I would personally really appreciate seeing these videos every month / bi-weekly! It’s super motivating and relevant to me (I’m a freelancer too), and it feels like we are all on the same journey - through all the monotony and tediousness that comes with budgeting. Not to mention, it is clear that a lot of things come along unexpectedly month to month. Would love to hear your thoughts, feelings, hardships and successes through the months. During months when things are super consistent/“boring”, there are so many related topics you could explore alongside your budget plan, such as: chatting about hardships & setbacks, successes, what it’s like to have a partner who is not on the same program (I assume), other ways you’re earning more money, other ways you’re saving money (doing your own nails for example), a trip to the grocery store with you, meal prep budget planning and meal prep planning in general, etc. Some people have fitness buddies, this feels like having a budget / financial diet buddy. Thanks for being super honest, real, and for motivating my ass to get my shit together. 👌🏼
PS Dave Ramsey’s daughter, Rachel Cruze, uses clips instead of envelopes as well. PPS Haven’t started yet, but have been checking out weekly grocery store flyers to see what promos/deals they have on - including Whole Foods. Might be a good practice to help with meal planning.
Extremely interested in the budgeting with a partner. How do you work through when one is super committed and the other doesn't get the necessity? I'm not living with someone yet but I'd love to hear the conversation and gain perspective on how others make it work
ISITVAINTOSAYIMPRETTY If not this exact format, at least the wins and fails aspect. Pictures of your meals/prep/grocery hauls would be a nice addition.
Monthly budget videos would be great!!! Similar to what others have said, it is very motivating for us viewers to see your progress with budgeting. We are all in the same boat and we need to make smarter financial decisions especially in this economy. These videos are so raw and real and I enjoy every second of it!
Please keep doing this! It also helps keep me on track! I don't know if making the video is tedious for you but I really love this series! This makes me incredibly hopeful for a $olid 2018. I really don't wanna dance now, I just wanna make money moves D:
This budget videos are making me stick to my budget no matter if you make 1000 or 10000 a month we all can learn from this . I would love to keep watching more videos about this budgeting like I said it motivates me . And I need to know what you cook for your dogs and what you eat and how you meal prep
Hi everyone! A couple things: 1) Thank you, as always, for your helpful comments. It not only helps me but everyone else who clicks on this video. 2) I'll shoot my meal prep video once I get it down, until then - Gaz Oakley is who's recipes I've followed.th-cam.com/video/DuIUssE9BF4/w-d-xo.html 3) Yes to all the video suggestions.
Aja I signed up last year for a credit union, and I'm all about that CU life now. I wish I had signed up earlier, because I earn more interest on one account in a month than I did all year with Chase on multiple accounts. Another thing, we were looking at car loans last year, and the credit union rate was 2.75 percent, whereas the dealership offered 4.25, big difference. If you're unsure about them because of location, I'd consider moving the accounts you don't touch as much into a credit union so that you're not consistently heading to a shady area. Anyway, thank you for posting these videos, I found you from your first budget video and I'm subscribed now. You're definitely a breath of fresh air on YT. Keep up the good work. Oh, and if you made a video about TJ/Costco I'd totally watch it.
Thank you for being open with your finances. We are always told not to talk about money but a number people struggle with personal finances or simply not taught how to manage budgets. Good on you for being open!
I love your videos!! I’m a Personal Banker & yet I still find that it’s so much easier to talk about budgeting, but in regards to putting that talk into action is another story! I love what you’re doing and how raw you are with your viewers! ♥️
PLEASE continue doing this every month! It is super refreshing to see someone on youtube being so honest and genuine. I think it will be a good way to motivate a lot of people to stay on track about budgeting especially the millennials : )
Aja, you’re not only getting your shit together but helping me get rid of my debt too! Pls post regular videos so I can learn some tips and tricks from you too. I know it’s only January but it would be especially helpful when you start budgeting in *presents for friends and family, *going out/drinking budget and *holidays too. Would love to see a meal plan video as I do the same! So glad I found you in December, probably the most honest vlogger on TH-cam 😘
yes yes yes! Please keep these coming! Trying to pay off student debt and other debt is haaaard and its so refreshing to see a youtuber talk about this stuff rather than indirectly encourage me to spend my money on things I don't need
omg Im loving this! thank you for showing us a practical way of managing finances and unexpected finances. I really liked the bobby pin method, but I find that I just use my debit card for most of my expenses. That way I can keep track of how much I spend.
👏 to meal planning and meal prep! There will always be days some meals turn out and some meals don’t, but that’s how you figure out what not to make in the future. It’s great how you show your budget, because it helps a lot of people see that bills need to come first, money that needs to go towards necessities, even factoring the entertainment/fun money, extra unexpected expenses can occur and seeing what is left over.
I admire that you are doing a budget, it helps a lot. The envelope system, as I understand it, does work. You leave the envelopes at home, put the money in them for your bills. When you are ready to pay the bills, take the money out and then pay the bills. Everyone I saw use this system used it this way. they did not carry the envelopes around. It is there so that you know you have the money to pay the bill at hand!
I think you should do it once a month a quick recap of your meal preps, first half and second half of the month, wins, and fails and how you are preparing for the next month. I am excited to see your journey and watch you pay off those loans!!!
I want to see you do your budget every month because it is like having a friend that is committed to ACTIVELY DOING the budget in real time, which is better than just merely listening to good advice. You are the only one that is taking the time to model this personal finance project so we can learn from your mistakes and copy what you do successfully. Its like having a finance partner, and this relationship requires accountability with yourself and to us, your fans. Lol
I love this bimonthly series. It also keeps me motivated and on track. I also believe it makes us viewers feel more connected to you as a TH-camr with your reality financial goals, plans, and situation that unexpected stuff sometimes come up. Keep up the great work!
Totally downgrade the Chase account. I have my personal account and my main business account with Chase and I don't pay any fees. I also rarely order checks because I pay everything online. There is no way you should pay $25 a month for an account. No way! Great video and thanks for sharing.
