While we are waiting…
January 31st, 2008 | by rachel |
As January comes to a close, there is still no definite word about if or when the proposed tax rebate checks might be on the way to mailboxes and bank accounts across the country. While we are waiting, it would make sense to focus our time and attention on something that we can actually control. Specifically, this is a great time to think about creating and using a budget. After all, February is a short month so the money doesn’t have to stretch QUITE as far as usual!
There are any number of reasons why people cringe at the idea of a budget. For some, it’s too limiting. For others, it’s too complicated. Still others just don’t want to take the time to bother! Instead of focusing on what you see as the negative aspects of a budget, pay attention to some of the benefits. Here are just a few:
- Budgets are a true reflection of your overall financial situation
- Budgets define your financial priorities
- Budgets are equalizers when multiple people are involved in making and spending money
- Budgets strengthen family relationships
- Budgets move you toward specific financial goals
With proper attention, a household budget will prove to be an invaluable tool toward your goal of financial fitness. As you read this, you either
1) don’t have and have never had a written budget,
2) have tried using written budgets but have given up, or
3) you have a written budget but it doesn’t work and it ADDS to your financial stress instead of takes away from it.
While we are waiting to see what, if any, money comes to the mailbox, let’s commit to creating budgets that will work so we’ll know the best way to use our tax rebates when they arrive!
P.S. Stay tuned to My Money Thinks for lots of budgeting information, tools and “how-tos” during February!