How to Stick to Your Budget

Writing up a budget is one thing, but sticking to it is quite another! This article will give you some important pointers and tips to keep yourself within your budget and achieve financial success.

Things You'll Need

• spreadsheet - if not on Excel, use an actual page

Instructions

1. Set up your spreadsheet with different categories of spending. It should include rent/mortgage, all your different utilities, car payment, gas for the car, groceries, eating out, entertainment, clothes, items for the house, and so on.

2. Keep a small notebook with you at all times. Every time you spend money on anything, no matter how small, make a note. This includes a soda from the vending machine, a newspaper in the morning, or a drive-through lunch.

3. At the end of every single day, take your notebook and fill in your spreadsheet with your spending. Do the same when you pay bills - enter your spending into the spreadsheet.

4. At the end of the month, total up your spending and then compare it to your budget. Think about where you might make changes - bringing soda to work rather than buying from the vending machine, eating out less, spending less on clothes, etc.

5. Continue to do this every single day and every single month. Remember to add things you purchase with a debit or credit card as well. Compare your numbers over the months to see how you've done.

Tips & Warnings

• Your spreadsheet might grow and evolve over time as you see how you're spending your money. Don't be afraid to make new categories or to combine old ones.

• This spreadsheet will only work if you keep track of everything you spend, including all the small stuff! You might be surprised at how much you spend on toys for the kids, drive-through meals, and things like these.