7 ways to track debt payoff or money saving goals! (cheap or free!) MOTIVATION

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  • Опубліковано 29 лис 2024

КОМЕНТАРІ • 130

  • @BudgetGirl
    @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому +5

    Get spreadsheet and printable tracking charts in my etsy shop here: www.etsy.com/shop/BudgetGirlGoods (Use code "F2020" for 15% off!)

  • @pollygiblin8311
    @pollygiblin8311 3 роки тому +4

    I discovered you when you did your debt free scream on the Dave Ramsey show. I went back and watched most of your videos because I was so impressed with your accomplishment and how you approached it. I appreciate your transparency and your willingness to share!

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому

      That is awesome! thanks for watching!

  • @tiffanysurowiak9916
    @tiffanysurowiak9916 3 роки тому +1

    I just found your channel today and have binge watched for hours. You are officially my favorite UA-camr of all time. THANK YOU for making these videos and keeping it real. You get me stoked to save.

  • @xDoubleJOx
    @xDoubleJOx 3 роки тому +15

    You could buy some frames for your finished trackers and hang them like certificates. I think that could elevate the look and shows how proud you are :)
    Or whenever they get to be too many, copy them and print them in a smaller size and than put them in a nice frame 🖼️🙂

  • @operalove7221
    @operalove7221 3 роки тому +13

    Yep, I remember the balance total on your UA-cam videos. It was a great visual. And a very transparent gesture from you on your journey 😊

  • @jazzcbudgets
    @jazzcbudgets 3 роки тому +11

    I honestly thought you tracking your debt payoff in your titles was smart and innovative. No one else has done it and that’s why I followed you.

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому +1

      I'm so glad! thanks Jazz!

  • @PidasianHippie
    @PidasianHippie 3 роки тому +1

    I was one of those who loved seeing your debt payoff numbers in the titles of each of your videos. In fact, I even got concerned about your dedication when you slowed down in the weeks before your moved to Arkansas. Little did I know that you were working on "bigger and better" plans. It was very exciting to see you move to Arkansas where you kicked debt in its butt!

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому

      thanks for sticking with me!

  • @rochellethundercloud346
    @rochellethundercloud346 3 роки тому +9

    Track your spending!
    Know your triggers.
    Save receipts,bills,checks,money orders,warranties,leases,etc.

  • @rebeccafrye68
    @rebeccafrye68 3 роки тому

    Yes! I remember your debt pay off amounts on every video! I am actually re-watching a lot of your old videos to motivate myself to keep going and not give up ☺️ thanks for all the great content past, present and future!

  • @src4409
    @src4409 3 роки тому +2

    I did John commuta's system and just worked out the math. It usually works out that you're paying the smallest amount off first and working your way up. I really like your visual idea, but for whatever reason seeing a credit card paid off in 3 months and then putting all of that extra money into the next card and then the next and so on, was really satisfying.

  • @kellysmakeupbag
    @kellysmakeupbag 3 роки тому +3

    Sarah - you are so inspiring! I just paid off my student loans and I'm so excited! Last bit of credit card debt, here I come!

  • @bethdouglas4674
    @bethdouglas4674 3 роки тому

    I used the debt tracker to pay off debt when I paid off my credit cards. I used the chain method for my student loans. Both worked but I think the post-it note and calendar might be a better visual for my brain for the remainder of my saving and debt pay-off goals. I was listening to Jan from NYC saves money talk about starting a UA-cam channel. I feel like I do want to share with the world my mistakes to help others or maybe give humour during stressful times. Thank you for being an inspiration. I first heard of you from His and Her Money. I believe I started watching you shortly after you paid off your debt but have gone through many of your older videos since then.

  • @Clairelaferret
    @Clairelaferret 3 роки тому +2

    Do I remember the 'debt payoff titles'?! Giiiirl I remember the 5 digit debt payoff titles! You've come so far!

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому

      Heck yes Claire! I know you were there with me!

