At one point or another anyone trying to follow a budget will be faced with choosing between being true to their financial plan or giving in to the pressure of others.
Perhaps a friend wants to try an expensive new restaurant but your eating out budget couldn't cover the tip, what would you do? Though you may be tempted to go you would probably spend the evening miserable knowing you are spending money you really don't have. It's okay to say no. Simply tell them it isn't in your budget and suggest an alternative you can afford. Search the Internet for things to do in your area such as free admission days to local museums or perhaps pack a lunch to eat at the local park. If spending quality time with your friends requires overspending your budget consider finding new friends.
Work is another place that may leave you feeling pressured. Well meaning employees always seem to be asking you to contribute to a workplace collection. You don't have to give just because you are asked. It's not a requirement of the job. If not participating makes you feel uncomfortable budget a set amount for such collections, giving only what you can afford. If someone accuses you of being "cheap" tell them you are on a budget and this is what you can afford. Gift giving should be because you want to, not because you feel you have to. I would much rather get a gift that cost the giver nothing yet came from the heart rather than get an expensive gift given from a sense of obligation.
The only people who should get a say in how you spend your money are you and those in your household. This is your personal finance, don't let the wishes of others dictate where your money goes. As you realize the benefits of sticking to your budget, saying no will get a whole lot easier.
Perhaps a friend wants to try an expensive new restaurant but your eating out budget couldn't cover the tip, what would you do? Though you may be tempted to go you would probably spend the evening miserable knowing you are spending money you really don't have. It's okay to say no. Simply tell them it isn't in your budget and suggest an alternative you can afford. Search the Internet for things to do in your area such as free admission days to local museums or perhaps pack a lunch to eat at the local park. If spending quality time with your friends requires overspending your budget consider finding new friends.
Work is another place that may leave you feeling pressured. Well meaning employees always seem to be asking you to contribute to a workplace collection. You don't have to give just because you are asked. It's not a requirement of the job. If not participating makes you feel uncomfortable budget a set amount for such collections, giving only what you can afford. If someone accuses you of being "cheap" tell them you are on a budget and this is what you can afford. Gift giving should be because you want to, not because you feel you have to. I would much rather get a gift that cost the giver nothing yet came from the heart rather than get an expensive gift given from a sense of obligation.
The only people who should get a say in how you spend your money are you and those in your household. This is your personal finance, don't let the wishes of others dictate where your money goes. As you realize the benefits of sticking to your budget, saying no will get a whole lot easier.
No comments:
Post a Comment