11 Small Mistakes That Are Hurting Your Budget & One They Don't Talk About

11 Small mistakes that are hurting your budget and one they don't talk about

💰 Struggling to make your budget work? You're not alone! If your budget keeps failing no matter how hard you try, chances are you're making one (or more) common mistakes. But don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! 

We’ll break down: 
✔ The biggest reasons why your budget isn’t working 
✔ Simple fixes to get your finances back on track 
✔ How to make budgeting work for YOU (without feeling restricted) 

😊 

Why Your Budget Isn’t Working

You’ve tried budgeting. You’ve made the spreadsheets, tracked your expenses, and maybe even cut back on some things… but somehow, it’s STILL not working. Money keeps disappearing, unexpected expenses keep popping up, and honestly, you’re feeling frustrated and ready to give up." 

 Why Your Budget Keeps Failing… and How to Fix It!
If that sounds familiar, you are NOT alone. A lot of people struggle with budgeting—not because they’re bad with money, but because they’re making small mistakes that add up.  

We’re going to go over 11 reasons why your budget may not be working and, more importantly, how to fix it so you can finally take control of your finances.  

#11 is probably the most important and most underrated reason why you’re having trouble sticking to a budget. It’s like never talked about. We are going to talk about it and stop having it be something shameful. Let’s get started! 

11 Reasons Why Your Budget Isn’t Working (and How to Fix It!) 

1️. You're Not Being Realistic. Your budget is too strict. If your budget is so tight that you feel deprived, it’s hard to stick with it. It’s important to be disciplined with your spending, a budget that leaves no room for flexibility will lead to frustration and burnout. If you constantly feel like you’re missing out, you’re more likely to give up on your budget altogether. Make sure your budget includes some flexibility and room for occasional treats. 

2️. You're Not Tracking. If you don’t track your spending, you might be overspending without realizing it. Use an app, spreadsheet, or budgeting binder to stay on top of it.

3. You're Not Giving Your Money A Job. You work, so should your money. If you don’t allocate your income, money will "disappear" without you knowing where it went. I have a play list of different budgeting methods you can use. Find the one that feels most comfortable for you. 

4. You're Ignoring Irregular Expenses. – Bills like car repairs, gifts, and annual fees sneak up on you if you don’t plan for them. Set aside a sinking fund for these. If these aren’t accounted for, they can throw off your budget and lead to financial stress. I just paid my annual prime membership. It’s totally worth it to me.  

5. You're Relying on Willpower Alone. A budget should work with your habits, not against them. Automate savings and bill payments so you don’t have to rely on self-control. If willpower alone worked, we would all be skinny. 

6. Your Budget Doesn’t Reflect Your Real Income. Sometimes, budgets fail because they’re based on an inaccurate picture of your income. If you’re using outdated or incorrect income figures, it’s going to end in tears. Make sure your budget reflects your current income, including any side hustles or irregular earnings. If your income changes, adjust your budget accordingly to keep it accurate. 

7. You’ve Overestimated Your Savings Potential. It’s easy to get excited and set overly ambitious savings goals, but if these goals are too high, it will hurt you when you don’t meet the goal. Set realistic and achievable savings goals based on your actual financial situation. Slow progress is still progress and less discouraging than trying to save more than you can realistically save. 

8. You're Not Adjusting for Life Changes. Life changes and so should your budget. If you’re not adjusting your it to reflect changes like a new job, moving, a shift in expenses, your budget might not work. When you experience life changes, review your budget and make the necessary adjustments. This keeps your it relevant and effective in managing your new financial situation. FYI, you really should be doing this every month. 

9. Your Budget Lacks An Emergency Fund. It’s like a ship without a lifeboat. If unexpected expenses come up that you haven’t planned for, it can sink you. Include saving for an emergency fund in your budget. Should something happen, you’re prepared. 

10. You're Not Motivated Enough. Without a strong "why," it’s easy to give up. Set clear financial goals, whether it’s getting out of debt, saving for a house, or achieving financial freedom. When you’re not feeling motivated or feeling tempted, remind yourself of your why.  

11. You’re Ignoring the Emotional Side of Budgeting. Finally, many budgets fail because they don’t consider the emotional side of money management. If your budget feels like a punishment, you’re not going to stick with it. If you feel like you don’t deserve to be debt-free or be comfortable in life, you’re not going to stick with it. If you feel unworthy or less than, you’re not going to stick with it.  

 I don’t know how many of you out there needs to hear this but you are worthy, you are deserving, getting into debt is not something to be ashamed of. Things happen, except it and work your way out of it.  

Incorporate funds in your budget that align with your values and bring you joy. Funds for things you enjoy, and remember that budgeting is about finding balance, not deprivation.  

If your budget isn’t working right, don’t get discouraged. Making a few adjustments and addressing common pitfalls may be all it takes. By understanding these mistakes and making the necessary changes, you can create a budget that truly works for you.