Comments on: How I Think About Spending Money: “Steady” vs. “Wobbly” Expenses

By: Amber

Amber — Wed, 12 Sep 2018 17:02:06 +0000

In business terms, Fix (Overhead) vs. Variable (Cost of Goods Sold) expenses. Keeping our cost of living low so that we can enjoy life. I love it! A simple theme to your personal financial management strategy.

By: Kyle @ NYPFGuy

Kyle @ NYPFGuy — Wed, 12 Sep 2018 16:00:42 +0000

I use the same method as well. Keep the fixed expenses low then have a general idea of what you spend in other flexible categories. You’ll know if you’re getting close to going over if you check Personal Capital every few days.

By: Zach

Zach — Wed, 12 Sep 2018 12:02:51 +0000

In reply to Matt Spillar @ Spills Spot. Completely agree - if you can keep the steady expenses low each month, it can give you tremendous peace of mind and some room to overspend on wobbly expenses occasionally.

By: Zach

Zach — Wed, 12 Sep 2018 12:01:20 +0000

In reply to Kit. Thanks Kit! I really appreciate that feedback on the data visuals. I'm quick to share data and facts but slow to jump to conclusions, so I often let the readers handle that part on their own. Glad you enjoyed the article :)

By: Matt Spillar @ Spills Spot

Matt Spillar @ Spills Spot — Wed, 12 Sep 2018 02:18:01 +0000

Interesting way to think about it. I think in a similar way too, with our fixed and variable expenses. We’ve been able to get to the point where even most of our variable expenses end up being a similar amount month-to-month.

I like to keep tabs on our “baseline expenses,” and as long as that number is manageable it takes a lot of the pressure off. Definitely a huge win if you can keep your “steady” expenses low, it makes everything else a lot easier.

By: Kit

Kit — Tue, 11 Sep 2018 22:27:57 +0000

That’s a great way to break it down Zach. I have a similar breakdown to you, but a higher cost of living.

I actually wanted to comment on your article from yesterday. You have such an aptitude for data analysis and gift for presentation. I really like how cleanly you put together the charts. You also have an intelligent write-up, but let the readers draw their own conclusions based on the facts presented.

By: Simple Money Man

Simple Money Man — Tue, 11 Sep 2018 19:10:11 +0000

Love it because the steady expenses are the ones you really won’t remember or enjoy so might as well keep those low.