It’s December, which can only mean one thing – Christmas and the new year are just around the corner.
And with 2012 on the horizon, it’s the perfect opportunity for you to start planning ahead and thinking about New Year’s Resolutions. I don’t know about you, but I’ve found it quick tricky to budget this year. I’ve splashed out too much, particularly in the run up to Christmas, and now I’ll be starting the new year with far less money than I was hoping to.
My aim is to start budgeting, every month, so that my bank balance ends the month at zero, rather than below that level!
It’s a great idea to have a budget in mind, especially when you go food shopping, as that’s the time when you tend to get a bit overexcited about everything on offer. When you’re walking down the aisles, it’s best to have a shopping list to hand, so you stay on track and don’t let your mind wander off in all sorts of directions!
If you’ve got a list in front of you, not only will it mean you don’t forget the crucial Fairy Liquid you’re desperate for, but it will also mean you don’t pick up the chocolate bar that isn’t really necessary. It works a treat for me – I sit down the evening before I’m heading shopping, noting down what we’ve got in the fridge and cupboards already, so I don’t end up with double of everything.
I also find it’s far easier to plan the quick meals I’ll be cooking during the week, as I know exactly what ingredients I’m after and I don’t have to worry about forgetting anything.
Even if you’re not usually a fan of New Year’s Resolutions, why not give them a go next year? You’re bound to see the impact on your bank balance if you do, which is an incentive in itself!