The Student Room Group

Living within my means: An accountability thread for budgeting

I’ve calculated exactly how much I need to spend and set that amount aside. I’ve also included a small extra buffer just in case, but it’s only enough to cover something small, like meal deals which means I can’t splash out

I’ve kept all my travel money for the money on my oyster and lunch money on my bank card (should I have it as cash?)

Biggest issues rn:
- can not avoid shops whenever I’m out. It feels odd leaving home and not spending money even if it’s a pound
- snacksss are draining my money

Aim: To update daily on whether I was able to avoid shops or not and if I stayed within budget.

Reply 1

just make small changes. eat fruit instead of a snack. a bag of apples can be obtained for £1 at poundland.

Reply 2

Oh yh I started doing that with fruits and veggies I like but either way I’m still spending unnecessary money so my aim isn’t to consume healthier foods but to be mindful of my spending
Not sure who you bank with but many banks now allow you to set up 'pots' on their apps so you can budget and track spending on different things like eating out, shopping, entertainment, bills etc. I think this is a really useful tool to help with budgeting and worth looking into :smile:

Reply 4

Day 1: I spent a pound.

It’s not about how little I spent, but about staying mindful and disciplined with every purchase and this purchase was not necessary at all. However I had a £20 note and made sure I didn’t use

Reply 5

Original post by CamembertPaws
Not sure who you bank with but many banks now allow you to set up 'pots' on their apps so you can budget and track spending on different things like eating out, shopping, entertainment, bills etc. I think this is a really useful tool to help with budgeting and worth looking into :smile:


Are you talking about Monzo?

I’m currently with Natwest
Original post by Brainless12
Are you talking about Monzo?

I’m currently with Natwest

Monzo are one example, I know there are others that do it too :smile:

Reply 7

Original post by CamembertPaws
Monzo are one example, I know there are others that do it too :smile:


If the next two months go terribly I’ll give it a try. Thanks!

Reply 8

So I’ll be going out with my friend today to eat - I’ll aim to be mindful of whatever I get and stay within my means 🫣

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