Don’t let hard-earned money disappear

Dear Dave,
    I work long hours, and I make pretty good money. The problem is the money from my paychecks always seems to disappear before the end of the month. I know part of the problem is grabbing quick meals between extra shifts and eating out a lot after work because I’m usually too tired to cook when I get home. How can someone who has very little free time start gaining control of their finances?
    Sheila
    
Dear Sheila,
    No matter how little free time you think you have, or how tired you are, you must make time to do a written budget every month. This is essential. Making a budget for the month ahead isn’t a lot of hard work, and it really doesn’t take long. When you give every dollar a name before the month begins, you’re taking control of your money instead of allowing a lack of it to control you.

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