  • @jonnaborosky8836
    @jonnaborosky8836 3 роки тому

    My dear Budget Girl friend! As always, thank you for posting!
    1) I've used post it notes for non-financial goals.
    2) Have used a desk calendar so that was a visual reminder every time I sat down at my desk. So that my financial progress was more visible, I kept a second calendar for appointments, bill's due dates, etc.
    3) I've used plain ol' legal pads out on my desk, with a graph I drew on the pages. That's probably my favorite--plain, simple.
    4) Have made my own notebooks, custom divided up according to needs, wants, goals, savings, etc.
    5) With cash envelopes, I used an envelope for every category that wasn't auto drafted out of checking. I kept an index card in each envelope to track deposits each month and expenditures, so I could see st a glance where I was and as a motivator to see how each category could grow more than get dispersed. For example: I have a home repair fund that I add to each month. If I don't have any home repairs, that's a whole year's worth of savings I have saved, so that next year or in a year or two I'll have enough for bigger and bigger projects if they arise.
    6) I've drawn out my own budget and savings sheets and copied them for the year.
    7) This year I bought specific budget books (one for personal use and one for a non-profit organization I'm president/treasurer of. I do both budgeting and savings tracking in one book each.
    I've never used a spreadsheet because I've had computers fail to the point of non-recovery. I know if I backed up enough that wouldn't be a problem...but then I'd have to remember where the back up is..... As we get older, these things become more and more difficult. That's my excuse and I'm sticking to it....at least till I can do better! 😃
    I remember when you listed your debt pay off and balances with every video. It was a great motivator for me to see your progress. I thought it was both very brave of you and showed your integrity. I'm not sure I could have done that, but it helped me that you did. I've been working out debt pay off and savings plans for decades. Made my first envelope system when I first left home. Made my first debt pay off amortization table at about 21-22. That was before there were computers to do it for you--so I did it myself. Sorry...I usually end up writing near books....
    Love to you for all you do! ❤

  • @fatimaellis6539
    @fatimaellis6539 3 роки тому +1

    Yesssss! I was with you all the way...in fact you give me the motivation to keep it going on my own journal paying my student loan and my car...it took me around 4 years and your videos really keep me on track 👣

  • @2fixmj563
    @2fixmj563 3 роки тому

    Yes. I was with you in those days and I LOVED seeing the debt left numbers in your titles.

  • @ageisonlyanumber8334
    @ageisonlyanumber8334 3 роки тому

    I have been watching you since you had well over $30,000 in debt. I LOVED your debt number being in your title. Once I found you I went back and watch every one of your debt videos. You have much to be proud of in your own efforts, but also the excellent example you are providing to other young women and men.

  • @hi_midiacreative
    @hi_midiacreative 3 роки тому +4

    Consistency and a comfortable tracking method is the key to budgeting! Thank you for posting these options for us.

  • @skak9147
    @skak9147 3 роки тому

    I was with you in those days! It was highly satisfying to see your debt amount incrementally reducing each month. The progress you’ve made is inspirational!

  • @anitaroberts5980
    @anitaroberts5980 3 роки тому

    I found your channel when you were about six months into your DFJ I think. I definitely found it motivating to watch your progress as it helped me focus on my own. I too like spreadsheets. I have one file with a bunch of linked tabs that calculate various aspects of my financial life. It's awesome. I'm glad that you still make these videos because it's inspiring to see your success! Wishing you a very happy and prosperous new year, Sarah!

  • @dhines3804
    @dhines3804 3 роки тому

    I was with you when you were paying off debt and I remember being amazed at your numbers as you neared the end!

  • @HibiscusHigh
    @HibiscusHigh 3 роки тому +1

    Those debt number countdowns in your previous titles were the bomb!

  • @flourescent1690
    @flourescent1690 3 роки тому +3

    Yep I've been with you for about 3-4 years. So inspired by you and your journey. Xx

  • @lauriesell7934
    @lauriesell7934 3 роки тому +1

    Love your ideas! How I paid off my 15 year mortgage in seven years I had the bank print off my amortization schedule which showed my principal and my interest monthly. It motivated me if I received an additional $50 or $100 that month I would add more to the paying of the next month mortgage payment and in doing so I would save hundreds of dollars I kept the amortization schedule in clear sleeves in a leather binder and would look at it often. I would know my payoff amount each month. I have now lived debt-free for 18 years including the last house I purchased I paid cash.

