Habits that Are Cutting into Your Budget
We all know the feeling of scraping the depths of a bank account at the end of the month. For some of us, it may be more of a regular occurrence than we like to admit. We don’t have all the answers as to why this happens, but here are a few things that could be the culprit in your great money conundrum.
NEAR-SIGHTED BUDGETING
Too often we find ourselves thinking about what we need to pay for tomorrow and not three weeks from now. Things like rent, utilities and car payments should take priority now instead of hitting you as a surprise later. Whatever you have left over is what you have to work with for the rest of the month, which should give you a clearer picture of what you can and cannot spend.
Pro Tip: Determine what your monthly expenses are and make sure you set that amount aside before spending it on anything else.
WASTING FOOD
We often overlook the full potential of all the food we purchase. You will be surprised how far you can stretch a simple meal when you make the conscious effort to not throw any of it away.
Pro Tip: When you shop, start thinking about how many meals you can get out of each item you buy.
MISSING OPPORTUNITIES
When it comes to finding a good deal, many times we don’t take advantage of the offers on the table. It may seem crazy, but the return on investment goes up when you strike while the deals are hot.
Pro Tip: Next time frozen pizzas are two for one at your local grocery store, buy six.
EATING OUT TOO MUCH
This is the Achilles heel for most working people. Lunch with co-workers can be fun, but this kind of lifestyle adds up.
Pro Tip: Pack your lunch as frequently as possible, and you will be shocked to see how much money you will save in as little as a week.
LACK OF BUDGETING ALTOGETHER
When you lack a financial game plan, you are sure to spend too much in a couple areas every time you receive a paycheck. You can afford to make this mistake a few times if you are on a budget because then you will at least know to adjust for the following month. However, without a plan in place, you are often throwing money away.
Pro Tip: Write out how much you can spend in each category ahead of time and stick to it.
EXPENSIVE TASTE
Many of us suffer from only wanting the best of everything. We all have our different splurges, and they definitely cost us. It may be time to adopt a less expensive diet and possibly even cancel a few streaming subscriptions.
Pro Tip: Identify two or three areas to cut back in. These small sacrifices, however painful, add up big time in the long run.
LACK OF SAVING
When you don’t save, there is nothing to fall back on for every flat tire or an unexpected doctor visit. Often times you can make ends meet, but at what cost?
Pro Tip: Start viewing savings as a necessary, regular expense, so when you face the unexpected, it won't drain your regular budget.
NOT TAKING ADVANTAGE OF EVERYTHING “FREE”
Contrary to popular belief, the world is full of free resources that can significantly lighten your everyday financial burden. It may cause us a bit more work or force us to swallow our pride, but the savings speak for themselves.
Pro Tip: Whether it be using your local library instead of buying books or borrowing a friend’s tools for a project instead of buying your own, don’t put yourself above using what is right in front of you.
PANICKING
When it seems like everything is coming down to the wire, it can be easy to freak out and make dumb financial decisions out of impulse.
Pro Tip: Take a deep breath, and try not to make rash decisions. You’ve got this.
IMPROVE YOUR BUDGET WITH RENASANT BANK
Renasant Bank is here to help you make the most of your budget. Use our Savings Goal Calculator to help you plan your budget around your savings plans. Join the Renasant Nation and check back in for more saving tips and financial insight. Switch to Renasant Bank or open an account online to get started today!