, but she had to figure it out on her own, which was great!) and even chose not to renew her Costco membership. I gave my mom $20 with a note on it in the beginning of the month that said it was for an emergency. She said she wasn't going to use it and was going to stick to her plan.
Yesterday my parents came out and my mom gave me my $20 back. I am so proud of her and what she has FINALLY learned about herself. One, she can do anything she puts her mind to. Two, she has very few needs that can easily be met with the money she brings in and a little planning. And best of all, don't give up on yourself. Believe in yourself and don't give up! My mom said she had so much fun doing the challenge that she is now challenging herself in other areas. I could not have asked for a better outcome. What a wise woman to listen to her youngest daughter. ;)
I would challenge everyone to see what you are capable of. Have a "No Spending Month". You will quickly find out that it is not just about the money. You will feel more empowered in your life and look at things much differently. The little pain you may feel in the beginning, will be worth the reward in the end. And hey, if anything, you will have a bunch of extra money to spend at the end of the month. :)