For me the beginning of the year is never January its always September. I think because big J starts his new school year September and my work year starts in September it just feels right. So with September here its time for me to start planning. They say there are 3 types of people, a past person, a present person and a future person. I am definitely a future person. I'm not truly happy unless I am planning something.
The iPhone calendar is a great way for me to keep on top of what I need to plan for.
So every year around this time I start thinking about the year ahead and what I need to plan and usually it involves working to a budget.
Holidays/Getaways – While this may not be feasible when the money is tight, we do like to take at least one family holiday in July or August. It gives us the opportunity to spend time together as a family and build memories. A long holiday may not always be possible, but at the very least a weekend or two away is a must for my budget plan. I like to try and book as early as possible to try and cut costs.
Family Birthdays – We have family birthdays or celebrations every month of the year so I like to make sure we have money set aside each month for these. Usually we go out for a meal but I am hoping we may have an indian summer so we can have a cheeky BBQ or two. Buying supplies, food, beverages and decorations can be but I love having everyone round.
Winter Wardrobe – It doesn't seem that long ago that we kitted ourselves out in shorts and t-shirts but if the recent weather is anything to go by we will be wearing our winter warmers soon.
Chritsmas - Our favourite time of year. I absolutely love Christmas shopping and buying gifts for everyone. I do try and have a set budget but usually once I go in the Disney store the budget goes out the window.
You can see how quickly all of these costs start to mount up. I feel really good about my finances when I keep these sorts of concerns in mind and build a budget template that includes them. I also start each Autumn season by checking my credit report here Experian Credit Report, in order to ensure that nothing suspicious or detrimental has appeared over the past year, and I am amazed at how many people neglect to take this simple step! Get on track for year with a brainstorming session, your budget and a credit report check.
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