4,000 columns pounded out one at a time computer keyboard

One At A Time And Then There Were 4,000

/29 Comments/in /by Mary Hunt

Today marks a milestone I didn’t think I would pass: four thousand columns, articles, posts, chapters. It’s not that I thought I would fail. It didn’t occur to me how quickly one at a time can add up to 4,000.

4,000 columns pounded out one at a time computer keyboard

It all started with a monthly newsletter, then a daily blog, a syndicated column, and more than two dozen published books. I am proud of my achievement but not too impressed. I wish I could say that at least once each day I am overcome by waves of wit and wisdom. The truth is the fear of a deadline is my best motivator. I count on intimidation to give me a jumpstart and the satisfaction that comes from writing to keep me going.

It’s the excitement that comes from knowing the written word can stir passion in my readers to be better stewards of their resources that creates a bond of trust between you and me. It’s the feeling of accomplishment I get each time I press “Send” knowing I finished another column that charges my batteries.

I suppose if this were my 4,000th birthday, you would expect some words of wisdom from me, and this is what I would say.

The most important things I’ve learned over the years:

It all adds up. One column is insignificant in the larger scheme of things. But one column consistently, routinely turns into 4,000 before you know it and quite painlessly.

Keep at it. Doing it even when you don’t feel like it builds confidence that you’ll know how to keep doing it even when you don’t feel like it.

So what advice would I offer to you?

It all adds up. Whether saving or spending, a dollar here, five bucks there may not seem like much. But repeat that activity routinely, consistently and it will turn into $4,000 before you know it.

Keep at it. Establish goals, make a plan. Read, always be working on something. Never keep all of your money and never spend it all. Let giving to others and saving for the future quiet your insatiable desires and keep your life in proper perspective. Do not focus on what you lack, instead be grateful for all that you have.

Words alone cannot adequately express my gratitude to you, for where would a columnist be without loyal and long-suffering readers? I thank you for your support and encouragement.

Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. It may feel like you are in a solitary place, but you’re not. I’m right here to encourage, prod, and nag you to get out of debt and live below your means just one step, one day at a time. Every day.

 

 

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  1. Joyce Shumate says:

    Congratulations! I have been reading your Everyday Cheapskate since 2003. My first saved email was about Venison recipes, dated 1/19/2004. I love all your money, cleaning, and recipe suggestions and have been reading them ever since. Thank You for a newsletter that has positive and useful information.

    Reply
  2. Vivian W Freppon says:

    Mary, thank you so much for your wisdom and your Christian attitude. You have made me such a “smart” person that when someone needs a good solution they call me! I always tell them “My friend Mary says………..”

    May God bless you and your family as much as you have blessed me and my family through the years.

    Reply
  3. Jan says:

    Thanks, Mary! I look forward to seeing your words of wisdom and encouragement every day – you are truly a blessing to me and many others! Merry Christmas to you and your family!

    Reply
  5. Cathy J Dressler says:

    Mary, congratulations on this milestone! I remember meeting you in Orange County many years ago through Christian Women’s Club and you had recently started Cheapskate Monthly newsletter. You have remained an inspiration throughout all these years to many people. A BIG pat on the back to YOU for staying the course and delivering a great dose of information and wisdom.

    Reply
  6. England says:

    Thank you, my fellow-gal Mary! Your profound contributions to this confounding, slippery, fomenting, do-or-die world we live in, are miraculous in how you have reached out with your creativity, good sense and determination to help us all – is simply awe inspiring! I am oh, so grateful for you every time I receive one of your newsletters! You make the world a much better place! I am so glad! Mary

    Reply
      • Sandra Catherine Wegmann says:

        Mary, my friend and I met you at the Naperville Library years ago where you were giving a talk. I have been reading you for years and passed your great advice on to my daughter, who used to be the one who had the most credit cards and most debt in the family — she is now into saving for things they want and keeping out of debt!!! Many thanks for your words of wisdom and frugal homekeeping tips and recipes, as well!

      • Mary Hunt says:

        Naperville! I remember that well. How nice to catch up with and your daughter. Give her my best, and congratulations for being such a great student! I love to know you are here with me every day!

  7. Lisa Nell says:

    Well,Mary, throughout the 4000, you’ve become a daily part of my life and I thank you for your perseverance. I even have a separate folder for emails I keep to refer to. When I tell my husband about something Mary Hunt said, he knows who I’m talking about!! Keep it up! (I wasn’t going to send anything to you, but I know everyone loves and needs encouragement!) L

    Reply
  8. Kitty T says:

    Mary, thank you so much for all you do for us! You are always encouraging and it’s wonderful to read your columns every day. I look forward to seeing each one! Thanks again, have a Merry CHRISTmas and a Happy New Year

    Reply
  9. Deb says:

    And we Thank You for all you have done! I feel as though people with a willingness to help their fellow man should hear the words we would give our brave military. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE!!

    Merry Christmas, Mary.

    Reply
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