A budget isn't a straitjacket that keeps you from really living. On the contrary, a budget that you stick to can be your ticket to living the life you imagine.

Living within a strict budget isn't easy, but neither is being heavily in debt, worrying about how to pay for your expenses, and living with the guilt that goes with spending money you don't have. You've already done the hard part by living with financial insecurity; even though living within a budget isn't fun, it won't be any harder than that.

Keep in mind, though, that simply establishing a budget isn't the answer to your financial woes. Establishing even the world's greatest budget won't make any of your financial goals a reality unless you stick to the budget and follow through.