“If you have a picture of a vacation place that you want to go to, post it on your refrigerator or somewhere where you would see that regularly,” Weber says. “You can say, ‘This is why I packed my lunch today. I’ll be in the Bahamas this time next year.’”
FUN WON’T BE A DISTANT MEMORY
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A budget where there is no room to have fun — you’re wasting your time.
When you commit to budgeting, you don’t have to kiss movies, concerts, vacations and fancy dinners goodbye. In fact, it’s crucial for you to leave room for discretionary spending. “A budget where there is no room to have fun — you’re wasting your time,” Metzger says. “Nobody wants to live that way. Nobody’s going to live that way.” Ideally, according to the 50/30/20 budget, 50% of your budget should be allocated for needs, 30% for wants and 20% for savings and debt repayment.
When you do have to cut back, it helps to change your thinking. Budgeting doesn’t always have to be confining, especially if you’re accomplishing goals like saving for a house or paying down debt. “Think of it in terms of a predetermined spending plan and not a budget restriction plan,” Weber says. Remember, you’re not perfect — and your budget doesn’t have to be perfect. Be patient with yourself, especially if you’re taking steps in the right direction. “Cut yourself some slack,” Metzger says. That being said, check in on your progress regularly to review your spending and ensure you’re following through with the budgeting goals you’ve implemented. “If you’re making positive changes and you’re making these positive incremental steps, take stock of them,” Metzger says. 4 DON’T EXPECT PERFECTION
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