I love how real you are about your financial life/journey. So many people on youtube, and social media in general, make me feel like I'm the only one struggling sometimes, but you keep it real. You inspired me to budget on your first video and I struggled trying to stick with it... but I really want to get it down!!
I would love to see this regularly! I've just started budgeting and it's SO refreshing to watch your videos and see the actual process, real figures and real talk, instead of hidden numbers and imagined scenarios. Please keep the budget videos coming!
Thank you! I started to pay off my credit card debt last month. But now your videos have inspired me to have a more rewarding plan. I too have high grad student loan debt and can’t wait to pay off…so I can have more to show for my family…my 10 year old son. Thank you!
Be proud girl! Your doing a great job and hopefully motivating the rest of us. I started actually writing my monthly budget and expenses this past month after seeing your post 2 weeks ago. I am looking for areas to "trim" the fat from my monthly expenses and trying to spend less on things like cosmetic's and crap of which I have enough. I would love to see this series on a regular basis if you can, especially to see the ups and downs, which is what life is about.
The Bi-Weekly updates are great and you should keep doing them! They're very interesting I feel like they give us an update every two weeks on where our own financial status is.
I’m watching this in January 2021 because I’m also building my emergency fund (EF) and paying off debt (family’s) this year. I’m doing them both at the same time because of the pandemic and I saw your advice to prioritize EF. I need someone to do this with so I will watch your budget with me videos every month so I’ll feel like I’m doing it with you! Thank you Aja! You’re my inspiration and role model! Love from the Philippines. Stay safe, you and Brian! 💖
No, please continue these bi-monthly budget videos. I have bern about tracking my expenses for the paste few years but I suck making a budget and sticking it. You definitely inspire and motivate me to stick to mine
Really loving these budget videos as I’ve also just started doing detailed budgets over the past few months and it’s really made a big difference. Would love to see a video with a breakdown of your income/sources cause you’re rocking it with $8000 income in a single fortnight.
Continue the bi-monthly schedule, it motivates me to do mine as well! As for credit unions, I can't go back. I have a pretty solid interest rate and CD account, and I don't get crazy fees. The downside is that it's a 30-minute drive to my closest ATM so I always have to take out more cash than I need (but that also means I'm conscious about my spending).
please yes every month! because even though budgets remain situations in life area always changing each month, you honestly of going over and how you handle keeps me accountable with my budget
I'm rooting for you girl. I LOVE your commitment, self-accountability, realistic expectations, and no apologies on what makes you happy. I myself will spend crazy money on my cat because it makes me happy but will walk 2 miles instead of getting a Lyft Line or spending the $2.25 using public transit.
Please do it every month. Watching you do your budget makes me think about my own budget. You inspired me to actually sit down and tally up my numbers.
Please keep the budget videos because every month is a new plan but life never exactly goes according to plan. Its motivating me on my own journey as well. I went back to USC CU but I also bank online with Captial One 360. It's a great bank for the Dave Ramsey plan because you can create multiple savings accounts as "sinking funds." For example, you may want to set aside money into savings account for Christmas gifts, upcoming travel plans, auto insurance renewal, car maintenance, etc. Sinking funds have become a huge help for helping me not break my budget. Great job and fight on!!!! ✌️
So far, I've loved the two videos of your monthly budget series you've done. I can see where your concern is about it becoming mundane and repetitive. The idea of like "POPING UP" and doing updates of when you've payed stuff off sounds like a good idea because quite frankly, these videos inspire me to keep disciplined in paying off my debt and reworking my budget and all that jazz so thank you for that. Or if you ever have new updates or you somehow reformat your budget with other tricks is another idea too. Thanks for being so open !!
I love my credit union. I’ve been with them for 6 years and it’s great. There’s no fees and they’re super helpful. However, unless you’re going to a fairly big changes credit union, it can be a hassle. It just depends on the area you live in. I’d love to see a budget video any time there’s major changes to see how you move your money around when it’s freed up from another payment!
I dropped my gym membership, best thing I've done. I've invested into my own home gym stuff. Fyi what helps with auto insurance is to change your deductibles. Increase them if you can. It saves you some cash.
Yes, please continue. Watching your videos helps me stay on track. When I first started keeping track with my budget, I would get mad at myself if I went over in a category. Many times I wanted to give up because it was too stressful and depressing to see my failure with money. After a few months and a lot of silent motivation from videos, I am still learning how to control my budget. thanks and keep up the hard work.
Aja you don't know how much I needed these budget videos and your honest experience with the difficult task. I've recently been overwhelmed with all the recent bills that I need to pay for this month and you're organization tips have saved me! Thank you!!!!
I LOVE this series!! But you’re right because it’s going to be pretty much the same thing I would do pops of it. Every two or three months and/or when something really different happens like the dentist expense and when you hit any milestones or discovered anything new you think we should apply to our budgets. I started budgeting right after your first video. Also a video on how to keep in budget with groceries, specifically healthy foods would be awesome. I need to stop spending so much money in Whole Foods. Thanks!!! Keep up the great work!!!
My boyfriend has the same problem with his jaw but luckily his insurance covers it and I hope for you too !!! You inspire me to budget every month because I’m trying to be more responsible in 2018 and you are my biggest inspiration 💪 much Love
I started going grey in college & once I reached 25 it was really noticeable. I got my grandma's high Cherokee cheekbones, but I also got her premature grey. 😞 It's worth it to me to budget for highlights & nice hair products to help everything blend in. I think of it as a beauty, business, relationship & mental health expense, bc going grey when you're young & single is just not ok! I'd love videos on healthy meals & food options @ TJ! And/or healthy meal prep videos? I love these videos, so if you don't mind, keep them coming!
love love love this series!! please don't stop lol it's very motivating. newly grad student with a crap ton of student loans lol. I also am looking into a switching from CHASE to a credit union. will check back to see tips that others have posted lol. loving your budgeting content. Girl don't even bother with the haters, you're motivating others to get it together and I appreciate these vids soo so much my dear xx
I personally love these every month!! Really motivates me to budget bi-weekly and I think it’ll be great to motivate you to continue budgeting and progress throughout the year!!
