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Live for the moment vs save for the future

Posted on 1 February 2019
Live for the moment vs save for the future

Money and Life
(Financial Planning Association of Australia)


Don't be a slave to your savings

Mastering money starts with a budget and there's no doubt that feeling in control of your money is linked to your overall wellbeing. But you might be reluctant to set a budget when it makes you feel like all your money is spoken for. Life can seem very limited if you've already decided on the exact destination for each and every dollar.

So instead of becoming a slave to saving for the future, here's a five-step approach that keeps your options open for doing some spontaneous spending once in a while, without losing out on your future financial stability as a result.

1. Get cash flow savvy

Figuring out just where your money is going right now night seem like a hassle. But it's absolutely necessary if you're going to achieve your goal of saving and also spending a little just for the sake of it. Understanding your spending habits and patterns can shed some light on where you're spending more than you need to, so you can start to make better choices with your dollars in step 2.


2. Budget based on what matters

Now it's crunch time for making good on those cash flow lessons you've been learning. By looking at where your money has been going, you've got the knowledge you need to stop spending on things that are less important. This frees up more dollars for your savings and what you really value.

Let's take dining out for example. If you have your heart set on an overseas holiday once a year, ask yourself if weekly restaurant meals are as important?  By cooking at home for three out of every four Saturdays and saving that money towards travel instead, you're directing your budget towards what matters to you.

3. Limit fixed commitments


4. Automate your savings

Whether it's saving for a new car so you won't have that long-term commitment to paying off a loan plus interest a holiday, or just a rainy day, setting up separate accounts for these goals helps you see that you're making progress. And making automatic deposits from your income into these accounts is the ideal way to ensure you're making regular contributions towards your goals.

5. Plan to spend spontaneously


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