Hello, mama!
I did a poll on my Instagram recently to see how many of my followers track their finances, more actually did than those who didn’t. But it was a close call.
September for many of us is almost like starting a new year! New routines, children starting nursery, first day of school, or baby classes are back on.
Now things are more or less back to normal, and things are opening up, many of us will be spending more than we have in the last 18 months of lockdown.
But do you visually see where your money is exactly being spent?
As we transition through parenthood, different stages require different outgoings. If you are looking to manage your expenses, here is a list of outgoings you may want to include in your money managing list
FIXED EXPENSES
- Mortgage/Rent
- Health Insurance
- Car/Home Insurance
- Petrol/Public Transport
- Council Tax
- Water/Gas/Electricity
- Internet/Phone
- TV License
VARIABLE EXPENSES
- Food
- Subscriptions (Netflix, Amazon prime, etc.)
- Holidays
- Entertainment
- Gym
- Clothing
- Health & Beauty
- Medical
- Entertainment
- Socialising
- Sports
- Gifts (birthdays, festivities, weddings, etc.)
CHILDREN
- Food (inc. Dining out, Takeaway)
- Clothing
- School Supplies
- Nursery
- Babysitter
- Extra Circular Activities
DEBT
- Credit Card
- Store Card
- Loan
Managing & Saving Ideas
REVIEW
Once you have written everything out from above, note down any non-negotiables and any expenses you feel you can remove, don’t forget to check any random direct debit setups that you have forgotten about and are of no use.
MEAL PLANNING & SHOPPING
I always feel planning out meals for the week and shopping online saves a lot of money, shop per meal, and stick to the shopping list.
SET A GOAL
If you are looking to save for something, in particular, open up a savings account for just that if the goal is a big one. Make sure the goal is realistic and manageable, you don't want to feel you can't achieve it, make sure you do have the money to set aside each month so you can reach your goal.
RESEARCH
When buying new products, especially children and baby products research and shop around, you will be surprised at what you will find. I also check Facebook Marketplace, so many unused items that are almost new.
SWITCH SUPPLIERS
Take some time out to research on comparison sites, often you will find great deals on household bills, car insurance, and more. Try to do this every 12-18 months.
The more aware you are of what you are spending the less likely you are to overspend. If you are a subscriber of ours you will receive FREE planner printables each month, such as our finance tracker to help you stay on track!
With Love x
Priya