How to budget - budgeting for beginners

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Are you looking at cleaning up your finances this year? We know, we know – the word alone can make your eyes glaze over, but trust us, once you get the hang of it, it’s like a warm hug for your bank account.

Whether you’re saving for a down payment on a house, paying off debt, or just want to stop living paycheck to paycheck, budgeting can help you get there. And we promise, it’s not as boring as it sounds!

Here’s some tips:

What's covered in this post

Know thy income and expenses

First things first, you gotta know what’s coming in and what’s going out each month. Write down all your sources of income (even that pesky part-time job you have on the weekends) and then list all your expenses, including bills, groceries, entertainment, and all the little things that add up (looking at you, morning coffee run).

Categorize like a boss

Once you have a list of your expenses, it’s time to play detective. Categorize your expenses into groups like housing, transportation, food, and entertainment. This will give you a clear picture of where your money is going and where you can potentially cut back (goodbye, daily lattes).

Track your spending like a hawk

To get a real understanding of your spending habits, track your expenses for a month. You can use a budgeting app, a spreadsheet, or just jot it down on a piece of paper. Pro tip: carry a small notebook with you so you don’t forget.

Set a budget

Now that you have a good idea of your spending habits, it’s time to set a budget. Allocate a specific amount of money to each category, making sure to account for all your expenses (even that monthly Netflix subscription).

Stick to your budget like glue

The secret to successful budgeting is sticking to your budget. This means being mindful of your spending and avoiding impulse purchases (bye, bye designer handbags). It’s also important to regularly review your budget and make adjustments as needed (life happens).

Emergency fund!!

An emergency fund is a must-have for anyone who wants to be financially secure. This is money that you set aside for unexpected expenses, like a broken car or unexpected medical bills. Aim to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses (better safe than sorry).

Budgeting might seem daunting at first, but with a little effort and discipline, it can become a habit that helps you reach your financial goals. It’s not about depriving yourself of the things you love, but rather about making smart financial choices and living within your means.