  • @christinegreen3974
    @christinegreen3974 3 роки тому +1

    Great tips! I'm tackling student loan debt from my PhD. BTW, red is such a beautiful color for you - love the glasses. And I've been with you since the beginning of your channel. I remember those titles with what was left to pay on your debt. Love to see where you are now!

  • @dollardog6349
    @dollardog6349 3 роки тому

    Great little tips and all easy for anyone to follow along, nice video! 🐶

  • @kyliemunday
    @kyliemunday 3 роки тому +1

    You have done an amazing job on you finances and your new home. Merry Christmas and a prosperous new year.

  • @gettintherejanice6216
    @gettintherejanice6216 3 роки тому +1

    yes I was there loved the count down it drew me to watch more of your videos I think I was very excited to watch the numbers go down. it also helped me when I had to take UA-cam breaks to find in the right order date is harder to find

  • @reneerangihuna8690
    @reneerangihuna8690 3 роки тому

    I've used spreadsheets for years to track my budget and savings goals but I've never achieved full debt free or savings goals so I might try a different option! I'm bad at sticking to the budgets when it comes to my DI and I'd like to make a change as I'm hoping to buy a house soon

  • @stickyteal5241
    @stickyteal5241 3 роки тому

    I started a little over a year ago and am using the debt free charts. I printed one for each debt and stacked them in order and they eventually came to live on the fridge. the last two are looking pretty beat up lol. stained and crinkled. I love it though

  • @sandrafromscotland
    @sandrafromscotland 3 роки тому

    Thanks Sarah. 💙 Visual Progress trackers. You're so creative 👏 I like yours going left to right & the calendar is a good one. Yes I remember seeing it on your videos & it was good to see it going down. 😊 What works, works 😂

  • @lynh7845
    @lynh7845 3 роки тому

    I love Excel and used a spreadsheet to make a graph to visualise our progress. Works well so long as you will check it!

  • @bruce5895
    @bruce5895 3 роки тому +1

    Tip # 16 for saving your money, are you tired of paying for high cable bills, well your could always try an indoor antenna, the best rated one on the market is called Mohu ReLeaf HD, but make sure your within 25 miles of a tv tower to get a reception.

  • @carolw4506
    @carolw4506 3 роки тому

    I'm relatively new to finding your channel, Sarah, but I'm always happy to see a new video from you. Great tips for all "types" of people because our motivations definitely don't all work the same. I'm definitely using your spreadsheets, but I may try one of the visuals (probably the stickies) for 2021. Happy New Year to you 💗!! And thanks for the content!

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому

      I'm so glad! You gotta do what works for you! good luck on your progress!

  • @carolynfortier5521
    @carolynfortier5521 3 роки тому +1

    I have been with you since the beginning. ❤ I love all your videos.

  • @SingleLadyFinance
    @SingleLadyFinance 3 роки тому +3

    The chain link breaking is so metaphorical. As always, love your channel.

  • @yasminduque8508
    @yasminduque8508 3 роки тому

    OG subscriber here! From the early days, and I finally got the courage to start my own YT channel. Love all these tips!

  • @rachelcarter2443
    @rachelcarter2443 3 роки тому +1

    I color my mortgage payoff tracker in rainbow colors. I do ten thousand chunks so its moves at a more satisfying pace.

  • @EricaWallace
    @EricaWallace 3 роки тому

    Thank you for sharing such great content! Random question where did you get your white bookshelves from? Are they ikea and if so which ones?

  • @MadeleineLJNorman
    @MadeleineLJNorman 3 роки тому

    Gonna do the paper chain one for a downpayment for my future house buying! Also yes I remember those debt numbers going down. Loved it

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому

      whoo! and i hope the chain inspires you!

