We put an offer on a house which was rejected and left me feeling a bit disheartened. Then it was the summer... and then, well you know how it is. Months roll by, good intentions fall by the wayside. But it's time to give myself a kick up the bottom and regain control!
Looking at my bank statement this morning was a bit of an eye opener. I have fallen into the trap of using my credit card towards the end of the month, then paying it off in full on payday, but then having that little bit less each month to spend. Meaning the credit comes out that little bit earlier, for that little bit more.
So, it's time to get back to more conscious spending, or not spending! It will take more than a month to readjust I think, especially with Christmas around the corner.
To kickstart, here are 5 things I'm doing today.
1. Write it all down. Looking at all regular income and outgoings is important to understanding how much is left over. I've started working more hours, so I have this sense that I've got plenty of disposable income. But in reality, outgoings have gone up too. Comparing this month with, say 2 years ago, I've actually less left over after the bills have been paid.
2. Review all my regular payments. Do I want to continue with that gym membership? Should I adjust the amount going into kids savings? There's probably something I can cancel, or at least reduce.
3. Look for better deals. I know that my energy tariff ran out this month so I'm back on the standard rate. I haven't reviewed my broadband since the cheap introductory offer ran out.
4. Check the fridge. Throwing away food equates to throwing away money. I want to make sure that anything which is nearing its use by date gets cooked in time. If veg is getting a bit ropey, I'll make some soup.
5. Have some free fun! Rather than spend money on half term activities, we'll get out, and get muddy I think.
All other ideas welcome! What are your best ways to avoid spending? What can we all do to help our money go a little further?
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