Yes! Please keep doing this every month it motivates me to get my finances together too! You’re better off downgrading your checking account to the free one. I’d stay away from credit unions particularly bc of the inconvenience in ATMs.
Yes, please continue! It is so helpful! Most videos encourage spending I find your budgeting inspiring and they help me spend less and budget more. Especially helpful to me because I freelance/contract and never have a set pay. PLEASE keep it up. :)
I appreciate how open you are about money and budgeting, I love watching these videos they're so helpful and motivating. I'm trying to learn more about money/finances and I'm really rooting for you!! You can do it!!
I try to budget and save, so I really enjoy these videos. I always try to learn something new. I try to live on $200 biweekly, buying only groceries and gas, then put the rest in savings.
For you lock jaw. I had the same problem instead of jumping into the expensive mouth piece. Use the sports one you can get at any sporting goods place. Boil it for a few seconds then once its a little cool put it in out mouth and suck in, then you'll have a custom mouth piece. Wear it at night it will help. And avoid eating chewy stuff. You can all so google some exercises you can do for TMJ and it really helps. It completely took mine away. Good luck!
Please continue! I've been using the Dave Ramsey Debt Snowball method as well and I love hearing about other's progress! My friends and I are in a group for financial freedom so these help keep me motivated as well! I also use excel but also you can use the everydollar app! basically making sure all of your money is accounted for somewhere - maybe not all of it is spent but all of it is allocated, so that cushion you need because you're freelance would go into a savings/emergency fund etc whatever you need!
i like how you change around your system instead of continuing with the envelopes aja! it's good that you're showing us how to be flexible and adapt to your needs as you go!
Hi Aja! I would switch to a Schwab or an Ally bank account (AKA online bank). They don't have a monthly fee AND you can take out money from any ATM and they reimburse the fee. Loving that you're taking initiative on your budgeting, especially the meal planning. That's key for cutting costs in my monthly budget! Good Luck!
I love love love how transparent and real you are especially with these budgets / it is crazy helpful to see how you go through all of it up front!! 💕💕
I just found you this morning because you were talking about David Ramsey and OMG i relate so much. I am going be paying my student loans pretty soon and I am terrify. Your videos so far are keeping me accountable for budgeting and gives me ideas too
I'm enjoying this! I'll tune in for bi-monthly updates. I'd say stick with the big banks, just downgrade towards a basic consumer account. Credit unions are awesome if they are convenient for you. Typically, they are recommend because if you ever run into a financial issue/clerical error, credit unions will typically solve the problem faster and with less fuss. But if you move around the city a lot of need access to ATMs without fees, then it sounds like convenience wins. Finally, well done putting that 2k towards debt!
I think this is so helpful. I live in southern California too and our income and expenses are so similar. It is crazy to think that there are people in California who make minimum wage and have to survive through the inflation. I think that was a wake up call for me to think that I make so much more but I'm not able to save any money. Thank you for the budgeting tips!
Credit unions are 100% the way to go! I paid $20 for checks several years ago and got like 1,000 checks which I've used maybe 50 of. I've never paid any other fees, ever. So totally a better option for your money!
I just found you today when I searched a night skincare routine! And subscribed and this video popped up! Since you asked...I think an update on your budget would be helpful, touching base like you began this video -- of what worked, what you've learned, tips and tricks that you figured out in saving. I'm so happy to find you!
Please continue with this topic. Seeing it on paper & you sharing actuals with us is motivation. Certain YT’ers are OA. Life is not perfect. You’re very refreshing to watch. Love that you can get down and be real. Feels like watching a bestie. BTW... Why do you not have at least double of your subbies? You have a balance of great content that appeals to anyone. Sorry long post ✌️
I appreciate the updated, part 2 version of the budget! I would love to see some of the recipes that you are talking about - I do a lot of vegan cooking as well. ALSO, as I understand, Bravecto can be really harsh on dog's systems, so our vet suggested using it only every now and then (2 times per year) and then using a more gentle treatment in between. Of course, ask your vet about that, but by doing that we have saved a lot of money and our pup is still flea and tick free!
Thanks for the budgeting videos. It keeps me accountable to my own budget! Whether or not you keep doing them monthly, just know the two you posted have helped me!
Love the budget videos! I've started my journey to paying off my debt this year too. Wishing you the best in your debt repayment journey! In regards to credit unions, I've actually worked for a credit union for over 5 years + now. Credit unions are more customer/member based and less sales driven, so fees and such are much lower, competitive loan rates as well if you care for loans. Plus they don't usually charge you for your accounts, I won't say they all don't but most of them don't have a monthly fee. You expressed concerns for ATMs near you, most credit unions are within the CO-OP network and it has over 30k ATM nationwide that you can use surcharge free. LA, OC, and SD are very great areas to have a credit union because they're so widely available, and most of the time you can find a shared branch within a few miles (which is a credit union you can use for deposit/withdrawal services even if it's not your actual credit union). Do your research and you can find a lot of great credit unions out there. Some will be open to the public and some are family/friends only. I've had Chase before but I've since consolidated all my accounts to my credit union, although they're convenience, I find I can do a lot of my banking just fine thru my credit union. They also allow me to have multiple accounts to manage my money, I can have a house fund, car fund, pet fund, bills, etc. accounts all on one account, no extra fees!
Great that you are doing the dog food yourself now. (Have to do that too because my dog is allergic to all processed food). Just keep in mind that you probably have to supplement their food. Trying to balance calcium, protein, Vitamins (and so on) is very complicated. I tried it for some time but in the long run I did not have enough time to calculate everything in her diet. Now I am supplementing her food and can relax a lot more.
thank you for being so transparent! as someone just getting started with budgeting, it was awesome to see someone actually practicing what they preach.
Aja I loved the video. I enjoyed the break down and discussion of each expense and what you learned and would do different. Also like that you take into account what your subscribers are suggesting and discussing whether it was helpful or not. I am a single mother with two children and I am in the process of clearing out debt (including student loans) and budgeting to get in a place to purchase a home. This video was super helpful and think it could benefit a lot of people. Keep up the good work!!
