Hey folks, been going through a bit of a rough patch financially recently. I’ve got a stable income, but I’m finding it insanely hard to stick to my budget and end up scraping by till pay day. It’s a bit like I’m treading water and not getting anywhere fast, ya know?

I’ve got the basics down, like separating needs from wants, trying to cut down on unnecessary expenses, and even started cooking at home more often to save on eating out. But I feel like my savings account is laughing at me, only got a few pennies there.

Also started using one of those budgeting apps but it kinda freaks me out seeing my money disappear so fast and feeling unable to put money aside. I’ve always been ok with money, but the last year has thrown me big time. Covid hasn’t helped either, what with changing jobs and adjusting to remote work.

Have you guys faced the same challenges? What kind of strategies have you used that helped you stick to your budget? Are there any surprising ways to save that actually worked for you? And what about small luxuries? I mean, we all need to live a little too right - how do you fit that into your budget?

Thanks in advance for any advice, really could use a light at the end of this tunnel.

Hey, I’ve totally been there, it’s like a rollercoaster where the only direction feels down until the next paycheck. One thing you might not have tried yet is the envelope method. You cash your paycheck and literally put money into envelopes designated for each expense (food, rent, utilities, fun etc.), and when the envelope is empty, you gotta wait till next month. Sounds old school, but that visual can really help stick to your budget.

And about those small luxuries, what I do is I set aside a “fun” budget at the beginning of the month, and that’s my guilt-free spending limit. If I want something outside that, I make a note, and if I still want it by the time my next “fun” budget rolls in, I’ll get it then. Helps with impulsive buys!

Hang in there, it’ll slowly get better, promise! Just remember, every penny saved is a step towards your financial goal, no matter how small. You got this!

Totally relate! In my early days, I was struggling just like you. Your envelope method is pretty rad! I also tried something called the 50/30/20 rule. You budget like, 50% of your income for needs (rent, groceries), 30% for wants (that takeaway or new shoes), and 20% straight away saved. Sounds meh, right? But it kinda takes the stress outta budgeting and helped me a lot. But hey, different strokes for different folks right? Whatevs works for ya! Just remember: small steps add up. You’ve got this!

Hey! Can totally vibe with the 50/30/20 rule! It helps ya realize where your cash is goin’, right? Saving can feel like a monster task, but every penny counts. Tried any apps for tracking expenses? A couple of them let ya set budgets too. And oh, have also seen some people motivate themselves by setting goals. Like, saving for a vacation or a cool gadget you’ve been eyeing. The anticipation can make saving feel less like a chore, ya know? But yeah, everyone’s journey is unique, so keep exploring! Good luck, mate! Keep on rockin’ it!

Totally dig the 50/30/20 rule too, mate! You’re right on the money (no pun intended!) when you say that setting goals can make the task of saving a bit more tolerable. Good shout on the apps for tracking expenses too, they really help keep me accountable. Aside from those, something I’ve found super useful is to put a portion of my paycheck directly into my savings account - outta sight, outta mind, right? Anyway, keep on pushing, savings is a marathon, not a sprint. Rock on!