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[quote=Anonymous][quote=Anonymous]We just started an all-cash plan for the next two months.  But we did not use envelopes.  We are using it as a way to be mindful, and track what we spend in an effort to develop an accurate budget at the end of these two months.

Basically, we calculated how much cash we would have each month after deducting bills and automated savings (which we upped significantly).  We then withdrew that whole amount from the bank and split it between the two of us.  Each time we spend anything, we log it into a shared spreadsheet- the date, amount, what it was and a general idea of what "category" it might fall under.  This method allows you to pay for that postage or haircut, but with the consequence that there wil be less money to go around.  At the end of the two months, we'll hopefulyl have spent less money, and also have a very clear picture of where our money is going, beyond general categories.
[b]
As an aside, we bought a new house this year and found ourselves spending tons of money on things we "needed" for the new house.  I evantually realized that alot fo the stuff (area rugs, window treatments, patio furniture, towel racks) really could wait until I had saved for them.  Now, we have entire rooms with nothing on the walls because I cannot afford to buy artwork.  I'm OK with that.  It is a "want" not a "need."  I'm not saying you are in the same boat, but thought you might be.[/b][/quote]

OP again - I've had that same realization.  We have empty walls, rooms with out area rugs, etc.   My fear is that if we don't start saving more money, we won't get to a point where we can get those things!

Thanks for the suggestions.

And for us to, much of our spending is done online.  if we took cash for just eating out and groceries, I feel like it wouldn't make much of an impact on our overall big picture.

One challenge is that most of my "discretionary" spending - the spending that drives the credit card bill up each, and every single month, doesn't seem discretionary.  Yes, I can probably do better about getting some of the stuff cheaper (amazon is super easy, but not always the best price), but it's not like I can skip most of the stuff.  I think I just need to be better about planning for it - I check the online statements daily, and yet somehow it always hurts/is a surprise/disappointment when it's time to pay the bill and it's higher than I expected.

could be a financial planner could help with this; but that's another expense!

keep the suggestions coming![/quote]

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