There are not many words that can cause as much dread as that dirty little six letter word “budget”. The very sound of it can bring about thoughts of tightening the belt, going without and heated money conversations around the dinner table.
But despite its bad reputation, to balance mortgages, car loans, school fees and rising living expenses, a budget is a necessity to ensure your bills are paid, debts are minimised, and savings are maximised.
Now don’t panic, this is not a post about spreadsheets (although they do work well for many) and we’re not about to call you in for a money intervention. Instead, we’re going to look at ideas to help you budget your money when you’re not the budgeting kind.
When we look at the purpose of a budget, it is to help you manage your money smartly and to make sure that you are living within your means. It also helps you to put money away for those important life events – buying a home or renovating, purchasing a car, going on holiday, investing or just making a purchase you really desire. All the benefits you want, right?