Spending Too Much?

Sticking To A Budget

If you are spending too much money or making poor purchasing decisions in your personal or professional life, it may help to devise a budget. This detailed plan of future receipts and expenditures can show how much money you will make and how that money should be spent, which can help assure that your money is being spent correctly – especially if you are saving up for a home deposit.

When developing a budget for your personal or business finances, first determine how you presently spend your money. Then evaluate your spending and set goals, taking into account your financial objectives. Most importantly, track your spending to make sure you are keeping in line with these goals.

A budget will only help if you stick to it, consider these factors to avoid future financial difficulties:

• Set realistic goals and objectives. With a realistic budget, you’ll know exactly where you stand financially. You’ll also have an accurate model to follow in future years. When projecting your income for the year, don’t include any money you aren’t certain you’ll receive, such as a year-end bonus. Add these to your budget as they are received, or put them in a savings account.
• Spend within your limits. It sounds easy, but the majority of people spend more than they earn. Recording every outgoing dollar will help highlight areas where you can cut back.
• Don’t ignore immediate budgetary needs. If you are seeking a loan, ask for the appropriate amount of money to fulfill your objectives. Requesting less money than you need may cause projects to fail due to inadequate funding and leave you further in the hole.

Meticulous budgeting takes discipline and attention to detail, but sticking to it can help you achieve your financial goals.