I think making these types of videos helps to keep you accountable...and is a motivator others. Downgrade the Chase and cut the gym. Credit unions tend to have higher interest rates so I would look into them. Love the idea of the Trader Joe's and Costco video! Thanks for sharing!
Loving this series! I'd love to see you continue this monthly or every other month. Your original videos on budgeting actually inspired me to focus more on paying off my student loans. Since then I've checked out Dave Ramsay, started budgeting, and made paying off my student loans a priority for this year and next year!
It really motivates me to stay on track for my budget watching your budget videos. But I think it should be done every 2 months or every time you pay off something because it motivates me to get my own debts paid off. Watching someone else do it gives me hope that I can do the same 😄😄
Love these videos, please keep making them!! I tried the cash/envelope system, and it wasn't for me. However, I found out about the GoodBudget app which is basically an envelope budgeting system (and it's free). It's been great for me and my husband because we immediately add any money we've spent on groceries, gas, etc, and we can both login and see where we are for our monthly household budget. And there's no cash to lose (which I would totally do, so debit/credit cards for us). Definitely call your car insurance and ask them if you are eligible for any discounts for being a longtime customer, paying on time or in advance, etc. Also highly recommend using an independent agent because they can shop all the insurance companies for you to find the best deal. I call our insurance company every year to make sure I'm getting the best rate, and sometimes they find new products/policies that are the same or better for us, and save money. We also pay per 6 months and get a discount, which leads me to another point. Sinking fund! I think Dave Ramsey recommends this. You set aside money for expenses you know are going to come up like insurance, taxes, holidays/birthdays, annual vet visits for our dogs, you get the idea so you aren't caught off guard budget-wise. For your dogs, for any medications or flea & heartworm prevention, ask if your vet if they will price match. A lot of places have had to do this to compete with places like 1-800-petmeds. But always buy things like flea and heartworm from your vet: companies will not backup their products if they aren't purchased from a veterinarian.
Credit Unions or online banks like Ally Bank ... no fees and they refund you for ATM fees if you have to use another CU ATM (CU only) or bank ATM (Ally only). Love your budget videos, please keep them coming...you are inspiring me to payoff debt!!!
I think every few months or after paying something off..or even if this routine is working would be great. I love that you started doing this and now I'm encouraged to try it. I would also love to see how you make your dog's food. I spoil my pups and cook somethings for them but would love to see what you guys make. Love Your channel❤❤❤
Would love to see these budgeting videos every month! As a young professional/recent-grad, these videos are really really helpful and inspiring! You rock Aja!
i totally agree with the costco statement. Its just my husband and i so going there i find costs me a lot more and i waste food like no other because its just too much and we don't go through it fast enough
still wanna continue how you do your budget probably when you have settled something big or if something new needs to be paid off like your dental expenses, any development on your college loans. if you could also do some in-depth grocery shopping and how you allocate budget on groceries for fruits, vegetables. do you do weekly groceries? how about your miscellaneous items like shampoo, cleaners, when do you get them?
Please keep this videos! I and others love it so much! I feel like i learn so much from this video and I learn too from reading the comments. I didn't even know about the movie pass (not that I need it, but it's great to know anyways). Also for your envelope situation, you can always go to 99 cents store and get those index containers, it has about 7 slips in it and it's compact :) thanks again for doing these videos!
I'd love to see budget videos every month! They're helpful and motivating to watch, especially as a college student acquiring student loan debt of my own. Best wishes!!
My husband and I have taught upwards of 9 Financial Peace University classes over the years. Our next one starts next Tuesday. Last summer, our entire church went through it. I would highly suggest you sign up for FPU. The budget is the key, but the class will give you so much more tools and motivation. I'm new to your channel, the last budget video caught me and I really enjoyed hearing your story. We did our debt free scream in studio (it's on Dave's TH-cam channel) and were also inspired by other's screams! Keep listening to the show and watching debt free screams, it goes a long way in keeping you focused and intense.
wow - It's my goal to make my debt free scream. Already told my best friend we are going to make the cross country drive for it in 5 years (hopefully). I thought about taking FPU, i'll have to look into it around my area.
cheap envelope alternative suggestion: use an envelope sized expandable folder made of plastic or cardboard. Easy to throw in your purse and keeps all the cash together but separated by categories. You can buy these at the drug store or target.
I thoroughly enjoy these videos! It helps me seriously think about my expenses so I wouldn't mind seeing this bi-weekly! I would love to see your journey of paying off your debt. I'm rooting for you!
These videos have given me so much peace! 😩 I’m graduated late December and I’ve just been stressed with these all this debt! You’re honesty about your income is so amazing,are really helping people and I am so grateful ❤️
I would personally really appreciate seeing these videos every month / bi-weekly! It’s super motivating and relevant to me (I’m a freelancer too), and it feels like we are all on the same journey - through all the monotony and tediousness that comes with budgeting.
Not to mention, it is clear that a lot of things come along unexpectedly month to month. Would love to hear your thoughts, feelings, hardships and successes through the months.
During months when things are super consistent/“boring”, there are so many related topics you could explore alongside your budget plan, such as: chatting about hardships & setbacks, successes, what it’s like to have a partner who is not on the same program (I assume), other ways you’re earning more money, other ways you’re saving money (doing your own nails for example), a trip to the grocery store with you, meal prep budget planning and meal prep planning in general, etc.
Some people have fitness buddies, this feels like having a budget / financial diet buddy. Thanks for being super honest, real, and for motivating my ass to get my shit together. 👌🏼
PS Dave Ramsey’s daughter, Rachel Cruze, uses clips instead of envelopes as well.
PPS Haven’t started yet, but have been checking out weekly grocery store flyers to see what promos/deals they have on - including Whole Foods. Might be a good practice to help with meal planning.
I absolutely agree!
Extremely interested in the budgeting with a partner. How do you work through when one is super committed and the other doesn't get the necessity? I'm not living with someone yet but I'd love to hear the conversation and gain perspective on how others make it work
Yes, pls continue the "regular" scheduled budget videos. I think they are mutually beneficial. 💰
ISITVAINTOSAYIMPRETTY If not this exact format, at least the wins and fails aspect. Pictures of your meals/prep/grocery hauls would be a nice addition.
