Tried putting together a budget for the first time this week and it’s left me feeling a bit flummoxed. Anyone else found it harder than they expected or is it just me? I’ve always been a bit of a spendthrift, you know, the kinda person who buys a coffee every morning instead of brewing at home. So I thought I’ll get my act together, start adulting properly and plan my finances (new year resolution and all that).

But oh boy, trying to figure out where to start has been a headache. How do you sort through your expenses and prioritize? I’ve looked at some apps and tools online but they feel so impersonal, like they don’t really understand where I’m coming from or what my needs are.

And it’s not just about cutting costs wherever I can, I want to also save for things that matter to me - like a trip overseas once this COVID situation settles down. Maybe a trip to Japan, sipping tea by the cherry blossoms - a guy can dream, right?

Anytips on how to decide what’s a “want” and what’s a “need”? Fuels for the car is a “need”, for sure. How about a Netflix subscription though, is that a “want”? See, it’s these kind of things.

Anyway, would love to hear how you folks went about setting up your personal budgets and any tips or lessons you learned 🤔

Oh man, I feel you. I was also overwhelmed in the beginning. But what really helped was putting everything down on paper first. Like, every single thing I spent money on. And then started to categorize things in ‘needs’, ‘wants’ and ‘luxuries’. Netflix for me, was a ‘want’. I mean, it’s not necessary, but it helps me unwind and that matters too. Your own categories could be different. Don’t be too harsh on yourself. It’s okay to adjust as you go. As for saving for the Japan trip, having a saving goal really helps. Best of luck, buddy! You’ve got this. 💪

Yeah, building a budget can be a real headache at the start, but sounds like you found a method that works for you! Good on ya for understanding that you don’t have to be super strict or stress over it. Life’s got enough to worry about, eh? And about Netflix, totally agree! There’s nothing like a good binge session to relax. Keep up the good work, and wishing you all the best with your Japan savings goal! Konichiwa, here you come! 💪🚀

Budgeting is a fickle beast, my friend. Sounds like you’re taking it in stride and figuring out what works for you - massive kudos for that. I remember when I started budgeting, felt like I was trying to do calculus in a tornado. The tip that helped me most was to try and see it as more of a fluid roadmap rather than rigid rules. Also, on the Netflix front, couldn’t agree more! Nothing like letting Schitt’s Creek or The Crown take you to a whole other world while you let go of budget woes. Rooting for your Japan goal! Keep at it, pal! 🍣🇯🇵🗾

Totally get where you’re coming from, mate. I felt the same wires in my brain melting when I first got into it. The thing to remember is that budgets are more of a guideline than law. Feeling guilty for a pizza on a Wednesday? Nah, you’ve got this. Just shuffle some figures around for the next week, or cut down on the takeaway coffee. You’ll get used to it, promise.

And on Netflix, don’t get me started! Watched the last season of Stranger Things this week, surreal, man! Here’s to reaching your Japan goal - you got this! 🍣🌸🗼