This piece is part of my 2016–2026 archive migration. Some original formatting, content, and external links may be missing, changed, or not be optimized.
For people who’ve been budgeting their whole lives
For most people, budgeting is the way to get a handle on your finances, propel yourself towards your financial goals, pay down debt, stay on track with your savings and investments, and ultimately grow your financial portfolio.
However, I’ve been budgeting all my life. I needed a f*cking break these past two months. Sometimes, we get to a point where we truly are doing all the right things financially, and not tracking your spending for a short stint of time will not hurt you in any way.
Not only did I experience a surge in income, but I knew there was no way I would spend all of my monthly income. Just isn’t happening. I’m not a true spender. I’m a saver. So, I gave myself a break because I knew I wouldn’t hurt myself by taking a break.
Here’s how I’m managing not budgeting:
I’m still living below my means.
I’m not spending crazily. No shopping sprees.
I’m still paying off my credit cards in full for the month.
I’m pushing any large purchases out that aren’t mandatory.
I’m not focusing on money, shopping, spending, or living larger.
Since my income is higher, I know my expenses are covered.
The budgeting will start back up 100% for the upcoming month.
My generosity has not decreased; I’m still giving as the opportunities arise.
I’ve been budgeting for so long that I clearly know what amounts are coming in and going out.
For business purchases, I’m solely using my business credit card; for personal purchases, I use my personal credit card.
99% of my purchases are on a credit card, meaning that the transactions are all being documented in some form.
I clearly understand my spending when I pay my monthly credit card bill. Is it higher, lower, or about the same? It’s stayed about the same as in previous months.
What can be cut out of my usual spending? I haven’t bought items from the usual categories I usually overinvest in because I’m realizing that many things I don’t need. I also don’t need to buy everything in bulk (a questionable habit of mine).
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.
This content is for informational purposes only — not professional advice. Consult a qualified professional before making any major decisions.