Monthly budget videos would be great!!! Similar to what others have said, it is very motivating for us viewers to see your progress with budgeting. We are all in the same boat and we need to make smarter financial decisions especially in this economy. These videos are so raw and real and I enjoy every second of it!
Please keep doing this! It also helps keep me on track! I don't know if making the video is tedious for you but I really love this series! This makes me incredibly hopeful for a $olid 2018.
I really don't wanna dance now, I just wanna make money moves D:
Money moves all day baby!
NEVER CLICKED SO FAST
Nadine Felice seconded!! Love these videos, Aja!
This budget videos are making me stick to my budget no matter if you make 1000 or 10000 a month we all can learn from this . I would love to keep watching more videos about this budgeting like I said it motivates me . And I need to know what you cook for your dogs and what you eat and how you meal prep
Hi everyone! A couple things:
1) Thank you, as always, for your helpful comments. It not only helps me but everyone else who clicks on this video.
2) I'll shoot my meal prep video once I get it down, until then - Gaz Oakley is who's recipes I've followed.th-cam.com/video/DuIUssE9BF4/w-d-xo.html
3) Yes to all the video suggestions.
Forget credit unions, use Simple Bank! Help you budget on the app! No fees! Bunch of ATMs!
www.simple.com/
Watch @jenplans video on budgeting/sinking funds. She follows the dave Ramsey steps!
as a young adult, realistic budgeting advice like this is super helpful. thanks for being so open about these things with us.
Aja I signed up last year for a credit union, and I'm all about that CU life now. I wish I had signed up earlier, because I earn more interest on one account in a month than I did all year with Chase on multiple accounts. Another thing, we were looking at car loans last year, and the credit union rate was 2.75 percent, whereas the dealership offered 4.25, big difference. If you're unsure about them because of location, I'd consider moving the accounts you don't touch as much into a credit union so that you're not consistently heading to a shady area. Anyway, thank you for posting these videos, I found you from your first budget video and I'm subscribed now. You're definitely a breath of fresh air on YT. Keep up the good work. Oh, and if you made a video about TJ/Costco I'd totally watch it.
Thank you for being open with your finances. We are always told not to talk about money but a number people struggle with personal finances or simply not taught how to manage budgets. Good on you for being open!
Seriously loving this series - I always check up on mine after I see yours. Ah! Glad to see you got the Adobe thing sorted out. 👌🏽
you were correct!
I love your videos!! I’m a Personal Banker & yet I still find that it’s so much easier to talk about budgeting, but in regards to putting that talk into action is another story! I love what you’re doing and how raw you are with your viewers! ♥️
PLEASE continue doing this every month! It is super refreshing to see someone on youtube being so honest and genuine. I think it will be a good way to motivate a lot of people to stay on track about budgeting especially the millennials : )
Aja, you’re not only getting your shit together but helping me get rid of my debt too! Pls post regular videos so I can learn some tips and tricks from you too. I know it’s only January but it would be especially helpful when you start budgeting in *presents for friends and family, *going out/drinking budget and *holidays too. Would love to see a meal plan video as I do the same! So glad I found you in December, probably the most honest vlogger on TH-cam 😘
yes yes yes! Please keep these coming! Trying to pay off student debt and other debt is haaaard and its so refreshing to see a youtuber talk about this stuff rather than indirectly encourage me to spend my money on things I don't need
omg Im loving this! thank you for showing us a practical way of managing finances and unexpected finances. I really liked the bobby pin method, but I find that I just use my debit card for most of my expenses. That way I can keep track of how much I spend.
👏 to meal planning and meal prep! There will always be days some meals turn out and some meals don’t, but that’s how you figure out what not to make in the future. It’s great how you show your budget, because it helps a lot of people see that bills need to come first, money that needs to go towards necessities, even factoring the entertainment/fun money, extra unexpected expenses can occur and seeing what is left over.
I admire that you are doing a budget, it helps a lot. The envelope system, as I understand it, does work. You leave the envelopes at home, put the money in them for your bills. When you are ready to pay the bills, take the money out and then pay the bills. Everyone I saw use this system used it this way. they did not carry the envelopes around. It is there so that you know you have the money to pay the bill at hand!
I think you should do it once a month a quick recap of your meal preps, first half and second half of the month, wins, and fails and how you are preparing for the next month. I am excited to see your journey and watch you pay off those loans!!!
I want to see you do your budget every month because it is like having a friend that is committed to ACTIVELY DOING the budget in real time, which is better than just merely listening to good advice. You are the only one that is taking the time to model this personal finance project so we can learn from your mistakes and copy what you do successfully. Its like having a finance partner, and this relationship requires accountability with yourself and to us, your fans. Lol
I love this bimonthly series. It also keeps me motivated and on track. I also believe it makes us viewers feel more connected to you as a TH-camr with your reality financial goals, plans, and situation that unexpected stuff sometimes come up. Keep up the great work!
Totally downgrade the Chase account. I have my personal account and my main business account with Chase and I don't pay any fees. I also rarely order checks because I pay everything online. There is no way you should pay $25 a month for an account. No way! Great video and thanks for sharing.
i agree i have automatic transfer each month into my savings acct so i wont have a monthly fee with Chase
I love how real you are about your financial life/journey. So many people on youtube, and social media in general, make me feel like I'm the only one struggling sometimes, but you keep it real. You inspired me to budget on your first video and I struggled trying to stick with it... but I really want to get it down!!
Girl DON'T STOP THESE VIDEOS! These are helping me SO MUCH on my adulting journey 😭🙌🏾
I would love to see this regularly! I've just started budgeting and it's SO refreshing to watch your videos and see the actual process, real figures and real talk, instead of hidden numbers and imagined scenarios. Please keep the budget videos coming!
love these budget videos! they help so much and motivate me to do the same for myself! thanks aja!
Thank you! I started to pay off my credit card debt last month. But now your videos have inspired me to have a more rewarding plan. I too have high grad student loan debt and can’t wait to pay off…so I can have more to show for my family…my 10 year old son. Thank you!
