SEE CHART HERE: https://imgur.com/a/yoYncrQ
Created with data imported from Mint.com, using Sankeymatic.com
NOTICE: Only post-tax dollars included. I have other assets which are funded with pre-tax dollars not shown on this graph. These include an HSA (max) and other tax-deferred retirement accounts.
BACKGROUND: I moved to the Bay after graduating with a Master's from a top 10 US institution in the field. I lived with my girlfriend for the first half of the year, until she landed a better job in a different area. As a result, I have become a relatively skilled cook.
JOB SITUATION: During 2018, I held 4 separate W-2 positions, while supplementing my income by tutoring teenagers. By my calculation, I was only gainfully employed for about 30 weeks out of the 52 available in the calendar year. During the toughest stretch, I temporarily moved to Sacramento for 2 months, where I found a cheap sublease.
REASONING: This was a difficult challenge, but having zero debt to my name, I thought that a wise budget could help tide me over. Towards the end of the year, I started working for a base salary of $60,000 in a different part of CA, a position that I'm still holding today. You'll notice I am a bit prone to overspending on wardrobe staples, such as dress shoes and shirts. This is an area where I do not like to compromise on quality or materials. Otherwise, I think I did a decent job of not spending on frivolous things.
NEXT STEPS: Based on my education, skills, and experience, Glassdoor seems to believe that I'm worth between $86,000 and $94,000 annually in my current area. Therefore, I have started applying to some roles in my area that would be a good fit and offer compensation in line.
PS: I was eventually able to fill up my Roth IRA for 2018. That contribution is not reflected because it was made around April 2019...with money I received back from the IRS. Ha!
Submitted May 21, 2019 at 02:13AM by MassThrowawayDotOrg http://bit.ly/2HMs6Lg
