Things are easier said than done, or so the old adage goes, and we couldn't agree more. That's why we do The GOOD 30-Day Challenge (#30DaysofGOOD), a monthly attempt to live better. Our challenge for January? Financial fitness.
Go out with only the cash you want to spend.
Here's a bulletproof plan. I know this because I use it all the time.
- Decide what you're planning to spend money on today. Food? Drinks? Transportation? Clothes?
- Check in with your budget. Are you on track, overspending, or saving? Depending on your financial situation, take out the money you feel comfortable spending.
- Hide, store, and lock the extra cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Your wallet should feel thin and light.
It's easy to spend money when you're out with your friends. Taking out a certain quantity of money is a great way to make sure your staying within your budget. Give it a try. If the money isn't in your wallet, you're less likely to spend in.
Come back tomorrow for the next task in our financial fitness challenge.
Propose an idea here for a project or workshop that promotes financial fitness in your community. The top-voted idea will win $500 to implement the project.
Photo via (cc) Flickr user andrewrennie