We have all been put into a situation financially where we did not have the money to spend but spent anyways! Being a college student does not help with this situation either. We live in a world where most feel the need to keep up with their peers and by doing that we sometimes end up spending money that we do not have. Unfortunately, there is not a magic formula to being able to say, “no” when the time comes to financial obligations.
We sometimes go out of our way to avoid tricky situations, especially when it involves money. However, there are some steps that you can take to assist in being able to stick to your budget and not spending money that you do not have. Having honest communication about your finances with your friends and loved ones, budgeting for events, limiting yourself, and not keeping score.
Communicating your goals to your friends and family.
You should be honest with your friends and family when it comes to your goals financially. If they understand what you are trying to accomplish they will have a better understanding of why you turn outings down and why saving or getting out of debt is so important to you.
Budgeting for events.
Almost every goal that you set for yourself in life may have money involved. It is important to set your goals early and decide how you are going to achieve those goals. Budgeting does not have to be only for big lifelong goals, it can be for mini trips or having a fun night out with your friends.
Limit yourself to the amount of activities you do.
In today’s society we often feel pressured to be involved and to not say, “no.” Saying no to going out to dinner, drinks or buying new items all the time can be difficult but it is important to learn how to limit yourself.
Keeping score.
Keeping score with your loved ones, friends and family can be dangerous. When it comes to money you should never compare yourself to what others have or make. Each individual is going to be in a different place at a different time. It is important to not try to keep up with the Joneses.
I leave you with this remember that peer pressure can be difficult but if you make your goals and priorities your number one focus it will affect you less. Last but not least if you ask to not be peer pressured financially or you ask for their help with sticking to your budget from your friends remember, to do the same for them.
By: Camila Haselwood
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