  • @elizabethstamler9242
    @elizabethstamler9242 3 роки тому

    i was with you when you had the debt amount in the title! just bought the beginner bundle... maybe a visual tool will help me save more :)

  • @rachelcarter2443
    @rachelcarter2443 3 роки тому +1

    I was with you. It was so helpful

  • @leslieyoung3268
    @leslieyoung3268 3 роки тому

    Another great video Sarah! Thanks for the inspiration...

  • @DearDebt
    @DearDebt 3 роки тому +2

    Love these ideas! Thanks for sharing ❤️

  • @heatherb2307
    @heatherb2307 3 роки тому

    Fun ideas! I made a simple spreadsheet in Microsoft Word, printed it out, and tracked my payoff with that. It was super motivating to see my progress on that and then to finally mark that I was finally debt free!

  • @doodleacademy
    @doodleacademy 3 роки тому

    Another helpful video...thank you for sharing :)

  • @julieall_is_good90
    @julieall_is_good90 3 роки тому

    I was with you in those days and I liked that you put your debt number in the video. ❤️

  • @artofthebudget
    @artofthebudget 3 роки тому

    i was around for the debt number in the video title and i loved it. i have definitely seen smaller channels do it inspired by you.

  • @Sheila-ru1iu
    @Sheila-ru1iu 3 роки тому +1

    Absolutely loving your videos! Happy Holidays!

  • @melodiev9253
    @melodiev9253 3 роки тому

    I bought the exact same calendar from Target yesterday!

  • @budgetrebelgoals
    @budgetrebelgoals 3 роки тому +1

    Happy holidays!

  • @efleig17
    @efleig17 3 роки тому

    Hello, your page was recommended to me. Looking for insight on paying down a hefty amount of student loan debt while balancing saving for a down payment as well (and my rent costs as much as a mortgage!) which videos of yours do you recommend for this? Thanks in advance!

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому +1

      Check out my beginner's playlist and my debt payoff one! Welcome!

  • @MissJuliesMontessoriMinutes
    @MissJuliesMontessoriMinutes 3 роки тому

    Yes, the left to right jives with my brain too!

  • @budgetrebelgoals
    @budgetrebelgoals 3 роки тому +1

    Awesome. Thanks for this!!

  • @maggiegodoy7012
    @maggiegodoy7012 3 роки тому

    yes, I was with you and love it seen going down

  • @cassandraniss6583
    @cassandraniss6583 3 роки тому +1

    Yes! I was watching your videos when you put your debt totals on them. 😃

  • @budgetrebelgoals
    @budgetrebelgoals 3 роки тому

    I was with you from the beginning. Proud of you. There are a couple that do the debt total in the title now. I want to as well.

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому

      how cool! If you remember who please tell me, i'd love to support them!

  • @imma_cat
    @imma_cat 3 роки тому

    I think I’m a post-it girl. My consumer debt will be gone in March and then I start to hack at my $19.8k in student loans. I would love to see that number go down on a post-it under my monitor every month. Thanks Sarah!

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому +1

      Yay Cara! I hope it helps motivate you!

  • @lisaschreiber2893
    @lisaschreiber2893 3 роки тому +4

    F2020 I could not have said it better!

  • @Hendricana
    @Hendricana 3 роки тому

    I love post its. Definitely going to start tracking my mortgage balance

  • @Iriateayuda
    @Iriateayuda 3 роки тому

    Yessss! I remember those times when I was expecting your new video to see your new number!!! ❤️❤️❤️

  • @kristinshutt6355
    @kristinshutt6355 3 роки тому

    I loved the amount in the titles! Especially when you were getting close to the end

  • @lynmorris3453
    @lynmorris3453 3 роки тому

    I remember the totals in the video titles. It is something I'm considering doing when I start my own youtube for accountability reasons.

  • @MariaAndersenCrypto
    @MariaAndersenCrypto 3 роки тому +1

    😁👍🏻 Happy holidays!🎄

  • @joshuacormier7155
    @joshuacormier7155 3 роки тому +1

    I was with you in those days!

