By Hope van Noppen, MTE Documents Specialist
There are two types of people in this world: those who like spreadsheets, and those who don’t. For some of us there is nothing more exciting than a new method to look at numbers. For others, numbers cause our eyes to glaze over and our only hope is in disconnected endurance.
I am firmly on the latter side. But I also know I have less financial anxiety when I can see the numbers simply written out in front of me.
I remind myself and I remind you: When you begin, don’t make it complicated or think about how you are going to get out of debt. That will come later. Financial awareness starts with determining where you stand.
Ask these questions while assembling your expenses sheet:
- What is your income?
- What are your expenses?
- Is your balance positive or negative?
- Has your debt increased or decreased?
These questions can be reviewed every week and provide you an opportunity to slow down, gain control, and simplify your financial awareness.
These questions will also allow you to work on creating a plan as you learn to track your spending and grow in your understanding of where your money may be leaking away. As you gain awareness, this planning will be a source of hope and freedom. You will be telling your money where to go, instead of it telling you.
Keep it simple. Slow your pace. Keep track and plan.