Be proud girl! Your doing a great job and hopefully motivating the rest of us. I started actually writing my monthly budget and expenses this past month after seeing your post 2 weeks ago. I am looking for areas to "trim" the fat from my monthly expenses and trying to spend less on things like cosmetic's and crap of which I have enough. I would love to see this series on a regular basis if you can, especially to see the ups and downs, which is what life is about.
The Bi-Weekly updates are great and you should keep doing them! They're very interesting I feel like they give us an update every two weeks on where our own financial status is.
I’m watching this in January 2021 because I’m also building my emergency fund (EF) and paying off debt (family’s) this year. I’m doing them both at the same time because of the pandemic and I saw your advice to prioritize EF. I need someone to do this with so I will watch your budget with me videos every month so I’ll feel like I’m doing it with you! Thank you Aja! You’re my inspiration and role model! Love from the Philippines. Stay safe, you and Brian! 💖
Btw I also have dogs, one of which we take to vet every month, so I can totally relate!
No, please continue these bi-monthly budget videos. I have bern about tracking my expenses for the paste few years but I suck making a budget and sticking it. You definitely inspire and motivate me to stick to mine
Really loving these budget videos as I’ve also just started doing detailed budgets over the past few months and it’s really made a big difference. Would love to see a video with a breakdown of your income/sources cause you’re rocking it with $8000 income in a single fortnight.
Continue the bi-monthly schedule, it motivates me to do mine as well! As for credit unions, I can't go back. I have a pretty solid interest rate and CD account, and I don't get crazy fees. The downside is that it's a 30-minute drive to my closest ATM so I always have to take out more cash than I need (but that also means I'm conscious about my spending).
please yes every month! because even though budgets remain situations in life area always changing each month, you honestly of going over and how you handle keeps me accountable with my budget
I'm rooting for you girl. I LOVE your commitment, self-accountability, realistic expectations, and no apologies on what makes you happy. I myself will spend crazy money on my cat because it makes me happy but will walk 2 miles instead of getting a Lyft Line or spending the $2.25 using public transit.
Please do it every month. Watching you do your budget makes me think about my own budget. You inspired me to actually sit down and tally up my numbers.
Please keep the budget videos because every month is a new plan but life never exactly goes according to plan. Its motivating me on my own journey as well. I went back to USC CU but I also bank online with Captial One 360. It's a great bank for the Dave Ramsey plan because you can create multiple savings accounts as "sinking funds." For example, you may want to set aside money into savings account for Christmas gifts, upcoming travel plans, auto insurance renewal, car maintenance, etc. Sinking funds have become a huge help for helping me not break my budget. Great job and fight on!!!! ✌️
So far, I've loved the two videos of your monthly budget series you've done. I can see where your concern is about it becoming mundane and repetitive. The idea of like "POPING UP" and doing updates of when you've payed stuff off sounds like a good idea because quite frankly, these videos inspire me to keep disciplined in paying off my debt and reworking my budget and all that jazz so thank you for that. Or if you ever have new updates or you somehow reformat your budget with other tricks is another idea too. Thanks for being so open !!
I love my credit union. I’ve been with them for 6 years and it’s great. There’s no fees and they’re super helpful. However, unless you’re going to a fairly big changes credit union, it can be a hassle. It just depends on the area you live in.
I’d love to see a budget video any time there’s major changes to see how you move your money around when it’s freed up from another payment!
I dropped my gym membership, best thing I've done. I've invested into my own home gym stuff. Fyi what helps with auto insurance is to change your deductibles. Increase them if you can. It saves you some cash.
Yes, please continue. Watching your videos helps me stay on track. When I first started keeping track with my budget, I would get mad at myself if I went over in a category. Many times I wanted to give up because it was too stressful and depressing to see my failure with money. After a few months and a lot of silent motivation from videos, I am still learning how to control my budget. thanks and keep up the hard work.
Aja you don't know how much I needed these budget videos and your honest experience with the difficult task. I've recently been overwhelmed with all the recent bills that I need to pay for this month and you're organization tips have saved me! Thank you!!!!
you got this girl!
I LOVE this series!! But you’re right because it’s going to be pretty much the same thing I would do pops of it. Every two or three months and/or when something really different happens like the dentist expense and when you hit any milestones or discovered anything new you think we should apply to our budgets. I started budgeting right after your first video. Also a video on how to keep in budget with groceries, specifically healthy foods would be awesome. I need to stop spending so much money in Whole Foods. Thanks!!! Keep up the great work!!!
My boyfriend has the same problem with his jaw but luckily his insurance covers it and I hope for you too !!! You inspire me to budget every month because I’m trying to be more responsible in 2018 and you are my biggest inspiration 💪 much Love
I started going grey in college & once I reached 25 it was really noticeable. I got my grandma's high Cherokee cheekbones, but I also got her premature grey. 😞 It's worth it to me to budget for highlights & nice hair products to help everything blend in. I think of it as a beauty, business, relationship & mental health expense, bc going grey when you're young & single is just not ok!
I'd love videos on healthy meals & food options @ TJ! And/or healthy meal prep videos? I love these videos, so if you don't mind, keep them coming!
love love love this series!! please don't stop lol it's very motivating. newly grad student with a crap ton of student loans lol. I also am looking into a switching from CHASE to a credit union. will check back to see tips that others have posted lol. loving your budgeting content. Girl don't even bother with the haters, you're motivating others to get it together and I appreciate these vids soo so much my dear xx
I personally love these every month!! Really motivates me to budget bi-weekly and I think it’ll be great to motivate you to continue budgeting and progress throughout the year!!
Yes! Please keep doing this every month it motivates me to get my finances together too!
You’re better off downgrading your checking account to the free one. I’d stay away from credit unions particularly bc of the inconvenience in ATMs.
Yes, please continue! It is so helpful! Most videos encourage spending I find your budgeting inspiring and they help me spend less and budget more. Especially helpful to me because I freelance/contract and never have a set pay. PLEASE keep it up. :)
I appreciate how open you are about money and budgeting, I love watching these videos they're so helpful and motivating. I'm trying to learn more about money/finances and I'm really rooting for you!! You can do it!!
