Why do I always spend too much money?

Reasons for overspending and how to save money

To build wealth and reach financial independence, you simply need to spend less than you earn. It’s an easy concept to understand, but why is it so difficult to put into practice? To answer this question, you need to examine the roots of overspending and you spend so much. When you know what’s driving your spending, you can fight back and save money so that you can spend less than you earn.

Before we get into it, this is a no-shame space. It's a big step to acknowledge that you struggle with something so well done. 

Getting to the root of the problem – A few reasons for overspending

Easy access to credit cards

Using a credit card can feel like the best choice in making purchases, but when swiping becomes the norm (or is over-used), your debt can easily spiral out of control. With interest rates on most credit card debt at approximately 21%, a credit card can be very expensive debt which is very difficult to fix. Always use it wisely or avoid them altogether.

Monthly payments make it more accessible

It used to be that if you wanted something, you had to save up and pay cash. These days, you can buy on a monthly payment plan for anything from a car to a couch to household appliances. But, with monthly payment plans, you end up paying much more than the product is actually worth, all because of the interest charged.

Spending to feel good

Some people have an addiction to spending money and buying things, it makes them feel good. But the high always wears off and they need to move on to the next purchase. Are you spending money to temporarily fill a void?

Giving in to temptation

It’s very easy to go out and have a good time, but do you have the money to pay for it? You can put it on the credit card but if you can’t pay it off then it could cost you in the long term.

Not focusing on long term goals

We overspend because we’re distracted when it comes to daily purchases. We should rather be focusing on our long-term savings and retirement goals.

If you relate to any or all of the above points, then here are a few ways you can turn these around:

How to turn stop overspending:

Look at your spending

Give yourself a wake-up call and track your spending. Knowing where you are overspending is half the battle. 

Set up a budget

The next step is to set up a budget. If, for example, you struggle with spending in your dining-out category, set a limit of how much you can spend on that every month, and don’t go over!

Here's a fully customisable FREE budget template to get you started. 

Start living below your means

While it may sound like a simple concept to live below your means, it is sometimes easier said than done. The reality is, if you’re serious about saving and living debt-free; you’ll have to start living on less than you make.

Get your debt under control

Once you’re living below your means and all debt is paid off, you can start saving and investing and start living!

Contact Meerkat today for a FREE no-obligation debt assessment!