  • @mrsbs7146
    @mrsbs7146 3 роки тому +1

    I’m completely opposite when it comes to coloring in the charts. They actually give me anxiety :/ When I was saving for my emergency fund, seeing my balance get bigger motivated me.

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому

      Glad you know what works and doesn't for you! It's so important!

  • @marilynortega-barba6508
    @marilynortega-barba6508 3 роки тому

    Love ur videos ❤ i feel like we will always be on debt. Im starting to be ok with it

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому

      I'm glad you enjoy my videos!

  • @Hankandrex
    @Hankandrex 3 роки тому

    Hey BG! I found you during your Dave Ramsey debt free scream all that time ago!

  • @debbiemabrey9240
    @debbiemabrey9240 3 роки тому

    A debt payoff coloring thermometer and writing how much I owe at the end of the month on the bottom of my monthly calendar works for me. Been here a few years.

  • @aliciag9365
    @aliciag9365 3 роки тому

    Yep...totally remember the debt amounts in your video titles.

  • @lindascales7485
    @lindascales7485 3 роки тому

    Very impressive 👍

  • @amberhill2588
    @amberhill2588 3 роки тому

    Envelopes for debt write down the balance after a payment is made and envelopes saving for yearly bills.

  • @robynkurdek4873
    @robynkurdek4873 3 роки тому +1

    I was with you in the debt countdown days!! I loved seeing you triumph over your debt! You’re such an inspiration!! 💖😘

  • @abowling5759
    @abowling5759 3 роки тому +2

    Think I’ll try the sticky notes to track paying off debt

  • @austenlady2160
    @austenlady2160 3 роки тому +1

    I’m new here. Great job with all you have accomplished. Very cute.

  • @teresanorris4769
    @teresanorris4769 3 роки тому

    We paid off $9307.44 in 2020. Wasn’t easy as a large family. My goal is $10,000 this year. We will see how things work out. If we have to buy a car that won’t be obtainable.

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому

      That is fantastic Teresa! Best of luck on your goals! i'm rooting for you!

  • @SeaJay_Oceans
    @SeaJay_Oceans 3 роки тому

    Spend Less, Earn More, live debt free - it is a great feeling to have positive net worth ! :-)

  • @donewithdebt4696
    @donewithdebt4696 3 роки тому +3

    I was with you during your debt payoff (negative amounts) videos. It was very motivating to see your number become smaller and smaller.
    Maybe now in this new stage of our financial journey, you could put your positive network in your UA-cam videos. We saw your numbers reduce, it’d be wonderful to see your numbers grow!!!

    • @nancyasberry8458
      @nancyasberry8458 3 роки тому +1

      She actually does already do that positive net worth in some of her videos.
      Here's one: ua-cam.com/video/TfYwoY1Bz_0/v-deo.html

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому +1

      Thank you Nancy! and yes @done with debt! You can check out net worth updates for continued progress!

    • @nancyasberry8458
      @nancyasberry8458 3 роки тому

      @@BudgetGirl you're welcome.

  • @Monique0322
    @Monique0322 3 роки тому

    I was with you back in the day when had your debt amount in the comments.

    • @Monique0322
      @Monique0322 3 роки тому

      The financial freedom diary track her debt in the title also.

    • @kimwalker9581
      @kimwalker9581 3 роки тому

      I have a mirror on the back of my bedroom door. I use a dry erase marker and list all debts with the new balances after each payment. It works for me.

    • @BudgetGirl
      @BudgetGirl  3 роки тому

      That's awesome kim!

  • @Hendricana
    @Hendricana 3 роки тому

    I remember that number going down

  • @kaitlinobrien243
    @kaitlinobrien243 3 роки тому

    🎄🎄🎄

  • @eliandeacon7241
    @eliandeacon7241 3 роки тому

    Awesome 😍💋 💝💖♥️❤️

  • @reecedennis9188
    @reecedennis9188 3 роки тому

    Very nice 😍💋 💝💖♥️❤️

  • @aydenfranco8889
    @aydenfranco8889 3 роки тому

    Really nice 👌 😍💋 💝💖❤️