No Spend Month: The wrap up

OK, So we finished out last week of NSM, and to be honest - we didn't do so hot.  We actually went out to breakfast AND bought some stuff at Home Depot.  So, basically, broke the NSM rules.  I think we were just over it.  That being said, I do think that doing NSM has given us a new perspective on how we spend our money and what we spend it on.  Being forced to think about each purchase really makes it clear that: 1.) Just because you want it doesn't mean you should buy it.  2.) Having a strict budget really makes you question each and every purchase.  Is it really necessary?  Do I really want/need it?

That last thing, I suspect, is what is going to influence how we budget from now on.  We have set a budget for different categories of spending (groceries, eating out, gas) based partially on what we did during NSM. Knowing that we have a set amount of money to spend on certain things will allow us to choose to do those fun things - but also choose not to.  And we have carried over a few new habits - yesterday, K drove my (more gas efficient) car to work. It turns out that NSM was good for our budget - even though we had some unusual expenses, our thrifty ways ended up balancing that out.  So, despite our failure to adhere to NSM rules, I still call it a success.

FREE Dave Ramsey Total Guide to Budgeting Download

Here is a free download of Dave Ramsey's Guide to Budgeting.  This goes well with any plans to get your finances into shape this year.  I have heard of Dave Ramsey quite a bit in the couponing community, and many people swear by his methods for getting out of debt.  Go HERE to check it out!

Thanks to The Cents'able Shoppin