One of the most important keys to having a budget work is to have money set aside for frivolous spending. The amount varies depending on your budget and how tight you are, but that money is a key in helping you stay on budget. It can save you from going crazy and spending even though you do not have money to. You can spend hours thinking about ways to spend the money and decide the best way each month or you can save it for a few months and get a large ticket item. This is money you don’t have to be accountable for. Here is a list of my favorite ways to spend my fun money.
1- A massage. I would do this once a week if I could afford it. No better way to feel refreshed and happy.
2- Dinner out with my husband is one treat I love. This is a great way to enjoy good food and have an actual conversation without worrying about the kids.
3- A new book to read. Reading is my favorite pastime, and I can always use a new book.
4- A magazine subscription. There are a few magazines that I enjoy reading cover to cover and that I would willingly spend the money on. One bonus is that this splurge would follow me throughout the year.
5- Chocolate. I have been known to spend my entire month’s money on a box of rich dark chocolate—and I didn’t share with my kids.
6- Exercise videos. I have quite a collection and love to get new ones to watch.
7- A new pair of shoes. This is always fun, and I often feel so frivolous.
8- A gift for my husband—usually a video game. This is fun every now again. I don’t do this often since he has his own fun money, but if he has been working extra hard, I like to let him know I appreciate it.
9- Something fun for my kids. They love a new video or game to play.
10- Fast food for the family—so I can have a break from cooking. I really feel this is worth my fun money some months.
What’s yours?
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