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We have this whole sophisticated envelope system where, each payday, we stuff envelopes labeled "groceries," "gas," "haircuts," "clothing," etc. When we use all the money in the envelope, we don't spend any more in that category until the next pay period. Honestly, the first six months were the hardest, both psychologically and logistically, what with trying to figure out how much we really needed in each category.
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My mother uses this exact system. She's been doing it for years. I was always confused by WHY she did it when I was little. She's on such a limited income, she HAS to see her cash in front of her before she goes and splurges on those used hiking boots for $30.
I tried this system when I was living on my own, and I can tell you I had one HELL of a time doing it. I could never properly anticipate each bill, I would need to take from one envelope to pay for another bill (heat was so outrageously expensive), and my deadbeat roomate never had HER share of the money, so I had to often pay HER way just to make rent in time.
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Doing this, we have paid off ALL of our credit cards and a huge chunk of our other debts (way more than we would have paid off before going to this system). It's been really tough, but it's the best thing we ever did. Now, when I need to go to the dentist or whatever, I just go to the safe and pull out my little envelope labeled "dentist," which I have been putting money into every pay period for however many months, and off I go.
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How did you decide to divide everything up? I mean, it took you only 6 months to know how much you needed?
Do you own credit card accounts? Do you use plastic at all? I am just curious if I should try it all again. I know I could save a LOT more money - I don't have a very expensive lifestyle. I just buy a bunch of BULLSHIT like yarn, cat toys, and uncessary clothing. (Also shoes and bags god i am so dumb)
Jam it back in, in the dark.
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I poked it and it made a sad sound