The 2013 Budget

Every other housewife blog I know of has done this kind of post, so I figured I would join in. But since budgeting isn't exactly rocket science, this is going to be kept short and sweet.

• You have your income and you have your bills. 

• If the total amount of your bills exceed that of your income, you need to either supplement it or find ways to lower your bills. 

• If your income exceeds your bills, rejoice! You have spending money. Or savings money. That's a personal decision. 

Like I said, short and sweet. Budgeting is seriously that simple.

Just as a heads up, I count my monthly groceries and gas as bills. Unless my household decides they don't mind starving and walking everywhere, it's kinda a good idea to make sure we have the funds for 'em.

The only other tip I can think of is identifying your needs versus your wants.

Needs are: Food, shelter and utilities, clothing, health, and depending on your situation, such as living miles from work, a car.

Wants are: Cable/satellite television, internet, cellphone and a car.

Oh, wait... is someone saying that there's no way in hell they'll part with their sports car despite the exorbitant payments? Tough luck. When push comes to shove it's much more preferable to be sleeping in a bed and being able to take hot showers than living in the backseat of a car, no matter how luxurious it is.

In summary, don't spend more than you make.

P.S.
If you have debt, count it after your most important needs and before your wants.

If you want some more in-depth information, I suggest checking out this site: http://www.practicalmoneyskills.com/

Happy budgeting! :D