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.