Keeping track

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-14-2008
Keeping track
4
Fri, 12-19-2008 - 4:54pm

In the past I have always tried to keep track of my money using a spread sheet on the computer. I always started out strong, but then I would peter out. I would mean to enter my spending, but I'd turn off the computer, and I wouldn't bother to turn it on again. After skipping a few days I would get overwhelmed and then quit altogether.

So, last night I spent some time doing a budget in a notebook. I entered in what I spent yesterday. Figured out how much I have left for variable expenses and used that to plan for the holiday season. If all goes as planned, I will have some money to snowflake to my savings/car.

Budgeting and keeping track of money has always been the hardest part for me. In fact, I am surprised that I have been able to make as much progress as I have. So, here I go again, giving this another crack. Wish me luck!

Tara






iVillage Member
Registered: 11-17-2007
Fri, 12-19-2008 - 5:01pm

I have always been a fat lady and years ago I got interested in the Richard Simmons program for losing weight


In my mind I have always considered budgeting, money keeping track, and lowering debt is much like a diet


Richard used to preach all the time that it takes 28 days to make a good habit your own.


Maybe consider your efforts at keeping track in the same way. It might take you 28 days to make it your own.


I know you can do it. Just take one day at a time. Think of this as a money diet.


In no time you will be down to that ideal weight and debt free.


Mary Ann


iVillage Member
Registered: 07-02-2008
Fri, 12-19-2008 - 5:15pm

Perhaps you should reconsider your plan. I think you NEED to track your expenses but is it too confusing or difficult on the computer? I am not overly computer saavy so I actually don't track stuff online. I track it with a notebook and a checkbook. Just makes it easier for me to see and I can grab my notebook and write something down without waiting for a computer to log on and etc. etc. etc.


Just wanted to throw it out there. Maybe you should try another approach IF your computer thing fails. Which it won't b/c I know you are determined!!!!!


Good Luck!

iVillage Member
Registered: 07-26-1999
Fri, 12-19-2008 - 7:50pm
I think you just posted my story. I am just trying to track my spending; got a few days in and then just started piling up the receipts again. I have to try harder.
iVillage Member
Registered: 04-10-2003
Fri, 12-19-2008 - 8:06pm
I'm the same way. I have these amazing spreadsheets set up on my computer . . . and I hardly use them, lol. I got a new pocket agenda from work and it fits in my purse. I am going to start tracking my spending in that since I will have it with me at all times!!! Then I can put it into my spreadsheets and see where I stand!

Bex -


"Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, today is a gift -thats why its called the present."


Bex -