Why we avoid Budgeting & how to Overcome it
"Tell me again why you cant" - unknown.
Why Do We Avoid Budgeting When It’s Clearly in Our Best Interest?
Budgeting is one of the most powerful tools for financial stability, yet many of us resist it—even when we know it’s in our best interest. Why? The reasons often run deeper than simple avoidance. Hidden reluctance, emotional barriers, and misconceptions about money can all play a role in keeping us from taking control of our finances. Let’s explore some of the most common reasons we shy away from budgeting—and how to overcome them.
"Its too overwhelming"
It's quite a common phrase that I hear. and it often rears its head when we are faced with multiple urgent tasks which send us into overload. Its usually accompanied with extreme stress which never helps. Remember, the simple act of writing a budget is easy. Dont over complicate things. Do one thing at a time only. If you find yourself becoming stressed, get up and take a break. Remember, we are here to solve problems not focus on them.
"I Keep Failing."
One of life's biggest lessons—one that can only be learned, not merely experienced or taught—is that failure is not the destination; it's part of the journey. People often think they need to have this beautiful house and everything else they desire right now. If they don't have it immediately, they label themselves as failures.
Setting unrealistic goals within short time frames sets us up for disappointment. We repeatedly tell ourselves that if we don't have certain things, then nothing is good enough. But real joy and pride come from something long worked for and earned, rather than something just given.
"The System Is Stacked Against Me, and I'll Never Have What They Have."
I often hear this among people who aren't doing well financially. The notion that the system is against you can feel overwhelming. But the system is just a series of people working cooperatively to achieve and maintain an outcome. It's not some magical force preventing you from succeeding. Recognizing that the system isn't a monolithic obstacle but a network you can navigate is the first step toward financial empowerment.
Overcoming Barriers
Start by acknowledging and exploring the beliefs that hold you back. Maby your:
- Anxious because youve let your finances go MIA.
- Anxious about impending credit card and agency calls.
- Unsure where to start.
- Having difficulties with self esteem.
These barriers can manifest itself through:
-Procrastination
-Irritability
-Impulsive spending
-Anxiety
-Deppression
-More debt
As we start to explore this further we can begin to see how our feelings and thoughts around money impact our behaviour and our mental health. Are they truths or perceptions you've accepted without question? Challenging these narratives can open doors to new possibilities.
Set Realistic and Personal Goals
Instead of aiming for perfection, set achievable goals that align with your personal values and circumstances. Go straight to SMART and use it as a guide. SPECIFIC, MEASURABLE, ATTAINABLE, REALISTIC, TIME. Lets consider eating out as an example. If i ate out five days a week, is it realistic for me to say "im not eating out ever again"? Or would a realistic if i said ill eat out twice a week instead?
Build Routines Gradually
Incorporate budgeting into your routine in a way that feels manageable. Once everypay cycle is a good start. Try to lock in budgeting a few days prior to getting paid on consistent days if you can. For example, if I get paid on Wednesday, I would do my budget on Monday. I would then implement that budget on the day that I got get paid
Seek Support
You don't have to navigate this journey alone. Consider talking to friends, family, or professionals who can offer guidance and encouragement. Remember that we offer affordable financial coaching, and we are happy to assist you. Additionally, you can also reach out to charity organisations such as St. Vincent de Paul, Anglicare and Salvation Army which offer free financial advocacy and counselling if you are in crisis.
Final Thoughts
📌 Budgeting isn’t just about numbers—it’s about reclaiming control over your life and well-being. It’s interesting how something so straightforward can carry so much emotional weight and psychological resistance.
💡 Remember, change is a journey:
✔️ Every small step moves you forward.
✔️ Understanding the psychology behind budgeting is already progress.
✔️ Be patient with yourself—growth takes time.
🌱 Nurture your progress:
🔹 Keep an open mind.
🔹 Step out of your own way.
🔹 Believe in yourself: I can do this!
🚀 With persistence and self-compassion, you’ll find your way forward. Keep going—you’ve got this!
