Money Management Steps 6-7: Eliminating a "Monthly Cash SHORTFALL"
Cash Shortfalls are no fun, but it's usually possible to fix this problem quickly; and it's important that you do! There are three ways to attack this problem:
Earn more money each month
Spend less money each month
Earn more money and spend less money each month
Some ways to earn more money are to work more hours, get paid more for the same hours, or find a job that pays more than your current job.
There are *lots” of ways to save money and the more you try, the better you get at it. Here is a random list of ways to save money. Maybe these ideas will help you think of even more.
Cancel a subscription you don’t really need (e.g. Netflix)
Drink water instead of a soft drink when you eat out
Make coffee at home instead of going to Starbucks
Stop purchasing things you want, but can’t afford
If you must buy something new, try shopping at a Thrift Store
Avoid purchasing gifts you can’t afford
Try substituting free activities (e.g. hiking, walking by a lake, picnics, libraries, biking, community concerts) for more expensive activities (e.g. expensive concerts, movie theaters, shopping)
Make gifts (great ideas on Pinterest) instead of buying them
Here's a humorous take on your situation (and how to improve it):