I Hate Budgeting
Look, I’m gonna level with you. I hate budgeting. There, I said it. It’s not that I’m against being responsible with money. It’s just… ugh. The spreadsheets, the tracking, the constant guilt. It’s exhausting.
But here’s the thing: I’m also really bad at money. Like, really bad. I once spent $87 on avocado toast in a week. Yes, I know. It’s stupid. But it happened. And it’s not like I’m some trust fund baby. I’m a senior editor at a major publication. I should know better.
So, about three months ago, I decided to do something about it. I started reading, asking questions, and honestly, I learned a lot. And I’m gonna share some of that with you now.
Meet Marcus
Let’s call him Marcus. Marcus is my friend. He’s also bad at money. But he’s trying. We had coffee last Tuesday at this little place on 5th. He told me, “I don’t get it. I make decent money, but I’m always broke.”
I get it, Marcus. I really do. It’s not about how much you make. It’s about what you do with it. And most of us? We’re doing it wrong.
So, I gave Marcus some advice. And now I’m gonna give you some too. But first, a story.
The Time I Tried Cryptocurrency
Okay, so back in 2017, everyone was talking about Bitcoin. My colleague, let’s call her Dave, was like, “You gotta get in on this, Sarah. It’s the future.” So, I did. I invested $200. And then I forgot about it. Until last year. When I checked, it was worth, like, $400. Not bad, right?
But here’s the thing: I got lucky. Cryptocurrency is risky. Like, really risky. And it’s not for everyone. But the point is, I tried something new. I stepped out of my comfort zone. And it paid off. Literally.
Actionable Advice
Alright, enough about me. Let’s talk about you. Here are some things you can do right now to get better with money.
1. Track Your Spending
I know, I know. It’s boring. But it’s necessary. You can’t fix what you don’t understand. So, track your spending for a month. Every. Single. Penny. Use an app, a spreadsheet, a notebook. Whatever works for you.
2. Automate Your Savings
Pay yourself first. Set up an automatic transfer to your savings account every payday. Even if it’s just $20. It adds up. Trust me.
3. Invest
Yes, invest. Not in Bitcoin or some trendy stock. But in a diversified portfolio. Index funds are a great place to start. They’re low-cost, low-maintenance, and historically, they’ve performed well.
And if you’re in Bangladesh, check out BangladeshFX. They’ve got some great resources for investors.
4. Live Below Your Means
This one’s tough. But it’s so important. You don’t have to deprive yourself, but be mindful of your spending. Ask yourself: “Do I need this? Or do I just want it?”
5. Get Involved in Your Community
This might seem unrelated, but hear me out. Being part of a community can help you stay accountable. Check out Las Vegas community events neighborhood for local happenings. You might meet like-minded people who can support you on your financial journey.
A Digression: The Time I Bought a House
So, about 10 years ago, I bought a house. It was a big committment, but it was also one of the best financial decisions I’ve ever made. I didn’t know much about mortgages or property taxes or any of that. But I learned. And I made it work.
But here’s the thing: I didn’t do it alone. I had help. From friends, from family, from professionals. And that’s my point. You don’t have to figure this stuff out by yourself. Reach out. Ask for help. It’s okay.
Final Thoughts
Look, I’m not perfect. Far from it. But I’m trying. And I think you should too. Start small. Be patient. And don’t beat yourself up if you make a mistake. Because you will. We all do.
And remember, it’s not about being rich. It’s about being smart. With your money, with your time, with your life.
Now, if you’ll excuse me, I have a date with a spreadsheet. Wish me luck.
About the Author
Sarah Johnson is a senior editor with over 20 years of experience in the publishing industry. She’s written for major publications on topics ranging from personal finance to international politics. When she’s not writing, she can be found hiking, reading, or trying to convince her cat that she’s not the boss of him. (Spoiler: the cat wins.)
