Tamika Talks

Sundresses, Sandals, Staycations and a Savings Plan

By Tamika Stembridge

I’ve spent the last few weekends cleaning my home, organizing my closet, and testing out summer-ready hairstyles. Although I wish it were in anticipation of some island getaway, I am excited that all of these pre-Summer formalities are actually in preparation for a super cool summer AT HOME!

I’m sure you’ve been bombarded with a slew of financial tools and tips…

Pay yourself first. Get a side-hustle. Plan for the future. Buy some insurance. Get your credit together. Track your spending. Give back!

This summer, I am lightening my load and gathering for the winters to come, instead of packing for pricey getaways, booking brunches, or hopping happy hours. I know this may sound like a recipe for a ‘Cruel Summer’, but I promise you I’m about to have a ball, and I hope you’ll join me. Here’s how:

1. Sundresses & Sandals… FOR SALE!!!

I know we’re supposed to give back, but there are some things that I value way too much to toss into a bin at the Goodwill. Translation – I paid way too much money to be throwing things away! So I sell them, for a reasonable price, and am a blessing to some other stylish gal who is looking to be cute AND save money! I use Poshmark, but there’s Facebook Marketplace, Shopify, and tons of other resale websites and apps. Pick one and get to posting! If they don’t sell within a certain time (30 days, maybe), then donate away!

2. Staycation on Fleek!

I live in Philadelphia, and there is ALWAYS something happening for free or low cost. However, I spend so much time on the road that I haven’t explored all that my city has to offer. That, my loves, is why I plan on being “HOME” all #Summer2018! You can do the same, find undiscovered neighborhoods, parks or day trips that you can explore when not enjoying the comforts of your own home.

3. Set Your Sights on Summer 2020 and Beyond!

Finally, as a good friend once told me, “…there will be more sunny days!” Use this summer to do some soul searching and life planning. Envision the future you truly desire and use the longer days to map out a strategy to get you there.

For more Tamika Talks! Visit www.mydfree.org and sign up for our newsletter. Find me in the social media mix @TheFreeBlackGirl on Instagram, @OGFreeBlackGirl on Twitter, and connect with the dfree® Financial Freedom Movement @mydfree on all platforms. i