Financial Discipline Creates Freedom

 Stardate 11.04.2026

There are days when a few thoughtful decisions create opportunities that extend well into the future. Yesterday was one of those days.

My current work assignment has given me an opportunity to adjust my schedule for the remainder of the week. Originally, I requested vacation days for Friday and Saturday to accommodate a trip to San Diego. Sunday was already a scheduled day off.

After reviewing the schedule, I found a way to give back my vacation days for Wednesday and Thursday while keeping my original plans for San Diego. The leadership team at my temporary location is happy to have me available for two additional shifts. I'm happy because I can make the trip using only one vacation day.

Everybody wins.

This small adjustment got me thinking about something that has become increasingly important in our lives: financial discipline and the freedom it creates.

When my wife and I first moved to Iowa from Southern California, she checked out a book by Dave Ramsey from the library. We began following the Baby Steps outlined in his program. His approach gave us a framework for managing money and developing better financial habits.

We followed his recommendations during those early stages. Over time, we became comfortable with our financial discipline and eventually decided to introduce credit cards back into our lives.

This is where my approach differs from Dave's.

He strongly recommends avoiding credit cards. I understand his reasoning and respect his philosophy. I've chosen to use credit cards with a very specific rule. I pretend my credit card is a debit card.

The money must already be available. I pay the statement balance in full and never consider the available credit an extension of my income.

I also made a promise to my wife. If I ever incur interest because I overlook a payment due date, we will cut up our credit cards.

I understand the risk involved. Returning to credit card use took us outside our comfort zone. We believed we had developed the discipline necessary to manage that responsibility, and we've established a clear boundary to protect ourselves.

The rewards have opened some wonderful travel opportunities.

My Citi rewards balance has now grown to more than $1,000. That is enough to cover all expenses associated with our planned February vacation in Florida.

My plan is to request one week of unpaid Winter leave so we can enjoy two weeks in Florida. The accumulated rewards will fund the trip, keeping our vacation plans aligned with our commitment to living within our means.

There is another benefit developing during my current assignment. I'm staying at a Hilton property for 30 days and accumulating hotel reward points along the way. These points will come in handy when we're on the road with Luuucy, our vacation home on wheels, and we want to check into a hotel for a change of pace.

Looking further ahead, Stardate 05.21.2027 marks my fifteenth anniversary at my day job. That milestone brings an additional week of vacation every year. Having that extra time available will create even more opportunities for future travel.

I've had several conversations with people recently about financial discipline and the lifestyle it can help create. I've shared some of our philosophy without discussing private financial details.

Dave Ramsey has a familiar message about living like no one else today so you can live like no one else tomorrow. That message has stayed with me.

Our journey began with a library book and a willingness to follow a plan. The habits we developed continue to influence our decisions today.

Financial discipline also influences how I manage my book-writing business. I've established a budget of just $12 per month, which funds my annual Canva subscription. That subscription gives me access to the design tools and artwork I use to enhance my books.

I also have a little help along the way. Alberta assists me with Canva prompts that help elevate the quality of the artwork. My partner stipends and affiliate link income cover the Canva expense, allowing me to operate my book business at a net-zero budget.

It's another example of what thoughtful planning can accomplish. I can continue creating books, improving their presentation, and donating the proceeds from book sales to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital while keeping the operating expense covered.

There is another part of Dave Ramsey's philosophy that deserves recognition. His message extends beyond financial independence to the opportunity to give like no one else. That part resonates deeply with me.

My wife and I have always wanted our financial decisions to leave room for generosity. My book-writing journey is one expression of that commitment. Proceeds from my book sales are donated to the University of Iowa Stead Family Children's Hospital. Every book that finds a reader creates another opportunity to support children and their families.

This is where financial discipline takes on an even greater purpose. The freedom we create can reach beyond our own household and become a blessing in someone else's life.

I am grateful for the choices we've made and the opportunities still ahead. There is something satisfying about knowing that yesterday's discipline can help make tomorrow's adventures possible.

Financial Discipline Creates Freedom.

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https://substack.com/@michaelmulliganlivelong

Scripture – Luke 14:28 (NIV)

"Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won't you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?"

Captain's Addendum

Spock: "Doctor, the Captain appears to have discovered a way to turn vacation planning into a financial strategy."

Bones: "Wonderful. Maybe he can teach Starfleet how to travel without spending the entire ship's budget."

Spock: "An interesting application of logic, Doctor."

I've learned that planning for the future can be an expression of gratitude for the opportunities God has already placed in our lives. My wife and I continue to make decisions together, one step at a time. I'm looking forward to the adventures ahead, and I'm thankful for the freedom to enjoy them.

Live long and prosper!