Now that we are 3 weeks into the new year, I'm sure if you made a resolution to do better with your money, your enthusiasm is starting to wain. Have no fear! I'm here for a mid-month pep talk. First of all, remember a couple of things. Change doesn't happen overnight and it's the little things that add up to be big. Start by taking baby steps. You can get anywhere by taking baby steps, right? So here's a few steps you can follow if you're new to the game.
1~ Lay out your entire budget- Income vs. Expenses. Let it all hang out, flab and all. This won't be pretty but you need to know what you spend on everything from debt payments to gas and groceries. Don't forget little things like activities for the kids, lunches, and pet supplies. Chances are you're going to feel anxious and overwhelmed by this, especially if what goes out is more than what comes in.
2~ Cut it in half. If doing an entire month is too much, start with a pay period instead. This is a great way to break things off into bite sized pieces. This is what I do and it's become super easy.
3~ Remember your four walls ALWAYS come first. Read here for more about that. These big pieces always go into place first so you don't have to worry about what you're going to eat, or if the electricity is going to be shut off.
4~ Choose one area that you want to change right now. Maybe you'll start using cash for everyday expenses instead of credit or debit cards. Maybe it's cutting back on dining out. Maybe you need to shop around for insurance because it's been a while since you've looked. Maybe it's even as simple as menu planning to save on your impulse grocery spending. Regardless, find something that you can start today. Once you've mastered that one thing, choose another.
5~ Remember to take one day at a time. There's nothing more discouraging than feeling like you're stuck. Taking baby steps one day at a time helps. Life is never perfect and neither is budgeting. But if you keep at it, you will achieve your goals.
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