### 1. **Know Your Numbers** * **Track your income and expenses.** Write down everything you spend for at least one month. This gives you a clear picture of where your money is going. * Use a free budgeting app like **Spendee**, **YNAB**, or even a simple spreadsheet. --- ### 2. **Create a Budget Plan** Split your salary as soon as you receive it: * **50% Needs**: Rent, bills, groceries, transport * **30% Wants**: Eating out, entertainment, shopping * **20% Savings/Debt**: Emergency fund, long-term savings, paying off debt You can tweak these percentages depending on your reality. --- ### 3. **Pay Yourself First** * Set aside a fixed **saving amount immediately** after payday—before paying anything else. * Even if it’s just **5-10%** of your salary, treat savings like a non-negotiable bill. --- ### 4. **Use Cash or a Prepaid Card for Discretionary Spending** * Withdraw a weekly allowance for non-essential items (e.g., restaurants, snacks). * When it’s gone, it’s gone. This helps limit impulse spending. --- ### 5. **Break the Month into Weeks** * Divide your budget into **weekly portions**. It’s easier to stay on track when you focus on just 7 days at a time. --- ### 6. **Meal Plan and Grocery Shop Wisely** * Plan meals in advance and shop with a list. * Avoid buying snacks, drinks, or convenience foods regularly—these add up fast. --- ### 7. **Cut or Reduce Recurring Expenses** * Cancel or pause subscriptions you don’t use much (Netflix, Spotify, etc.). * Review phone/internet plans—are there cheaper options? --- ### 8. **Delay Gratification** * When you want to buy something, **wait 48 hours**. Often, the desire fades. * Ask yourself: “Do I need this, or just want it?” --- ### 9. **Use Envelope or Category Budgeting** * Physically or digitally separate money into “envelopes” (e.g., rent, food, transport). * Only spend what’s in the category—don’t borrow from others. --- ### 10. **Track Progress Weekly** * At the end of each week, review: * What did I spend too much on? * What worked well? * Can I save a little more next week? I'm practicing some of them, but I assure you it's been a very difficult task for me :)