Live Your Budget

The idea of living on a budget may sound depressing, but it's not as bad as you'd think. More importantly, approach it like you don't have a choice. You may not like it. You just have to do it. Eventually you'll get used to it. Whatever your budget is, live it. Don't exceed it. It's not that having money is the way to go. Just as long as you live within your means, you'll be fine. Don't over stress yourself by spending more than you can afford. You can start by eliminating or reducing unnecessary expenses such as entertainment. How often do you go to the movies, eat out, go clubbing, drinking, etc.? Try limiting your movie outings to twice a month and only go when they're having a matinee. You can also always wait until those movies hit the cheap theater or make it a Blockbuster night. What I like doing is inviting a bunch of my friends over and asking them to bring a couple movies over and enjoying my time that way. Most of us have a bunch of movies at home anyways. I highly suggest staying in to eat more often. But when you do go out to eat, try going during the daytime. You can also have a snack or a salad at home to fill your stomach before going out. If money's really tight, ask to split something with a friend. If you go clubbing enough, you should have enough connections to get by without paying. If not, find them or don't go out as much. Instead of going out for drinks, you can make them at home for a lot cheaper. If you do decide to go out, steer clear of mixed drinks and any of the pricier stuff. Or just get a pitcher of a mixed drink and share it with everyone.