Why I Don’t Like Budgeting?

At first, I didn’t like budgeting. I hated it—until I understood why. It felt restrictive, just like dieting. I’ve never been a fan of controlled diets; I want to eat what I like, when I like, and as much as I like. I jokingly say that I’m on a “see-food” diet—I eat whenever I see food.

For many people, the word "budget" triggers the same reaction as the word "diet." It sounds like a financial disease, something that limits your freedom and takes away all the fun in life.

Think about the first time you tried to create a budget. What was on your list? Most likely, it included essentials like food, rent, utility bills, and other basic needs. Did it look like a financial plan that sucked all the joy out of your life? That’s how I felt at first.

But here’s the thing—budgeting doesn’t have to be about eliminating the things you love. Instead, it’s about measured spending, ensuring that your money works for you rather than against you. When I shifted my perspective, budgeting became less of a burden and more of an exciting, empowering tool.

When I first started budgeting, I made the mistake of focusing only on needs and excluding anything fun. No dining out, no travel, no treats—just the bare necessities. But as I refined my approach, I realized that a successful budget should also include room for enjoyment. Life is meant to be lived, after all.

Budgeting is a trial-and-error process. No plan is perfect, and unexpected expenses will always arise. You’ll need to adjust along the way, just as you would with any other goal. And that’s okay. The key is to stay flexible and keep refining your plan until it works seamlessly for you.

Eventually, budgeting becomes second nature. Once you master the process, it feels effortless. And the best part? The reward isn’t just financial stability—it’s freedom. You’re in control of your money, rather than letting your money control you. That’s a powerful shift and one that can transform your entire approach to life and finances.

So if you’ve been resisting budgeting, I encourage you to give it another try. Think of it not as a restriction, but as a tool that allows you to enjoy life while securing your financial future. You might be surprised at how liberating it is.