Some parts of a budget are easy to set and stick to.

Your rent isnt going to fluctuate.

Your gym membership is probably a predictable amount.

The envelope system not just something my mom practiced in the 90s!

The budget-management method was popularized by financial guruDave Ramsey.

No peeking at your neighbors paper.

This is your own unique budget.

There are no wrong answers.

Then choose the categories where you want to track or rein in your spending.

Maybe youve gotten a little too add to cart-happy when it comes to online spending.

Popular categories for switching to cash envelopes include groceries, gifts, entertainment, and dining out.

When youre out of cash, youre out of luck.

Youre done for the month.

You have to wait until the calendar flips to take out new cash to refill your envelopes.

As for your tools of the trade, Ramsey sells a line ofproductsto keep your cash organized.

But you dont need to spend $14.99 or more (plus shipping) on a fancy faux checkbook.

you might use plain old envelopes with categories written on the front.

Each time you make a purchase, write the total on the envelope or slip the receipt inside.

This is not a PSA for walking around waving around large amounts of cash.

How much you carry will depend on the budget you set.

you could take along the envelope or clipped bills for entertainment.

If its flush, then you and your date can each get a popcorn to yourselves.

The envelope rules all!

Oh, I have a tab open!

Just put it on my tab!

Thirty-four dollars and three hours later, we have left happy hour.

Instead of keeping a nebulous tab running at the bar, I order a drink.

The bartender gives me the drink and tells me the cost.

I hand them some money, and they give me some change.

Now I can see how much I have left in my budget for this particular night.

The envelope system works because its not fun.

Touching money and handing it to a cashierhurtsinside your brain and soul much more than other forms of payment.

No one wants to face an empty envelope with plenty of month left.

What about online shopping?

So maybe this method isnt for you.

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