Get an accurate picture of your
finances
The first step here is to get an
accurate picture of your finances. That is, how much money is coming in? How
much money is going out? And what exactly is it going out for? These three
questions are very important start to working on your finances.
Build a budget and stick to it
I should scream out the ‘’Stick
to It’’ part. It is important to create a monthly budget once you have a clear
picture of your finances.
Start by listing all your
expenses. Begin with the most important (rent and other bills) and end with the
least important (categories like entertainment).
Decide how much money you’ll
spend on each category. Some expenses, like most bills, will stay the same
every month. Others may be one-time expenses, like attending a special event or
purchasing a gift. That’s why you have to customise your budget monthly.
Creating a budget is pointless if
you don’t stick to it.
Slash or remove unnecessary expenses
It can be alarming to see how
much you’re spending on categories like fast food, data subscription, clothing
etc. Ask yourself at the end of it all if it really matters. Some expenses are
obviously not a priority.
Remember, the idea is to learn
how to manage your finances better by taking everything and every penny into
account.
So, do some spring cleaning and
slash expenses wherever you see an opportunity and especially if it’s something
that doesn’t affect your life to a great extent.
Create an emergency fund
Emergency funds are an important
part of a healthy personal finance plan. In almost all cases, you shouldn’t
touch or take money out of the fund. Rather, let it sit there earning interest.
If you lose your job or an unfortunate or unexpected expense arises such as
your car breaking down or one family need or the other, this is when you should
tap into it.
Save, save and save
Start saving as much as you can
as early as you can. The first thing should be to establish a savings target
that tells you approximately how much you should and can set aside over time.
It is also important that you do not tamper with your savings.
Choose a reasonable rent payment
Housing costs are generally the
most significant part of everyone’s budget as well as a major emotional
investment. The search for the “perfect” home can easily extend your budget
beyond what’s really comfortable.
When setting a housing budget, be
sure to include all fixed costs and consider what amount you really want to
pay.
Treat yourself
One of the biggest mistakes
people make when getting their finances is becoming too strict. If we
constantly deny ourselves the things we love the most, we will eventually cave
in to the pressure and make mistakes. Add in a date night or a vacation here
and there. Reward yourself when you hit a savings goal with a night out or a
movie.
Keep building your skills
If you want to move up the ladder
and make more money in your chosen industry, you have to continuously develop
your skills.
Subscribe to blogs related to
what you do. Keep up with the latest trends and scope out the competition. Read
books, take online courses, and get relevant certifications.
You’ll keep improving as an
employee, and your boss will appreciate your initiative.
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