Lifestyle
How many times have you checked your bank account in the middle of the month and thought: "Where did my salary go?" Before you know it, you're stuck drinking the office's free coffee even though you don't even like it. If your salary keeps running out too soon, you're not alone. Luckily, there are simple, proven ways to make it last without having to survive on falafel for the rest of the month (unless you want to, of course!).
In this article, we'll share easy money-saving tips and smart budgeting ideas to make your salary work for you instead of disappearing in the first week. Ready? Let's get started!
Divide your salary like a pizza
The first step to managing your money is setting a realistic budget. One that fits your actual lifestyle, not a perfect version of it. Don't assume you'll only spend 10 JOD a week on food when you know that's what you might spend on one meal. Calculate your income, cover your essential expenses, set a reasonable limit for fun spending, and don't forget to save! Here's an example of dividing your salary using the 50/30/20 rule:
🍕 50% for essentials: Rent, bills, transportation, and loan payments if you have any.
🍕 30% for fun: Treat yourself because life isn't just about paying the bills!
🍕 20% for savings: Because saving helps you reach your financial goals and is the key to financial stability.
If this exact method doesn't work for you, try organising your finances in a similar way.
Set a daily allowance
Instead of spending your salary without a plan, break it down into a daily budget. After paying rent and bills, divide what's left by 30. For example, if you have 600 JOD left, that means you can spend 20 JOD per day. This method is simple yet effective. When you know exactly how much you can afford each day, you'll think twice before buying that expensive coffee or ordering a meal you're not hungry to eat. You'll become more aware of your expenses, start prioritising better, and even realise you were spending money on things you never needed!
Wait 2 days before making a purchase
One of the most common mistakes people make is spending like they're rich for a day as soon as they get their salary! You might find yourself buying things you don't actually need, like fancy shoes, a new phone, or workout equipment that will sit unused after 2 weeks. Before you give in to impulse, try this golden rule: Wait 2 days. Just 48 hours!
At first, it might be tough. You'll convince yourself that this phone or those shoes will change your life. But after 2 days, you'll realise that about 70% of the things you wanted to buy don't seem as important anymore, and you can live without them. And on the rare occasion you still want the item after waiting, you'll buy it knowing it's a smart investment, not just an impulse purchase. This way, you'll save your money for things that truly matter instead of filling your closet with things you'll regret later.
Track your spending
Sometimes, money isn’t wasted on big purchases but rather on small daily expenses that add up. That morning coffee (4 JOD × 30 days = 120 JOD per month), unused subscriptions, or a gym membership you no longer use can all drain your budget. Even food delivery fees can become a significant expense over time.
But don't worry, the solution is simple! Take 10 minutes to review your expenses from last month, and you'll likely find easy ways to save by cutting out things you don't really need. Use the Monthly Spending Report feature to get a clear overview of your spending each month. Available in the updated Spending Analysis section, it shows your spending patterns, total earnings and expenses, top 3 spending categories, largest purchase, total cashback earned, and lets you compare expenses across months.
Once you know where your money is going, you'll be able to manage it better!
Make saving money fun, not difficult
Saving money doesn't have to be boring. Turn it into a fun challenge with these ideas:
💰 The 5 JOD challenge: Every time you get a 5 JOD bill, set it aside. By the end of the month, you'll find you have an extra amount saved in case of an emergency!
🚫 The no-spend week: Try going a full week without buying anything unnecessary. You'll be surprised at how much you can save just by skipping small, unimportant purchases!
💡 The smart swap challenge: Instead of eating at a pricey restaurant, try cooking the same meal at home. Need a book? Borrow one from a friend or find a free digital version.
Finally: Learn to say "No"
Sometimes, all we need is a little self-control. Don't be afraid to say no to plans that don't fit your budget or things you don't really need. The last thing you want is to run out of money before the month is over!
