Every day I ask myself, why does someone who has a salary over $80K struggle so much?  I'm thankful to have a good job, a house, and a car.  We downsized by almost half in May, knowing we could not handle the summer months' electricity bills here in Texas for a larger home.  We also are saving on rent.  I took my daughter out of gymnastics.  I stopped the lawn service.  It's just my daughter and me (my husband and I are separated).  Gas costs more, groceries cost more, there are always checks to write for things at her school.  The money just trickles away....  I have no savings and I want to start next year, but  I'm afraid I won't have any money to spare, and even if I do, will my 401(k) just lose money?  When I'm looking at putting away 18% of my salary, this is a serious consideration.  I also don't have any type of emergency fund.  All credit cards are maxed out, and there are always things that crop up - new tires needed on the car, a doctor bill, a trip to the vet, you name it.