Tips and tricks to spend without guilt. How do you do it? There are many expenses such as ‘needs’ that don’t attract guilt. They may cause anxiety but the thing is that we need them ….. right? That’s the big question.

Knowing the difference between needs and wants and making wise choices. Shelter and food are necessities although what we spend may vary greatly. Dictated by income, preferences and desire, a weekly food bill may be quite different for you and your neighbour.

Keeping your minimum expenses as low as possible can give you more flexibility. If less of your income is required, you have more choices with the remainder of your cash. For example, sharing an apartment with a friend and keeping your rent low may allow you to save a down payment to buy your own place in a few years.

Budget for indulgences. If you like to shop, travel or eat out but realize you spend more than you ‘should’. Budget for it so that you can enjoy it without guilt. Recognize that you may have to choose between weekend shopping sprees and buying your lunch every day.

If you lack the discipline and your spending is getting you in trouble, protect yourself by leaving your cards and cash at home, return items you don’t need and shop with a list. Another trick is to put something on hold for 24 hours rather than buying it right away. Do you really need it?