Budget Workings

I loath to admit this, but I hate working out budgets.  I know they are important, I know that to effectively manage your finances a budget is a key tool.  But I HATE them.  I just hate feeling so restrained with being able to spend money. 

I have live my grown up life with this philosophy.  Pay bills first, buy groceries next, and the rest of the money is mine to spend as I so choose.  This has obviously not left me with a lot of savings.  It's frustrating because I am now seeing the importance of savings but at the same time I still like to have things to entertain myself with. 

I have made a decision though, as of this moment, meaning the Month of August I am on an allowance.  I am allowed to have $200 in spending money a month.  This spending money is to be inclusive of my gas money as well.  It will not cover things like oil changes and maintenance on the car but gas money, coffee money, buying movies, going out money will be limited to this $200.  I have to start living within this very small amount so that I can pay off my bills and start a savings.  Granted this will have to be altered a bit if I start subbing and have to drive more than I do or if I start working again because then I will have a bit more money to work with.  For now though and until I have a full time job, $200 a month is my spending money.  That is it that is all.  Let's hope I can stick to this!!!