GOT YOURSELF INTO A BIT OF A PICKLE OVER THE FESTIVE SEASON? Taking steps to remain in control of your finances may be the best resolution you could make in 2018, says JESSICA DAWSON of DebtBusters
Is this how budgeting makes you feel? Turn around, dude, a budget can actually alleviate your pain…
1. PLASTIC AIN’T THAT FANTASTIC
Take your credit card, put it in an envelope, seal it and mail it far, far away. Okay, this may be slightly dramatic. But committing to not using your credit card is a very constructive step. Buying on credit makes it very easy to get further into debt, and if you can’t afford to pay what you owe on your credit card at the end of the month, the deficit will grow and you’ll end up owing more and more.
2. THE B-WORD AIN’T RUDE
If the word BUDGET makes you want to bury your head in the sand, you’re doing it wrong! A budget doesn’t exist to deprive you of the good life, but rather to enhance your lifestyle by guiding you to spend more purposefully and help you keep track of where your money’s going. Draw up a budget to include all your expenses, prioritise your most important ones and see if there are any areas where you can save. How about a movie night at home, painting your own greeting cards or hosting a dinner party and asking each guest to contribute one dish? You’ll create a fabulous vibe and save those shekels, big-time.
Don’t let your inner artist lie dormant
3. CLICHÉS EXIST FOR A REASON
For many of us, the best part of life is spending time with those we love most, and reconnecting with people we don’t manage to see as often as we’d like. This beats any exotic holiday destination, expensive gift or purchase. It’s kind of obvious but when we reflect on what really makes us happy, spending money suddenly seems a lot less important.
4. NEVER TOO LATE
If you feel you’re drowning in debt, seek help with your finances. A debt counselling company can guide you to becoming debt-free.