Money for your wants.
You can still buy whatever you want on a budget, it just might not be exactly when you want it. (They say patience is a virtue.)
Money for emergencies.
Car wreck. Fried laptop. No problem. Your budget has you covered.
Pleasant Nights Rest.
When you budget you are in control of your money, so you don't have to lose sleep over it.
Prepare for change
A budget could mean a change in lifestyle but don't worry, it's one you can afford. ;)
Narrow your focus.
A budget can help you meet your financial goals when you focus on a specific reason to budget like, paying off your credit card or saving enough for a down payment on a home.
Track Your Money
You can easily see where your money is going if you check your balance online. If you find you are spending more than anticipated, identify the items you really don't need.
I think every young couple (person) should read Dave Ramsey: Total Money Makeover. My husband and I have already paid off half of our debt (with the exception of our house) and we have been on our budget for 7 months. We will be debt free according to our plan next October. We also listen to Dave Ramsey's radio show to stay motivated.
vilsephya
Posted 3:26 pm o
11/10/2009
i have the hardest time saving money- which is why i can't seem to budget- any advice anyone?! i need some help!
CLAY
Posted 10:51 am o
09/02/2009
So, a budget...well, the important thing is to have one, but if you don't have one yet that is ok, start one. A budget is something that you will never regret starting...provided of course that it is a realistic budget. Also, most budgets need to be flexible and adjust according to you current needs and situations.
If you see something you want, keep your eye on the prize. When you go to buy other stuff, think about that prize that you want to buy. this can help you save until you can afford to pay for that prize in cash. Seperate the needs from the wants.
I have a created an online budget tool that allows you to use virtual envelopes to basically make a plan for where you want to spend or save your money before you actually spend it. It works great with my America First accounts (personal & business). Check it out: http://inzolo.com
how many times do we get online in a day and check our email, facebook, youtube, twitter or other websites? yet how often do you get online to check your account or finances? I now have to check my account daily and I think it's a good habit to get into
mitchum8
Posted 11:53 am o
07/16/2009
One thing that helped me with my budget was: http://www.personalfinancesoftwarereviews.com. It has great reviews on different way to make and keep a budget.
I agree with ReveckaJo as well. That is what my husband and I do. We dont own any credit cards. We just keep our debts to a minimum and the rest is savings.
Having a budget is the best thing for my Wife and I. We were living life vicariously and now, with her at home taking care of the baby, we only have one income and we really needed to budget. It’s hard to keep a budget but at least we aren't over spending. It amazing how much money can be wasted on frivolous things.
cnrass
Posted 2:15 pm o
04/25/2009
thomas makes a good point. Many credit cards are willing to PAY YOU to use them. Just be sure to make sure that you pay off the FULL balance every month