Planning a monthly budget that you can reasonably be expected to stick to also requires that you set aside just a bit of 'fun' money – to take in a movie, visit a salon or day-spa, or to spend on something you want as a treat. In fact, you actually need a little bit of throw-away money; otherwise, your budget may suffer. While you're being faithful and steadfast in adhering to your monthly budget, putting aside just five or ten dollars a paycheck can allow you to occasionally indulge yourself on something special. Of course, this is predicated on your paying all the household bills and debts first.
After you've made all your necessary payments, you may or may not have a large amount of funds left over, depending upon your own particular financial circumstances. But whatever you have, try not to squander it all. Put some of it into your savings, and allow another small portion for use just to blow at some point during the month without the need to feel guilty about doing so.
Besides, we all need a treat every once in a while, as long as it's within limits. For example, let's assume at the end of each month you have about $100 left over. Take half and buy an outfit, enjoy dinner out and a movie, or splurge on a couple of video games. Sequester the other half in your savings or add it to your next credit card payment. You'll be that much closer to paying off one of those pesky debts.
Conversely, if you don't put any money aside for fun, you may be tempted to use a credit card or spend part of the budget allowance that's earmarked for another use. This can have the added effect of leaving you in a jam the following month in case you do actually need to buy something. You could find yourself either not being able to afford it or having to draw on other funds (such as your savings) to pay for it.
We all want to enjoy life as much as possible and regardless of how frugal we are, there are times when a night out on the town (or some other minor diversionary venture) is just what the doctor ordered. But you must remember to keep your perspective as well as your goals in plain sight. For instance, if you're saving for a summer vacation, you'll most likely want to put away as much money toward it as possible.
Budgets are implemented to bring about a disciplined and systematic approach to saving and spending. Allocating a small amount of 'fun' money from each paycheck will allow you to splurge on some little luxury for yourself or your family at some point during the month. Hey, it's a neat little reward for being financially responsible, a small 'atta-boy' for a job well done. There's no need to go through life in "white-knuckle" fashion; it's okay to have a little fun along the way. In actuality, it makes it all just a little bit easier.
