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GoodGirlBigPockets
Dec 27, 20232 min read
What is a Personal Budget?
Updated: Feb 4
On the path to financial well-being, one crucial step is often overlooked: creating a monthly personal budget. A personal budget serves as a roadmap for managing your finances, helping you achieve your goals and navigate life's twists and turns.
What is a Personal Budget?
A budget is an essential tool for managing your finances effectively. It is a detailed plan that outlines your income, expenses, and savings for a specific period, usually a month. It allows you to take control of your money, make informed decisions and work towards financial stability.
What is a Realistic Monthly Budget?
Creating a realistic monthly budget involves finding a balance between your income and expenses. It's not about deprivation but rather about making intentional choices with your money.
The amount you should budget for your needs, wants, and savings can vary significantly depending on your personal financial situation, goals, and priorities. Here I will provide you with a general guide that you can use as a starting point. Remember that these percentages are approximate and can be adjusted based on your specific circumstances.
Here are some tips for a realistic budget:
Prioritize Needs Over Wants: Focus on fulfilling essential needs first. Once necessities are covered, allocate money for wants.
Emergency Fund: Include an emergency fund in your budget. Aim for at least three to six months' worth of living expenses to cushion for unforeseen circumstances.
Review and Adjust: Regularly review your budget to ensure it aligns with your financial goals. Adjust categories and amounts as needed.
The 50/30/20 Rule of Budgeting:
The 50/30/20 rule is a simple and effective guideline for budgeting:
50% for Needs
30% for Wants
20% for Savings and Debt Repayment
Please note that these guidelines are general and may vary depending on your financial goals. If you have significant debt, such as student loans or credit card debt, it's important to prioritize paying off those debts before spending a large portion of your income on savings or non-essential wants. It means that here you make additional payments on your debts to be able to finish them as soon as possible.