Phil Risher changed college majors a few times before settling on international business.
And then real life hits you in the face, Risher said, looking back.
Risher didnt speak a foreign language, so he decided to capitalize on his communication and customer service skills.
By setting a big goal andblogging about the experienceso others can replicate his success.
But it wasnt the easiest choice.
Probably not as good as youd like.
It always seems like an uphill battle to build (and keep) a decent amount in savings.
But what if your car breaks down, or you have a sudden medical bill?
Ask one of these companies to help…
When Risher approached his father and stepmother about living with them, they wanted rent.
He explained his financial goal and what it would take to achieve it.
They saw I was working and grinding on this budget.
Risher brought home about $3,000 per month after taxes.
He spent $20 for gas twice a month.
Did you know?
When his second paycheck came in June, he started his aggressive loan repayment.
When he wasnt tending to chores for his parents, Risher tried to stay busy.
Find things that are free and fun that you like to do, Risher said.
He loves playing basketball and even coached his little brothers basketball team.
I like hiking, and thats free,andI can take my dog, he said.
Hisfrugal hobbieshave even carried over post-debt.
Its weird for a 22-year-old social butterfly to bring a book, he said.
Each week I would set aside $20 for eating out, he said.
I saw a homeless man on the corner, and he asked me for money.
Instead, I askedhimfor 10 cents.My co-workers couldnt believe that I asked a homeless man for money.
Most people would have just put it on the credit card and swiped away, Risher said.
But he was determined to stick to his plan.
And then… he continued to live at his parents house.
He knows his path is anything from normal.
Once we reach that point, were scared to fail and scared to even talk about money and budgeting.
The mindset was hard to shift, but Risher now feels hes in charge of his money.
I dont want to be the guy that just talks, he said.
I want to be the guy doing things.
What about all the travel he planned to do when he was an international business major?
Thats actually my goal this year, he said.
Im planning an epic road trip for March 2018.
But theres always time to work on a new goal.
Lisa Rowan is a senior writer and producer at The Penny Hoarder.
It sounds appealing right?
Check it out here!