I try to budget and save, so I really enjoy these videos. I always try to learn something new. I try to live on $200 biweekly, buying only groceries and gas, then put the rest in savings.
Yes! Please keep doing these budgeting videos bimonthly or monthly! I really find these motivating for getting myself to budget!
For you lock jaw. I had the same problem instead of jumping into the expensive mouth piece. Use the sports one you can get at any sporting goods place. Boil it for a few seconds then once its a little cool put it in out mouth and suck in, then you'll have a custom mouth piece. Wear it at night it will help. And avoid eating chewy stuff. You can all so google some exercises you can do for TMJ and it really helps.
It completely took mine away. Good luck!
Please continue! I've been using the Dave Ramsey Debt Snowball method as well and I love hearing about other's progress!
My friends and I are in a group for financial freedom so these help keep me motivated as well!
I also use excel but also you can use the everydollar app! basically making sure all of your money is accounted for somewhere - maybe not all of it is spent but all of it is allocated, so that cushion you need because you're freelance would go into a savings/emergency fund etc whatever you need!
i like how you change around your system instead of continuing with the envelopes aja! it's good that you're showing us how to be flexible and adapt to your needs as you go!
Hi Aja! I would switch to a Schwab or an Ally bank account (AKA online bank). They don't have a monthly fee AND you can take out money from any ATM and they reimburse the fee. Loving that you're taking initiative on your budgeting, especially the meal planning. That's key for cutting costs in my monthly budget! Good Luck!
I love love love how transparent and real you are especially with these budgets / it is crazy helpful to see how you go through all of it up front!! 💕💕
I just found you this morning because you were talking about David Ramsey and OMG i relate so much. I am going be paying my student loans pretty soon and I am terrify. Your videos so far are keeping me accountable for budgeting and gives me ideas too
I'm enjoying this! I'll tune in for bi-monthly updates.
I'd say stick with the big banks, just downgrade towards a basic consumer account. Credit unions are awesome if they are convenient for you. Typically, they are recommend because if you ever run into a financial issue/clerical error, credit unions will typically solve the problem faster and with less fuss. But if you move around the city a lot of need access to ATMs without fees, then it sounds like convenience wins.
Finally, well done putting that 2k towards debt!
Keep doing them bimonthly!!!!! Continual inspiration and motivation
I think this is so helpful. I live in southern California too and our income and expenses are so similar. It is crazy to think that there are people in California who make minimum wage and have to survive through the inflation. I think that was a wake up call for me to think that I make so much more but I'm not able to save any money. Thank you for the budgeting tips!
Linette may i ask what you do for a living? Sorry it that’s rude 😓 I’m just curious lol
Love this series because of how detailed and honest you are with your finances!
Credit unions are 100% the way to go! I paid $20 for checks several years ago and got like 1,000 checks which I've used maybe 50 of. I've never paid any other fees, ever. So totally a better option for your money!
I just found you today when I searched a night skincare routine! And subscribed and this video popped up! Since you asked...I think an update on your budget would be helpful, touching base like you began this video -- of what worked, what you've learned, tips and tricks that you figured out in saving. I'm so happy to find you!
Please continue with this topic. Seeing it on paper & you sharing actuals with us is motivation. Certain YT’ers are OA. Life is not perfect. You’re very refreshing to watch. Love that you can get down and be real. Feels like watching a bestie. BTW... Why do you not have at least double of your subbies? You have a balance of great content that appeals to anyone. Sorry long post ✌️
I appreciate the updated, part 2 version of the budget! I would love to see some of the recipes that you are talking about - I do a lot of vegan cooking as well. ALSO, as I understand, Bravecto can be really harsh on dog's systems, so our vet suggested using it only every now and then (2 times per year) and then using a more gentle treatment in between. Of course, ask your vet about that, but by doing that we have saved a lot of money and our pup is still flea and tick free!
My vet stopped carrying it and I called to ask if there were any issues, they didn't mention it. I just like it because it's one every 3 months.
Thanks for the budgeting videos. It keeps me accountable to my own budget! Whether or not you keep doing them monthly, just know the two you posted have helped me!
Love the budget videos! I've started my journey to paying off my debt this year too. Wishing you the best in your debt repayment journey! In regards to credit unions, I've actually worked for a credit union for over 5 years + now. Credit unions are more customer/member based and less sales driven, so fees and such are much lower, competitive loan rates as well if you care for loans. Plus they don't usually charge you for your accounts, I won't say they all don't but most of them don't have a monthly fee. You expressed concerns for ATMs near you, most credit unions are within the CO-OP network and it has over 30k ATM nationwide that you can use surcharge free. LA, OC, and SD are very great areas to have a credit union because they're so widely available, and most of the time you can find a shared branch within a few miles (which is a credit union you can use for deposit/withdrawal services even if it's not your actual credit union). Do your research and you can find a lot of great credit unions out there. Some will be open to the public and some are family/friends only. I've had Chase before but I've since consolidated all my accounts to my credit union, although they're convenience, I find I can do a lot of my banking just fine thru my credit union. They also allow me to have multiple accounts to manage my money, I can have a house fund, car fund, pet fund, bills, etc. accounts all on one account, no extra fees!
Great that you are doing the dog food yourself now. (Have to do that too because my dog is allergic to all processed food). Just keep in mind that you probably have to supplement their food. Trying to balance calcium, protein, Vitamins (and so on) is very complicated. I tried it for some time but in the long run I did not have enough time to calculate everything in her diet. Now I am supplementing her food and can relax a lot more.
Keep up the monthly budget videos it will help keeping you accountable for your budget cause you know WE ARE WATCHING!!
thank you for being so transparent! as someone just getting started with budgeting, it was awesome to see someone actually practicing what they preach.
I love these budgets!!! So helpful to see practically how to begin one! Would love if you kept doing the financial themed videos!
