Happy Father’s Day/Sunday! Just finished Chernobyl and started Big Little Lies. Whoo, I’ve been on an HBO roll lately! I wanted to share some tips on how to reduce financial stress this summer.

Trust me, I’ve been there… and I think I’m there right now. Quick summary of what’s going on – I was not expecting to have a month off from work aka no income. I had planned on working my BU job until I transitioned over, but I graduated and turns out, switching over to temp would’ve been a process.

Without a plan in mind, I was STRESSED. I put everything up for sale on Poshmark/Mercari and started avoiding making plans with people just to avoid spending.

I was going through the most… but now, I’m a little bit more calm (thank God!)

Here are some tips on how I’m slowly getting out of that rut and hope you can relate!

No gym membership? No problem!

Summer is one of my fav times of the year bc this only means free outdoor workouts! Whether you’re in NYC/LA/Boston, there is a wide plethora of events listed on your region’s calendar! Remember last summer when I maximized NYC’s outdoor workouts? I’m doing the same in Boston. From Seaport Sweat, Fit + Fabulous Cambridge, to MindBody Boston and Chestnut Hill boot camps, these are just a few options made readily available! I’ve also started incorporating more outdoor runs by the Charles River! I’m not huge on running in residential areas or having to stop at a red light, so I prefer running on a trail.

Ditch the car. Walk and use public transportation everywhere!

I don’t have a car here in Boston, so I’ve always been reliant on the T. Since I’m no longer a student and can’t use a student T pass anymore, I just can’t see myself spending $90 on a monthly T pass (effective July 1st). I’ve decided to add $$ onto my pass each time I use it and add extra steps in instead. I’m lucky to live in a pretty walkable city though. Cities like LA definitely don’t pave the way for opportunities like that, so I get it… but I honestly suggest utilizing summer time as a great way to get that iced coffee and get more steps in. Just yesterday, I had 8K steps simply bc Brian and I decided to explore the Seaport area and just walk everywhere!

Do a (closet) cleanse!

I’ve been purging out my closet slowly, and I’ve managed to put things on sale via Poshmark/Mercari (the usual). You can also go to your local Buffalo Exchange and get 30% on the items you sell. This is also efficient if you’re signing a new lease in September and want to lessen the number of items you’d have to pack when the time comes.

Seek random cash opportunities!

Okay maybe it’s just a me thing, but I’ve been scoping out random one-time research studies to be a part of. I usually do studies affiliated with universities and they’re pretty low commitment. I had one last week where I just had to sit in a room and watch different videos while they monitored my neurotransmitters! Additionally, a friend referred me to a one-time gig where all I had to do was greet guests at a party! While I was super exhausted by the end of my (4p-10p shift – throwback to my Victoria’s Secret vibes), I am thankful for that opportunity!

And lastly…

If you’re looking for things to do, there is plenty to do for FREE. From outdoor movies, workouts, to different events, attending these for social gatherings/date nights will go easy on your wallet. You can also go to the beach, attend BBQs, host potluck, etc and you’d be all set!

Enjoy your summer!!!