The Power of Purposeful Planning and Small Changes
The Power of Purposeful Planning and Small Changes
If you’re like me, then finances and budgeting stress you out and you tend to avoid talking about them. For my husband and I, we deliberately plan to sit down and review expenses and write down our financial goals twice a year. We make it fun by cooking tacos to ease the pressure of financial planning. If you wait to find time to have these tough conversations, you’ll always put them off. Making claims like “we should cut down on spending this month” in passing likely doesn’t affect much change. By making time in both your schedules to intentionally create joint financial goals, you are more likely to accomplish them and feel like you’re tackling them as a team!
We are purchasing our first home this year and have really focused on making our small spending meaningful. Reviewing where our money is actually going using online websites/budgeting tools helps identify areas where excess funds are going, and highlights targets for trimming. Small but consistent changes like reducing the times we eat out add up quickly!
MilSpouse Money
Mission Response:
It is understandable that discussing finances can seem challenging. We appreciate your candid and honest tip, Tate! A regular financial check-in combined with a fun dinner date is a great way to make sure you and your spouse are on track with financial goals and enjoy quality time together. You and your spouse may have differences of opinion and experience and our Personal Financial Values and Money Manager worksheets can be good discussion tools to get the conversation started. Prioritize regular conversations and reviews of your finances. It will help ease possible discomfort between you and your spouse about finances and help you to work together toward your goals for the future.
Buying a home is a goal many people have, and Tate’s tip to review and track spending is key! Once you know where your money is going, align your spending with your needs and goals. Remember to set SMART goals that are Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound. Make sure to account for your goals in your budget, track your progress, and celebrate your achievements together!
