WELCOME TO HOW I Spend My Money, a series on The Journal that looks at how people in Ireland really handle their finances. 

Are you a spender, a saver or a splurger? We’re asking readers to keep a record of how much they earn, what they save if anything, and what they’re spending their money on over the course of one week. If you’re interested, send a mail to money@thejournal.ie. We would love to hear from you.

Each money diary is submitted by readers just like you. When reading and commenting, bear in mind that their situation will not be relatable for everyone, it is simply an account of a week in their shoes, so let’s be kind.

Last time around, we heard from a healthcare worker on €83K who is currently on maternity leave while expecting her first child. This week, an administrator on €35K living in the Midlands. 

I am single and living alone in the Midlands. I bought my house outright, so I’m fortunate to have no rent or mortgage to pay. For this reason, I am content to be in a job with lower pay compared to my qualifications, as the trade-off is that I’m not under pressure and I have a very short commute to the office. I would describe my quality of life as excellent.

I enjoy reading and cooking when I’m at home. I like to socialise with friends at weekends, and I also visit family around twice a month at the weekends.

I try to save at least €250 per month into a rainy-day fund, because if I were unemployed tomorrow, I would need it. I have €10,000 saved so far, which I am very proud of. I’m clearing some big annual bills (car insurance, car tax, home insurance, TV licence) at the moment, and I’m also saving for a holiday.

Occupation: Administration

Monthly pay (net): €2,500

Transport: €70 (this is how much petrol I usually put in my car)

Household bills: €250

7.00am: I get up and have a shower.

8.30am: Leave for work. I am sitting at my desk for 8.40am. I am so blessed to have a really short commute.

10.00am: I haven’t eaten yet, so I head out to the shop and get some sausage rolls. (€2.00)

2.00pm: After a long team meeting, I am starving. I haven’t brought lunch,........

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