8. Budget

There is no alternative to budgeting.


If we want to be better off, we must have
a set determination of what expenses are
allowable. No matter if we are bringing home
$400 a month or $ 400,00 a year....a budget is
crucial. Money tends to spend itself when there
is no plan put into affect.


Yes, things happen that create need. But even
then, there has to be a rational response of
cautious preparation before we just hand over
money.


In considering a budget, absolutely every expense
needs to be put out on the table;
* Gas, food, electric, and all the regulars.
* Quarterly and bi-annual bills
* Expenses for things we anticipate down the road
(school costs, trip extras, special events)
* Regular needs (oil changes, haircuts, etc)
* 'Unexpected' costs like car and appliance repair


Then, you have to prioritize. Not everybody who
tries out for the team makes it; it's just reality. Some
stuff falls to the side of the road.


This is where the maturity and discipline come in.
You can't be buying dinner out if you're behind on the
light bill. You can't rent movies and pay for cable if
the car's about to be repossessed.


Once hard decisions are made about who can--and can't--
be paid, the real work comes in. Handling and controlling
the money once it is 'available.'


Some people cannot have cash in their hands, or it
will be gone. It's too easy to just blow it on the first
several things that come along.


If we aren't responsible enough to refrain from spending
wildly, we can have a plan for bill paying.

Get help if need be. Develop new habits for how we handle
the money--or credit cards.


But make a plan, and stick to it. Consistency is the key.
And remember, that every good thing on this earth
requires sacrifice.