280. When Tracking Every Dollar Stresses You Out, Try this

Opening Bible verse: Mark 16:1-8

Does the constant tracking of money stress you out? Do you feel the resentment building when you see your spouse buying a bagel even if the money is there?

I felt the same for years. While we have to know where our money is going, at some point, we can ease up on the tracking. How do we do this?

First, you have to make sure your monthly spending is in line with recommended percentages. Fixed Costs (the bills) are about 50-60%. Your long term investments (retirement) is about 10% and your short term savings (emergency fund/sinking funds) are 5-10%. This leaves you about 20-35% for everything else (discretionary spending). For me, this is grocery money and anything else for the family. These are the only two categories I now track in my spending app. I use Everydollar app. Find the one that works for you. Twice per month I look at the bank balances and savings accounts. Otherwise, I trust that our money is going where it's supposed to go. 

Some months are more expensive than others, so you can begin to track your monthly spending in the budgeting app. It will allow you to prepare for next year. You'll be able to better predict what you'll spend and reduce as many surprises as possible. Your money should be boring, that's the goal. Set it and forget it!

Would you like 1:1 support with your spending, decluttering or running of your home? Schedule your 1:1 coaching call today

March Coaching Calendar

Oncer per month I offer a free and live zoom with a group rosary or topic such as decluttering, budgeting or meal planning. The weekly newsletter will always have the latest zoom links and helpful topics. You can sign up for the weekly newsletter here:Newsletter Sign Up

For local, in-person decluttering or for guest opportunities, please email me at: tightshipmama@gmail.com