Do you struggle with your finances? Does it seem like there is no light at the end of the tunnel? If you feel this way, consider financial budgeting.

Financial budgeting is a practice that has been around for many years. The sad thing is that many people have not used it. We are a nation of convenient consumers. As such, it has been so much easier for us to spend rather than to save.

 A budget is one of the most difficult things for a person to start. Yet despite this difficulty, it can be very rewarding in the long run. The financial freedom that comes from following a budget far outweighs any anxiety that you may have about beginning a budget!

 I would recommend the following steps to get started following a budget:

1. Make a list of your income. Include all forms of earnings for anyone in the home that contributes to your families financial situation.

2. Make a list of your expenses. Include not only your bills, but necessities as well.

3. Determine what works best for you. Would you like to write out your budget each month? Or do you work best at having your budget stored electronically on a computer?

4.  Add up the total of your expenses monthly. Also add up the total of your monthly income. Make sure that your monthly income is your net income, not your gross.

5. Once you have your totals, subtract your total expenses from your total income.

6. The remaining amount is known as discretionary income. This income can be used for spending or saving.

Now that you have your budget outlined and you know what you are spending each month, the next step is to implement this budget. You might feel overwhelmed at first. Don't worry. This is a normal feeling. It wil soon subside as you see how financial budgeting will work for you!