Times have definitely changed.

Last week I was in the grocery store getting a couple things. I have been ordering Walmart delivery and I guess haven't noticed the price of coffee? Who knows. But anyway....the large container was $18.99! Over the years of doing all the grocery shopping, I have come to learn and almost memorize the prices of what I purchase. However, this day I was shocked! And it is just a sign of the times.

I pay attention to the economy. And those who study it for their careers. And I think the main concern of mine is will prices ever go down? Many economists are saying no, they will not go down.

You might say "Well then how the hell in the world am I going to afford this or that moving forward?" And that is the million dollar question isn't it? I wish I had an answer for you, but I don't have a good one. Do you cancel your subscriptions you don't use? You should, but that won't get you there. Do you try to get a new job making more money? Yes, but good luck doing that in this job market.

For me it always comes back to one thing. And that is your lifestyle. Beginning the second half of my life as an unmarried single father, I have been much more purposeful on how I am living and how money comes into play. And most of the time, the money I spend doesn't bring me as much joy as the moments I have that cost nothing. The focus is more on purposeful time, than spending to have an experience. I am not saying don't travel or do the things you love that cost money. But really think about what those things bring you. And if they don't bring you what you want, cut them. And it will make that large container of coffee sting a bit less.