Budget Your Way to Financial Independence

For the book The Millionaire Next Door, researchers asked the question, 'Do you know how much your family spends each year for food, clothing and shelter?' Almost two thirds (62.4 percent) of the millionaires said 'yes.' Only about 35% of non-millionaires said they did, even though they are high-income earners.

The millionaires also budgeted very carefully for savings and most save 20% or more of their gross income. Few save less than 15%. 'Why save so much,' you ask? Quite simply, for emergencies, opportunities and to provide future income.

Following is a Budget Worksheet to help you get started. Keep track of your monthly spending and try to account for every dollar. On a daily basis, record each expenditure and what it was used for. This should give you a clearer picture of where your money goes and where you can make changes in your spending habits. Make sure you account for every expenditure, and don't overlook small or routine expenses. Use a pencil or make copies so changes can be made as needed, and review often.

Click here for Spending Record

Your present financial situation is the sum total of every past 'money' decision. Nobody can change their past, but anyone can start today to change their future.

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Copyright © 2010 Life Letter. All rights reserved. For informational purposes only and is based on the perspectives and opinions of the owners and writers only. The information provided is not intended to provide specific financial advice.. Readers are advised to seek professional advice before making any financial decision based on any of the ideas presented in this article. This copyright information presented online is not to be copied, or clipped or republished for any reason. The publisher does not guarantee the accuracy and will not be held liable in any way for any error, or omission, or any financial decision.