Anyone Else Shocked When They First Saw Their Spending?

Expense Management Forum
1

I was watching Prince$$ with Gail Vaz-Oxlade and realized that a lot of people on the show, like me, don’t really know how much they spend. So, this month, I sat down and tallied all my bills… and wow. I’m not in debt, but I do need to save and start planning better for the future.

I work for a school district, and I don’t get paid over the summer, so I have to plan for that. Luckily, I have a side hustle that brings in about $800 a month, which I thought was less. It made me feel better when I did the math! Keeping track of my spending is giving me a sense of control. Anyone else had this realization?

2

Yeah, tracking your money is a game-changer! It’s so important to know where your money is going.

3

Marlon said:
Yeah, tracking your money is a game-changer! It’s so important to know where your money is going.

At first it was disappointing, but now it’s kind of like a game. I’m seeing how much I can cut back, especially on things like Amazon or fast food. Feels great knowing I’ll have money for savings every month.

4

Same here! I used to stash away about $1k a month, but casual spending on Amazon and Target really got in the way. Last weekend, I had my ‘oopsie’ moment with budgeting too :grimacing:.

5

Marlow said:
Same here! I used to stash away about $1k a month, but casual spending on Amazon and Target really got in the way. Last weekend, I had my ‘oopsie’ moment with budgeting too :grimacing:.

I totally relate! I only went out for fast food once this month and was shocked at how expensive it was. It’s a real eye-opener when you track everything.

6

I always prioritize saving/investing first. What’s left is what I allow myself to spend. I’ve never paid credit card interest. It’s sad how normalized debt has become.

7

Drew said:
I always prioritize saving/investing first. What’s left is what I allow myself to spend. I’ve never paid credit card interest. It’s sad how normalized debt has become.

That’s great, but not everyone has the luxury to save much. I’m working towards it, but sometimes it’s hard to even think about retirement.

8

It’s called getting ‘financially naked’… Eeek!

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Avani said:
It’s called getting ‘financially naked’… Eeek!

Right! It’s a shock when you realize how much you’re really spending. But once you know, you can start making improvements. You got this!

10

Oh yes, I’m three months into tracking EVERY penny. Mind blown! Wish I started earlier. Kids, start saving/investing NOW. You’ll thank yourself later.

11

Parker said:
Oh yes, I’m three months into tracking EVERY penny. Mind blown! Wish I started earlier. Kids, start saving/investing NOW. You’ll thank yourself later.

Same! My parents never taught me about saving, but I’m making sure my kid is set for the future.