Budgeting shouldn’t be about cutting out joy; what it should be about is making sure every dollar spent brings you closer to the things that are really important.
It’s easy to get caught up in the habit of daily lunches or that ‘one little treat’ that has become just a little too frequent, but that’s where budgeting with a purpose can make a world of difference.
This strategy is about focusing your money on what truly aligns with your personal values. Are you passionate about fitness? Maybe those monthly yoga classes are non-negotiable. Do you cherish time with family? Maybe ‘Family Taco Tuesday’ is a regular feature of the budget. It’s all about aligning your spending with what makes you feel truly fulfilled.
Why Budgeting?
Budgeting helps you build knowledge of where your money is going towards things that genuinely add value to your life. Whether it's saving for a big adventure, investing in your future, or treating yourself to the occasional luxury, knowing your limits helps you do more of what you love without guilt or worry that you’re missing something.
And yes, you can absolutely have those treats you value—just within the boundaries you set. Think of your budget as a tool to ensure that when you do indulge, it’s something you’ll savour guilt-free because you’ve made space for it.
By being mindful of your spending and keeping it aligned with your values, you’re not just spending less—you’re living within your means while not being afraid to spend on the important things.
So, how do we actually do it?
Step number one is to run through a budgeting tool. That is – working out what you regularly spend. You could write your budget on a napkin or maybe you’d prefer to use a nifty tool like Sorted’s Budget Planner.
