We may all start out with good intentions on saving money, but like the “New Year’s Weight Loss Plan” or the “I Will Never Yell Again Resolution”, good intentions often fall by the wayside under the every day pressures of life. Savings has to be intentional to succeed, but it also has to be doable. The other day when I was avoiding my to-do list and thumbing through facebook, I came across a chart showing a way to save money weekly for a year. I loved it! Now, hardcore savers may not be impressed with it, but the reality is everyone has to start with baby steps (Dave Ramsey followers should appreciate that terminology). Basically, find a system that will work for you!
Anyway, it is a great idea and simple, and can be easily altered to meet your needs. What would you like/need to save for? Think emergency fund, to pay off debts, vacation, automobile, home improvement, Christmas, a new television or appliance. You really need to designate a purpose beforehand because this gives you a reason to stick with your plan!
This plan is based on 52 weeks, but of course, you can adjust it with your paycheck- weekly, biweekly, monthly. Another variation is to reverse the chart to pay more at the beginning of the year and less at the end or to make an even monthly amount throughout the year. Again, whatever works for you is what you should choose. Try it for a year, feel the satisfaction of filling up all the checkboxes, and then use your accumulated money for its intended purpose. Then, plan again for another year, and for as many purposes as you choose. It indeed seems much easier than a woman giving up chocolate in a quest for a slimmer figure! Believe me, I know that to be true!