Listener Megan reveals her weekly expenses of $400, highlighting her marathon training and Costco trips while managing her credit card.
Age: 47
Location: Long Island, NY
Occupation: Office Manager
Marital Status: Married, No Kids
Total Weekly Spending: ~$400
Megan is meticulous with her finances, having avoided credit card interest for over two decades. Residing in Long Island with her husband, she combines disciplined budgeting with enjoyable spending. From eyebrow maintenance to marathon training, her financial choices reflect her values of independence and joy.
She strongly believes in financial independence within marriage. “We pool our savings but keep our spending funds separate,” she explains. “This arrangement works for us; we don’t need to consult each other for every purchase.”
Let’s explore how Megan allocated her funds over six days.
Day 1: Eyebrow Tinting and Tipping Thoughts
? Total Spent: $71
Megan started her week with a self-care treat: eyebrow waxing and tinting ($59 plus a $12 tip). Although she enjoyed the outcome, she questioned whether it was worth the expense again. “After a second visit, I felt she overdid it. Now, I just use Just For Men and do it myself for $13.”
As someone who previously worked in food service, she always tips well. Even for salon owners, “I’ll always offer,” she shares. “They usually accept it.”
Day 2: Costco Shopping and the Reality of Hobbies
? Total Spent: ~$130
A quick trip to Costco turned into a $130 spree, including sunblock, yogurt, protein bars, and a $5 rotisserie chicken. Megan has been a Costco member for 20 years, maximizing her executive membership. “Once I started buying cat food and litter there, I began visiting every other week. It’s definitely worth it.”
She picked up protein bars for her marathon training, but later realized they weren't ideal. “They’re not great for pre-run snacks; a nutritionist friend pointed out they have too much protein.”
Day 3 & 4: Separate Spending, Joint Savings
? Total Spent: ~$250 (estimated for both days)
Megan and her husband value their partially separate finances for maintaining harmony. “I cover most small bills, while he manages the mortgage,” she explains. “We don’t need to check in before making purchases, which is crucial for us.”
She recognizes this system may not suit everyone. “Some find it unusual, especially older folks,” she notes. “But when I mention it to younger friends, they all say, ‘Oh, we do that too.’”
Day 5: Coffee Dates and Smart Spending
? Total Spent: ~$85
Friday involved several minor purchases: coffee, lattes for her and her husband, sunblock from Ulta, and a $50 payment to her landscaper. However, Megan views these as intentional choices. “Going out for coffee with my running friends is worth it,” she states. “Brunch would’ve cost more.”
She also highlights the difference between planned takeout and impulsive food purchases. “I don’t mind spending on takeout, but I dislike doing it because I waited too long to eat.”
Day 6: Grocery Shopping for Bean Salad
? Total Spent: ~$27
A brief grocery trip resulted in a small expenditure. Megan only needed a few ingredients for a bean salad. This kind of low-pressure shopping is typical for her.
Final Thoughts: Merging Marathon Mindset with Finances
? Total Weekly Spend: ~$400
This week wasn’t particularly low in spending, but it wasn’t excessive either. For Megan, every dollar has significance, whether for enjoyment or social activities. “I check my account weekly, sometimes more, to pay off my credit card. If I can’t cover something from checking, I’ll dip into savings — but only as a last resort.”
When it comes to long-term planning, she and her husband are on the same page. “We save together for important goals like home renovations or travel, while managing daily expenses individually. It simply works for us.”
