💰 Money Without the Stress: A Simple Guide to Budgeting and Debt
Money can feel stressful. It can be hard to track where it’s going. You might feel guilty about spending or anxious about what you owe.
You’re not alone—and you’re not bad with money.
You don’t need to be a finance expert to take control. You just need tools that work for you and a plan that fits your life.
Let’s break it down. 👇
🧠 What Budgeting Really Means
Budgeting isn’t about saying “no” all the time.
It’s about making your money work for you.
Think of it like this:
Budgeting = telling your money where to go so it supports what matters most to you.
✅ Try the 60/20/20 Rule:
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60% = Essentials
Rent, food, transport, bills — things you need to live. -
20% = Financial Goals
Savings, paying off debt, investing — future-you stuff. -
20% = Fun/Lifestyle
Hobbies, takeout, self-care, treats — things that make life enjoyable. -
This gives you structure without micromanaging every pound.
💳 Dealing With Debt (Without Shame)
Debt doesn’t mean failure.
Many people have debt — it’s normal.
The goal is not guilt. The goal is a plan.
Types of Debt:
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Credit Card Debt – Pay off first (high interest)
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Student Loans – Flexible repayments
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Car/Home Loans – Lower interest, plan for them
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Buy Now, Pay Later – Only works if you track it
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Two Helpful Methods:
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Debt Avalanche = Pay off the debt with the highest interest first
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Debt Snowball = Pay off the smallest debt first to stay motivated
Pick the one that feels better for you. Both work.
🧽 Let Go of Shame Around Money
You’re not “bad” with money.
You’re learning — and that’s progress.
💡 Start with small steps:
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Check your bank balance weekly
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Save a small amount automatically
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Use a shopping list to avoid surprises
Consistency > Perfection
🛠️ Tools That Can Help
You don’t have to do it all manually.
Try one of these:
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YNAB (You Need A Budget) – gives every pound a job
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Mint / Monarch – tracks your spending with charts
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Google Sheets / Notion – fully custom
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Banking Apps – auto-save options to help you build habits
Choose what feels easy and supportive — not overwhelming.
🌈 Final Thoughts
Budgeting and debt plans are about freedom, not punishment.
They help you feel more in control — not less.
You don’t need to get it perfect. You just need to start.
One step at a time.
And don’t forget to celebrate your progress 🎉
Let me know if you’d like a version with:
📄 Worksheet layout
🖼️ Infographic
📊 Slide format for Wix blog or site
I can help design it visually too!