A Spreadsheet and the Paradox of Choice

The Paradox of Choice - owning the stars article moving location spreadsheet

Last year, I wrote about my plans to move away from the Washington, DC area. At the time, I was applying for jobs and was considering cities where I’d be willing to look for positions. Then, early this year, I decided to work for myself instead (eventually). And that completely changes the game–it means I can literally live anywhere (don’t worry; I’ll get to the spreadsheet).

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Financial Flexibility for What’s Important

Financial Flexibility for What's Important

I have a confession: I’m dropping $2,500 on a completely elective purchase in October. And on two weekend trips that were planned pretty last-minute. And I have no regrets. Having my finances together gives me the flexibility to address what’s important in my life. Financial flexibility isn’t necessarily frugal, but it does mean my money is going to things I value.

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Domestic Geoarbitrage and Job Searching

domestic geoarbitrage moving job search owningthestars owning the stars blog

Y’all, let’s be real. Living in Washington, DC or right across the border in Virginia or Maryland, is super expensive. I don’t blink at $12 cocktails and $1650 rent. And it gets really old when you’re trying to be frugal, or plan for financial goals like owning a house or starting a family. I’ve written before about needing a professional change, and about realizing that I no longer like living here and need to move. But what I didn’t realize was how freeing those decisions would be. Searching for a new job when I know I’m going to relocate anyway opens up some fantastic opportunities for domestic geoarbitrage. Continue reading “Domestic Geoarbitrage and Job Searching”