How to Plan Your Best Money Month Yet
Introduction
If you’ve ever reached the end of the month and thought, “Where did all my money go?” — you’re not alone. The good news is that financial peace doesn’t happen by chance; it’s the result of intentional planning. With the right steps, you can create a money month that leaves you in control, motivated, and on track to reach your financial goals.
This guide will walk you step-by-step through planning your best money month yet — from setting goals and creating a budget, to tracking expenses and celebrating your wins.
Step 1: Review the Previous Month
Before you plan ahead, it’s important to look back.
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Check your bank statements — highlight areas where you overspent.
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Identify patterns — do you always overspend on food delivery, shopping, or subscriptions?
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Celebrate wins — maybe you saved more than expected, or avoided debt.
Tip: Use a money journal or apps like Mint, YNAB, or Monzo to review your spending habits.
Step 2: Define Your Monthly Money Goals
A “money month” works best when it has direction. Set SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).
Examples:
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Save £300 towards your emergency fund.
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Pay off £200 of debt.
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Invest 10% of your income.
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Stick to a £250 grocery budget.
Step 3: Create a Realistic Spending Plan
A budget isn’t about restriction — it’s about freedom.
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List all income sources (salary, side hustles, freelance work).
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Track fixed expenses (rent, utilities, insurance).
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Allocate flexible spending (food, entertainment, transport).
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Set aside “fun money” to avoid burnout.
Popular methods:
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50/30/20 Rule – 50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings.
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Zero-based budget – every pound has a purpose.
Step 4: Automate Savings and Bills
One of the best money hacks? Remove the temptation to spend.
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Automate transfers to savings or investments right after payday.
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Set up direct debits for bills to avoid late fees.
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Use “round-up” savings apps (Monzo, Revolut, Chime) to stash away extra cash.
Step 5: Plan for Known and Unknown Expenses
Nothing derails a money month like “surprise” spending.
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Known expenses: birthdays, subscriptions, car insurance.
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Unknown expenses: medical bills, car repairs, emergencies.
Solution → Create a sinking fund (mini savings pots for specific categories).
Step 6: Track Progress Weekly
Don’t wait until month-end to see how you did.
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Every Sunday, review your spending.
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Adjust if you’re overspending in one category.
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Use habit trackers or spreadsheets to stay accountable.
Step 7: Reward Yourself Without Breaking the Bank
Sticking to a money plan shouldn’t feel like punishment.
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Treat yourself with a low-cost reward (a coffee date, movie night, or new book).
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Track your progress visually (savings charts, debt payoff trackers).
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Share milestones with a trusted friend or online accountability group.
Step 8: Reflect and Reset
At the end of the month:
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Write down 3 wins and 3 lessons learned.
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Ask yourself: What will I do differently next month?
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Roll forward your goals.
This reflection keeps your financial journey sustainable.
FAQs About Planning a Money Month
1. How much should I save each month?
Aim for at least 20% of your income, but even 5–10% consistently makes a difference.
2. What if my income is irregular?
Base your budget on your lowest expected income, then treat extra money as a bonus for savings/debt.
3. How can I stay motivated?
Use visual trackers, celebrate small wins, and tie your money goals to life goals (e.g., saving for travel, financial freedom).
Conclusion
Planning your best money month yet is all about being proactive. When you set clear goals, automate savings, and track your progress, you’ll feel more confident and in control of your finances. Start small, stay consistent, and watch your money habits transform month after month.
👉 Ready to make this your best money month yet? Start by setting just one goal today — whether it’s saving £50, paying down debt, or tracking your weekly spending. Small steps add up to big change.
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