Every two to three weeks, I am forced to be responsible with my paychecks because ultimately I am responsible for my own well-being. I wanted to share how I budget my checks for the month to help someone else out.  Each day, I am forcing myself to make good financial decisions because I desire to live debt free and to inspire the people that I love to do the same thing.

Budgeting isn't a cookie cutter experience so I enlisted some help from one of my favorite books, Personal Finance in Your 20s for DUMMIES. I felt silly buying this book, but I knew that I needed it. If you're unsure of what to do with your money then I'd suggest you pick it up as well. My key takeaways were to save and minimize debts. No brainers, right? Not when you've never had to budget or ever seen anyone else budget up close and personal.

My favorite tip was to shop around for quality. I am in an awkward place where I want nice clothing items and want to establish my style without running to H&M every weekend for something new. I am learning to invest in quality pieces, shoes, makeup and home decor that will lasts. Cheaper and quick aren't always the best options. I do love H&M, yes, but the trick is to know what to purchase from what types of stores. Read more about how to on the run your wardrobe here.

Now back to budgeting, here is how I breakup my 1st check of the month:

Full Check
- Tithes (10%)
- Car insurance
- Food/home items
- Gas
- Savings
- Credit card debt
- Misc. (changes from check to check)
= Fun money

This month, I had to choose between new hair, getting my car fixed and finally painting my room. I decided to get my car fixed and to work on my room. Each day, I am forcing myself to make good financial decisions because I desire to live debt free and to inspire the people that I love to do the same thing. If I can set the trend, my entire lineage's lives will be changed. The same goes for you, so today I am challenging you to set a budget for yourself for 1 month's time and see how you feel about yourself.

I successfully went 2 weeks without buying excessive clothing, decor, or makeup and I'm super happy. I did buy primer and eyeliner that I needed, so I slipped a little there. Honestly, those purchases could have waited, but once I returned a couple of items I couldn't fight the urge. I have committed to NOT shopping for clothes until I lose 10 pounds. Read more here, That One Time I Left GAP Feeling Like a New Woman.

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