My $3.80 AdSense Journey: Becoming a "Frugal Beast" to Survive LA Inflation

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 It’s been about a week since I restarted my blog with an AdSense balance of exactly $3.80. Of course, nothing has changed in such a short time. However, I’ve set my first major goal: reaching $100. To get there, my first priority is absolute frugality. With the cost of living in Los Angeles skyrocketing, I am fully committed to one thing—not spending money.

Today, I made a DIY natural cleaner from orange peels that I found online. I usually keep plenty of frozen peels in the freezer for my foot baths, so it was incredibly easy to start. All I had to do was chop the peels into small pieces and boil them for about 20 minutes.

When you don’t have money, the golden rule is simple: Don't spend it. I’m going to stick to this "Frugal Beast" mindset until I hit that $100 mark.

Why DIY? The Reality of Living in LA To be honest, the inflation in Los Angeles is becoming unbearable. For example, a bottle of eco-friendly, natural cleaner at a local grocery store can easily cost $8 to $12. When you add tax, it’s a significant expense. By switching to this "Orange Peel Hack," I’m saving enough money to cover the cost of two gallons of gas—which is currently hovering around $4.85 per gallon at my local station.

How to Use the Orange Cleaner This homemade solution is perfect for cutting through grease on the stove or cleaning windows without leaving streaks. Plus, the fresh citrus scent helps me stay calm and focused. For someone like me, who has dealt with panic disorder, creating a soothing home environment is not just about saving money—it's about mental survival.

My Commitment Starting from $3.80 feels like standing at the foot of a massive mountain. But every cent I don't spend is a cent earned toward my $100 goal. LA might be expensive, but I’m going to be smarter than the inflation.



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