Calculators and Peanuts: A Budget Game

Is it just me or living expenses of today seem to be going on a racing game? For some people, the month’s salary is spent even before it is paid; money is borrowed to save the day; salary comes in later to pay the previous month’s debt and the cycle continues... but for how long? How much longer before things get comfortable enough to start saving for the fast-approaching future? The name of the game is budgeting – the art of tactically apportioning your money (sometimes peanuts) for various needs.

For a very long time, financial experts and advisors have been shouting this mantra from the mountaintops. And you are probably sick and tired of hearing it over and over again, but budgeting is just one of those topics that cannot be emphasized enough. After working hard for your money, the last thing you want is to lose it to the wind without maximizing value for your sweat.

In this article, I will share a few reasons why you should start budgeting now.

Reason #1: It helps you focus on your core objectives.

Month on month, a lot of people earnestly wait for “payday” because they are usually at zero balance by the end of the third week. Even more painful is the fact that they are unable to point out what they used the money for. A budget can help you deal with this easily because budgets help you figure out your short and long-term goals and work towards them. When you keep spending your money without planning, you will never be able to meet important long-term goals.

Reason #2: It helps to plan a happier retirement.

To enjoy your retirement on your own terms, you need to have achieved a certain level of financial freedom. Now we all know that financial freedom doesn’t come by simply wishing it. Instead, it involves conscious money management efforts such as budgeting. Although you may have to sacrifice a little now, it will be well worth it down the road when you get to enjoy the retirement you have always dreamt of.

Reason #3: It sheds light on bad spending habits.

Building a budget forces you to take a close look at your spending habits. You may notice that you're spending money on things you don't need. Knowing what you know, you are better able to spend on the right things.

Reason #4: It helps to sleep better at night.

Following a budget will help you keep your finances in order so you sleep better at night. How many nights have you tossed and turned worrying about how you were going to pay the bills and debt? People who lose sleep over financial issues are allowing their money to control them. Take back the control. When you budget your money wisely, you'll never lose sleep over financial issues again.

There are countless other advantages to following a budget. So get yourself a calculator and let’s draw up a budget now. Download this budget and let’s get to it already. When you have tried, tested and enjoyed the magic behind budgets, share with us and share with others. Fidelity Bank will love to tell your story one day.