To be honest, I try to divide it between necessities, future financial goals, personal enjoyment, and helping others.
The first thing I do is cover my essential expenses. These include rent, food, transportation, and other day-to-day necessities. I think it is important to take care of these basics before spending money anywhere else because they form the foundation of my monthly budget.
Once my essential expenses are covered, I look at my additional spending. This includes things like OTT subscriptions, gym fees, occasional outings, and other lifestyle expenses. I enjoy going out once in a while, and I do not mind spending on experiences that help me relax and enjoy life.
I also set aside some money for shopping. Whether it is clothing, footwear, accessories, or something useful I need, I like having a separate budget for those purchases rather than spending impulsively.
Another area that is important to me is investing. Currently, I have three SIPs, and I try to contribute to them regularly. I see investments as a way of preparing for the future rather than focusing only on the present. Even small, consistent investments can add up over time.
Apart from spending and investing, I also like to save a portion of my salary for charity. I sometimes contribute to an orphanage, and honestly, it is one of the most satisfying uses of money for me. Knowing that even a small contribution can help someone else makes me feel genuinely happy.
Of course, I do not make my budget so strict that I cannot enjoy small things. I always try to leave some room for those unexpected cravings, whether it is a late-night bowl of Maggi, an ice cream order, or one of those random Blinkit or Amazon purchases that somehow end up in the cart.
So, if I had to summarize it, I would say I try to balance my salary between necessities, investments, personal enjoyment, and giving back to others. That approach helps me enjoy the present while still planning for the future.
