tracking finances

Why it Pays to Track Your Spending

You may have read here once or twice how important it is to create and maintain a budget. In fact, budgeting your money is one of the most important steps you can take toward achieving financial stability.   But any attempt you make to set a budget will be a waste of time unless you go into it with a realistic picture of your spending habits. You simply can’t...

Three Creative Budget Ideas: Waterfalls, Envelopes, and Nicknamed Checking Accounts

Budgeting isn’t for everyone.  Yes, you read that right.  But let me explain.  What I really mean is, the standard budget – as in, the fussy, spreadsheet-style, track-every-penny type of budget – doesn’t work for everyone.  Fortunately, there are several budget options out there, and I try to make a point to keep up with the latest money-management and debt-repayment strategies.  Whether your money management plan is focused on...