Too often, it seems like everyone has tons of money and is happy to spend it all the time.
Unfortunately, not everyone has a lot of money, so when they start spending money, not only do they lose control of their finances, but they also feel bad about it.
It’s a perfect storm because we avoid things we feel bad about. That means that you either stop taking control of your money altogether (and still feel bad) or you swing the opposite way and start never spending money at all (and still feel bad).
We want to feel GOOD about our money- not ashamed, overwhelmed, or lost.
Here are three budget hacks that actually made me feel in control of my money — not ashamed of it:
1. I Renamed My Budget Categories
Instead of calling it “Dining Out,” I changed it to “Treat Myself.” It sounds silly, but it helped me stop guilt-spending and actually enjoy the money I set aside.
I also call my emergency fund my “Life Happens” Fund. You don’t need to call it an emergency fund. You can call it an “Inevitable Fund.” You can call it a “Life Happens” fund. You can call it the “All the Things I can’t Budget for because I Am Human” fund. The point is the same: it’s a fund for things that come up unexpectedly. The point is that the name is something that is kind to yourself and works for you.
2. I Started Using a “No-Spend Buffer”
Every paycheck, I leave $50 unassigned. That way, if something comes up (and something always does), I don’t have to dip into savings or feel like I blew my budget. It’s accepting that life and your budget aren’t perfect, and neither are you.
3. I Check My Bank Account Like I Check Instagram
Quick, daily peeks—just 15 seconds—helped me stop being scared of my balance. Total game changer. And yes, this isn’t the best example. I totally spend more time on Instagram than that but the point still stands. (Do you? You can follow me there for more budgeting help! Check it out: A Dime Saved on Instagram)
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