Thoughts on the personal budget

For most of us, budgets are getting tighter.  Things are costing more, but income is flat.  At least that is the case here in Brinkmanland.

Here are some thoughts on making ends meet when costs are up and income is flat:

1.  Make more.  My son in law, David Philips says that everyone needs a job, and everyone needs a side gig.  Even if you don't have a job, there is some side gig for everyone.  

• Sell stuff on ebay or facebook marketplace.
• make something crafty to sell.
• get a part time job.
• become a pet sitter/walker
• sell your services as a shopper or a driver.
• there are lots of ideas if a person would apply themselves.

2.  Spend less.

Don't buy that. Stop buying that thing completely.
Buy generic
Buy in quantity.

Find alternative items to purchase.

search "affordable meals to make at home" and cook them.

Turn the thermostat up.

3.  Save more.  Every dollar saved today, is a dollar available tomorrow.

4.  Don't waste anything.

Waste not, want not.  When I was a kid, we never ate out.  Well rarely.  We went to McDonalds 2X per year and eating out was for birthdays only.  My mom washed off aluminum foil and reused it.  We ate leftovers until they were gone.  Nothing was wasted.  Ever.

Finally, to make a budget work, everyone has to be willing to do whatever it takes to make the ends meet.

We will work it out.  All of us.  And we can help each other along the way.

It's a beautiful day in God's world, be sure to see the good.