If you calculate your expenses at least once, you will be surprised! Impressive amounts of money are spent on all sorts of unnecessary little things. For example, for a purchase:
- sweets;
- goods with a high margin (coffee in a restaurant, hamburgers);
- not very necessary things, which are subject to big discounts;
- goods similar to those that you already have (the same name, but in a different color, with a different smell, etc.);
- products that you do not need urgently (often they will not be useful in the future);
- cute trinkets.
If you make a family budget and strictly follow it, you can quickly reach your goals. But first you need to decide on them. Why do you need this? Do you want to save money for a significant purchase? Is it painful for you to realize that you earn a lot, but can’t afford anything? Do you dream of learning to save? Or are you motivated by another motive? It is extremely important to determine. No need to plan just because so many do. It will not lead to anything.
How to calculate the family budget?
There are lots of programs for planning. But they are not suitable for many because of their stereotyped nature. The best option is to keep records in the form of an Excel spreadsheet. Write down all sources of income in one column and expenses in another.
Some people prefer to use special programs for mobile phones that help keep the family budget. This is very convenient because immediately after the purchase, you can record the amount spent.
Based on the data of the first month, you can draw certain conclusions. How much money did you spend rationally? What expenses could you avoid? Based on these findings, you will be able to plan further actions.
How to make a family budget?
The first rule of wealthy people: put off a percentage of income. Gold standard - 10%. Whenever possible it is better to put aside more. Your family’s quality of life will hardly change because of this small amount. However, over time you will be able to accumulate a fairly large amount of money. In no case should these 10% be spent. The best option is to put them somewhere. Let them bring you interest.
If you have debts or loans, consider a scheme for repaying them. They must be disposed of as soon as possible. Determine how much you can allocate each month to cover debts.
If you want to save money for a significant purchase, pay the amount to the family budget that you plan to save monthly. Next, consider the important costs that you can’t refuse and whose monthly cost does not change (or changes slightly). This includes car insurance, utilities, the cost of tickets, training, etc.
Now consider other important expenses - food, clothing, gifts, leisure, etc.
If the "debit with credit" stubbornly does not converge, there are two options. The first is to reduce costs, the second is to increase revenues. Moreover, the first option is relevant in any case. Many people who have just started maintaining a family budget note that by refusing sweets, snacks, and promotional items, they were able to save a lot of money and pay back a loan faster.
But do not cut costs to a minimum. In particular, you need to allow yourself a good rest. Otherwise, you will quickly abandon this idea.