Come January, I’m usually doing some serious financial juggling. Usually, Christmas and all the festivities that go with it have me broke by December month end. I know that I’m not alone.
What is it about the silly season that makes people spend beyond their means?
To add to my financial woes, both my hubby and daughter celebrate their birthdays in January. In addition, January is the month I need to pay school fees and buy new school uniforms, whilst still paying my regular bills.
But this year, things are different. For the first time in my adult life, I actually have money left over – enough to afford all my January expenses! How the hell did I do it, you may wonder.
I made a budget and actually stuck to it. Amazing really. If you read my blog regularly, you’ll remember I downloaded a nifty FREE financial app called 22seven, which has quite literally changed the way I feel and approach my money (you can read my previous two post’s here and here).
I set aside amounts for presents, entertaining and food, and even a little to spoil myself. I decided I would not go over those set budgets. And I didn’t – as difficult as it was. It’s easy to set a budget with the 22seven app. By going to ‘track’ on the ‘money month’ screen you’re able to set a budget for any of your spending categories. I like that when you’re about to go over your set amount, you can either re-set the amount, or re-think your purchase. I did a lot of re-thinking whilst shopping and boy I’m thankful I did!
I’d actually go as far as to say I’ve had a paradigm shift of sorts with regards to my finances. My previous ‘head in the sand’ attitude has changed and I’m actually enjoying getting a handle on my money – it’s a very empowering feeling. And, I can’t believe it’s taken just two short months!
The two quotes below are really resonating with me at the moment (think I need to go Google Dave Ramsey!)
I’ve now set budgets for everything from groceries to entertainment and have a saving goal for the first time in my life!
Here’s to a far more financially fit 2015 – Cheers.
You can download the FREE 22seven app here
