My partner and I cover our own expenses such as car and phones. She is the primary earner and has been requesting assistance with rent and daycare, which are our shared and most costly expenses. I handle utilities (thankfully, water is free), streaming services, and groceries most of the time.
I admit I struggle with money management and budgeting. While I grasp the basics—income minus expenses equals savings—I sometimes make impulsive decisions, like opting to dine out instead of cooking, or buying new books instead of reading what I already own.
Given my starting salary of $20 per hour in my field, I acknowledge I could contribute more towards rent and daycare, but currently, I’m unable to do so. I’m seeking advice on reducing expenses and improving my budgeting skills to curb unnecessary spending.