Hey folks, I’ve been hanging around the forum for a while but I’ve never really posted anything. Gotta admit, money matters have always been a weak spot for me. So, I am hoping you all could help me out a bit.

Things have been a bit tight since Covid hit last year. Somehow, I’ve been juggling bills, rent, and a little one that just hit his terrible twos. I’ve been lucky. Kept my job and all, but the paycheck doesn’t stretch as much as it used to, ya know? And I’m really starting to feel the pinch.

The whole saving money thing, not exactly my forte. Got a little nest egg tucked away but thanks to these uncertain times, it looks like it could do with fattening up.

So, I’m wondering where I should start. How to budget without feeling like I’m throwing a straitjacket on my wallet. How to save without having my kid or myself go without necessities. Plus, maybe some investments? I’ve heard a lot about these stocks and cryptocurrencies, but to be honest, it’s all Greek to me.

Appreciate any advice you can give, really could use the help. ’Venturing into the unknown here but pretty sure with the right push, I could get the hang of the personal finance thing and hopefully secure a better future for me and my little one.

And hey 🤔

The first thing that really helped me was understanding where all my money was goin’. Apps like Mint or YNAB help ya see and categorize your spending. Once you’ve got a handle on your spending, it’s easier to decide where you can cut back. Secondly, make sure you have a small emergency fund built up, at least $1000 to start. Keep that nest egg for a real emergency. As for investments, it’s definitely not a quick fix but it could be worth learning about. As my dad used to say, the best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, the second best time is now. Start slow, maybe a book or two on basic finances from the library. Good luck mate, you’re doing right by asking for help and thinking about this. Every bit counts, and every day makes a difference!

Super solid advice - Mint and YNAB were game changers for me too. They give a bird’s eye view of all charges and make it kinda fun to budget. As for the emergency fund suggestion, spot on! A few years ago, I found myself out of a job unexpectedly and that rainy day fund was a real lifesaver. About the investment part, it can seem really intimidating at first, but once you get the hang of it, it’s not as scary as it seems. I started with some apps like Stash or Acorns, they’re pretty beginner-friendly. Additionally, I consulted with a financial advisor just to be on the safer side. Keep going, you are on the right path!

Absolutely! Mint and YNAB really do make budgeting kinda fun. I was never into the whole budgeting thing until I started using these apps. It’s like they gamified my finances. And that emergency fund, never underestimate its power. I had a similar experience where it saved me too, was between jobs and literally had no income for the stretch. Scary times, man. Definitely agree on starting to invest with beginner apps. For me, I also started reading a ton about it online and watched YouTube tutorials. You can learn a lot from them. That step to consult with a financial advisor is gold. Definitely gives you comfort knowing an expert is guiding you. Yup, keep going! You’re doing great.

Hey, you’re totally spot-on with the gaming aspect of Mint and YNAB! It’s like they’ve found a secret sauce to make finance exciting. And those tutorials on YouTube can be absolute gold - I’ve found some really awesome channels that break down everything from basic budgeting to advanced investing strategies. But consulting a financial advisor honestly took me to the next level. Nothing can replace that one-on-one advice tailored specifically for you. Keep it up, you’re on the right track for sure!

Totally agree about the value of a personal financial advisor, they can work wonders with the specific intricacies of your finances. Can never underestimate the power of that personalised advice, right? Big props to you for taking control of your financial health, it’s not an easy path but it’s worth it. When you’re comfy, you might wanna look into robo-advisors for extra support – some of them offer lower fees than human advisors and hey, who says we can’t have the best of both worlds? Keep crushing it, mate!

You’ve summed this up real nice! Having that personalized touch with a financial advisor is a game-changer, no doubt about that. Lately, I’ve even found mobile budgeting apps super helpful to keep track of my spending. I reckon robo-advisors could be a good idea too, specially for investing, but ain’t nothing quite like the human touch when times get complicated, amirite?! Anyway, keep stickin’ with it mate, mastering personal finance is a marathon not a sprint. You’re doing amazing!

Totally with you on the human touch in personal finance - something about having a person to explain things in layman’s terms. Budgeting apps are a lifesaver, aren’t they? Been using one for a few months and what a difference! But yo, don’t rule out robo-advisors too quick. They might lack the personal touch but their algorithms are usually pretty sharp. Keep exploring all your options, mate! And remember, every little step towards mastering your finances is still a step forward. You’re absolutely smashing it!

Totally agree with you on robo-advisors, mate. I was skeptical at first too, but they’re super handy when it comes to investing and making your money work for you. But, yeah, nothing beats having a real person to help explain the ins and outs of finance, especially when things get really complicated. I’ve got a financial advisor and a budgeting app, best of both worlds right there! And you’re right, every little step counts. No need to rush. We’re in this for the long haul, aren’t we? Keep at it and you’ll have your finances under control before you know it!

Hey there! Totally get where you're coming from; it’s tough juggling everything, especially with a toddler. First off, try starting with a simple budget. Track your expenses for a month to see where your money goes. It might surprise you and show areas where you can cut back without feeling too restricted. Apps like Mint or YNAB can be super helpful for this.

For saving, consider setting up a small automatic transfer to your savings account each month. Even a little adds up over time. As for investments, maybe start with something low-risk like a high-yield savings account or a beginner-friendly app like Acorns, which rounds up your purchases and invests the spare change. Stocks and crypto can be intimidating, so take your time to learn before diving in. You've got this! 😊