My approach to budgeting is that I try to stick to a plan. I keep a file listing all my expenses and income, including subscriptions, groceries, transportation, and other regular costs, and I organize my spending so I can see where the money goes. I don’t always stick to the budget, and my spending habits have gotten me into trouble before — I sometimes come close to not making it through the month and have to ask my mom for help. I’m working on changing that, and I’m considering joining spenders anonymous because I want to get my spending under control and build more stability.

I hope I stop feeling the urge to spend every day and learn to be content with what I have. I want to honor what I money I have and make good use of it, even if that means not having everything I want. Having what I need is most important to me, and I am committed to building that kind of stability.