Managing Money

If you do not have a job or a steady income a budget may be the least of your concerns. You may not be in the position to consider paying off debts or saving because you are financially dependent on others. Perhaps you are on welfare and food stamps. There are times when it is not only necessary to apply for assistance, but the only choice you have. It is certainly not shameful.

Seeds to Grow On

from Living Learning Loving

Of course Money Matters, but it seems to matter most to you when it is all that matters. Many people on the planet are perfectly happy with very little money. Others with loads of money are unhappy. It is a matter of perspective. If you have had a huge shift in your household budget as a result of a divorce or death of a spouse you will have to realign your thinking about money.

Ask yourself, “What really matters?”  Most likely you already know the answer, but it helps to ask. Then follow the steps listed below to encourage you to keep priorities in proper perspective.

1. Make a list of your financial priorities. Rent or house payment might be at the top of the list. Use general, not specific, topics.
2. Check a book out from the church or public library on managing money. Read only the portions that pertain to you.
3. Develop a short (one year) and a long (five year) range plan. Include some treats, like a short vacation.
4. Review and research your spending each month. Break it into categories using the same categories each month.
5. Plan ahead for expenditures like back to school supplies and birthdays.
6. Develop a plan for savings even if in tiny amounts.
7. Make contact with someone who can help you.

Gail holds a degree from Lamar University in Speech and a Master’s from the University of Texas. She was an educator in regular and special education for twenty years, finishing her professional career as a Braille teacher. She is a Certified Professional Coach with Fowler International Academy.
She married Sam after raising three children as a single mother.

In 2007 She founded SMORE for Women. SMORE is a nonprofit association whose goal is Single Moms, Overjoyed, Rejuvenated, & Empowered. Her stories have been published in several Christian books and magazines. Her book, Living Learning Loving, published in July 2015, is available for purchase on CreateSpace, Amazon, or Barnes & Noble online.