You Need a Budget: The Proven System for Breaking the Paycheck to Paycheck Cycle, Getting Out of Debt, and Living the Life You Want

by Jesse Mecham

In truth, when we’re stressed about our finances, it’s because we’re not sure our money decisions are aligned with the life we want to be living. The question we need to ask ourselves isn’t Can I? or Should I? It’s What do I want my money to do for me?

Most of our money stress swirls around two debilitating questions: Can I? and Should I? Forget both questions, because they’ll never help you make good money decisions. Instead, ask yourself: What do I want my money to do for me? Once you do this, you’re letting your priorities drive your choices.

If guilt haunts you it’s usually because: 1. You know in your gut that a bigger priority needs more of your attention; or 2. You’re letting other people’s expectations of how you should live your life color your choices.

Forget future money; use today’s money to write your future.