Aja I loved the video. I enjoyed the break down and discussion of each expense and what you learned and would do different. Also like that you take into account what your subscribers are suggesting and discussing whether it was helpful or not. I am a single mother with two children and I am in the process of clearing out debt (including student loans) and budgeting to get in a place to purchase a home. This video was super helpful and think it could benefit a lot of people. Keep up the good work!!
I think making these types of videos helps to keep you accountable...and is a motivator others. Downgrade the Chase and cut the gym. Credit unions tend to have higher interest rates so I would look into them. Love the idea of the Trader Joe's and Costco video! Thanks for sharing!
YES I WANT TO SEE THIS EVERY MONTH!!!!! Great Inspiration - please don't stop!
Please keep doing monthly budget vids! Super encouraging & inspiring. Love how you keep things easy to understand!
Loving this series! I'd love to see you continue this monthly or every other month. Your original videos on budgeting actually inspired me to focus more on paying off my student loans. Since then I've checked out Dave Ramsay, started budgeting, and made paying off my student loans a priority for this year and next year!
Seeing you keep track of your expenses reminds me to organize myself. I also have debt and hopefully will pay it this semester. KEEP GOING!
Aja, I just want to say I just found your channel right now, and I've been having anxiety because I'm in debt as well. PLEASE KEEP POSTING!
It really motivates me to stay on track for my budget watching your budget videos. But I think it should be done every 2 months or every time you pay off something because it motivates me to get my own debts paid off. Watching someone else do it gives me hope that I can do the same 😄😄
Love these videos, please keep making them!!
I tried the cash/envelope system, and it wasn't for me. However, I found out about the GoodBudget app which is basically an envelope budgeting system (and it's free). It's been great for me and my husband because we immediately add any money we've spent on groceries, gas, etc, and we can both login and see where we are for our monthly household budget. And there's no cash to lose (which I would totally do, so debit/credit cards for us).
Definitely call your car insurance and ask them if you are eligible for any discounts for being a longtime customer, paying on time or in advance, etc. Also highly recommend using an independent agent because they can shop all the insurance companies for you to find the best deal. I call our insurance company every year to make sure I'm getting the best rate, and sometimes they find new products/policies that are the same or better for us, and save money. We also pay per 6 months and get a discount, which leads me to another point.
Sinking fund! I think Dave Ramsey recommends this. You set aside money for expenses you know are going to come up like insurance, taxes, holidays/birthdays, annual vet visits for our dogs, you get the idea so you aren't caught off guard budget-wise.
For your dogs, for any medications or flea & heartworm prevention, ask if your vet if they will price match. A lot of places have had to do this to compete with places like 1-800-petmeds. But always buy things like flea and heartworm from your vet: companies will not backup their products if they aren't purchased from a veterinarian.
Credit Unions or online banks like Ally Bank ... no fees and they refund you for ATM fees if you have to use another CU ATM (CU only) or bank ATM (Ally only). Love your budget videos, please keep them coming...you are inspiring me to payoff debt!!!
I think every few months or after paying something off..or even if this routine is working would be great. I love that you started doing this and now I'm encouraged to try it. I would also love to see how you make your dog's food. I spoil my pups and cook somethings for them but would love to see what you guys make. Love Your channel❤❤❤
Would love to see these budgeting videos every month! As a young professional/recent-grad, these videos are really really helpful and inspiring! You rock Aja!
Please do this every month!! It’s so nice to see such visibility in a budget.
Yes!! Please show us! Would love to see your progress. I am currently struggling with budgeting as well.
i totally agree with the costco statement. Its just my husband and i so going there i find costs me a lot more and i waste food like no other because its just too much and we don't go through it fast enough
still wanna continue how you do your budget probably when you have settled something big or if something new needs to be paid off like your dental expenses, any development on your college loans. if you could also do some in-depth grocery shopping and how you allocate budget on groceries for fruits, vegetables. do you do weekly groceries? how about your miscellaneous items like shampoo, cleaners, when do you get them?
Please keep this videos! I and others love it so much! I feel like i learn so much from this video and I learn too from reading the comments. I didn't even know about the movie pass (not that I need it, but it's great to know anyways). Also for your envelope situation, you can always go to 99 cents store and get those index containers, it has about 7 slips in it and it's compact :) thanks again for doing these videos!
I'd love to see budget videos every month! They're helpful and motivating to watch, especially as a college student acquiring student loan debt of my own. Best wishes!!
My husband and I have taught upwards of 9 Financial Peace University classes over the years. Our next one starts next Tuesday. Last summer, our entire church went through it. I would highly suggest you sign up for FPU. The budget is the key, but the class will give you so much more tools and motivation. I'm new to your channel, the last budget video caught me and I really enjoyed hearing your story. We did our debt free scream in studio (it's on Dave's TH-cam channel) and were also inspired by other's screams! Keep listening to the show and watching debt free screams, it goes a long way in keeping you focused and intense.
wow - It's my goal to make my debt free scream. Already told my best friend we are going to make the cross country drive for it in 5 years (hopefully). I thought about taking FPU, i'll have to look into it around my area.
cheap envelope alternative suggestion: use an envelope sized expandable folder made of plastic or cardboard. Easy to throw in your purse and keeps all the cash together but separated by categories. You can buy these at the drug store or target.
I like these in depth budget videos! Gets me thinking about my monthly budget too. Please share the meal preps!
I enjoy watching budget videos. I like having a financial relationship with credit unions. I think they are more accommodating than banks.
I would still watch the bimonthly videos even if they are the same every time! Especially cause you're close to paying off your car!
I thoroughly enjoy these videos! It helps me seriously think about my expenses so I wouldn't mind seeing this bi-weekly! I would love to see your journey of paying off your debt. I'm rooting for you!
i appreciate the fact that u r so transparent with ur finances! i feel encouraged to start budgeting myself. 👍🏻
Please do this! I love that you are doing this and keeping it real! It also helps me stay in track with budgeting and the tips helps significantly!!
These videos have given me so much peace! 😩 I’m graduated late December and I’ve just been stressed with these all this debt! You’re honesty about your income is so amazing,are really helping people and I am so grateful ❤️
I love these budgeting videos! I’d love to see them this often!