“Loud budgeting” appears to be the newest financial trend that has gained popularity on social media platforms like TikTok. So what exactly is loud budgeting? Loud budgeting involves being transparent and explicit with people in your life about what you are and aren’t willing to spend on. For instance, instead of simply declining a dinner invitation, someone who practices loud budgeting would say, “Sorry, can’t go out to dinner, I only have $12 a day to live on”. The idea behind loud budgeting is to be financially transparent without feeling embarrassed and to encourage open communication about money issues. It can help you stick to your financial plan and avoid overspending.
To start loud budgeting, you can follow these steps :
- Set specific financial goals: Identify specific goals you are trying to achieve for the year, so that you can articulate your intentions clearly to others.
- Consider your values: Take stock of the things that truly bring you joy and fulfillment and prioritize them in your budget.
- Communicate your needs: Be transparent with people in your life about what you are and aren’t willing to spend on.
- Come up with alternative plans: If you can’t afford to participate in an activity or event, suggest an alternative that fits within your budget.
- Be honest about gifts: If you can’t afford to buy a gift for someone, be honest and explain your situation.
- Try out new money-saving hacks: Look for ways to save money in your daily life, such as meal prepping, using coupons, or buying secondhand.
According to some financial experts, loud budgeting is a healthy practice that promotes emotional literacy as it pertains to money. Good money management requires two types of literacy: financial literacy and emotional literacy. Emotional literacy is especially important since money tends to be an emotional “lightning rod”. The words you use to describe what you feel as it relates to your savings and spending and investing and borrowing and all other forms of financial activity — that’s a different skillset altogether, and one that we are even more lacking in. Loud budgeters who are willing to communicate their intentions around their money are taking a step in the right direction.
Here are some etiquettes of loud budgeting that you can follow:
- Be positive: Loud budgeting is about being transparent and honest with people in your life about what you are and aren’t willing to spend on. It’s important to communicate your financial goals and priorities in a positive and constructive way.
- Don’t overshare: While it’s important to be transparent, it’s also important to respect other people’s privacy. You don’t need to share every detail of your financial situation with everyone you know.
- Be respectful: Loud budgeting is about open communication and mutual respect. Be respectful of other people’s financial goals and priorities and expect the same in return.
- Be creative: Loud budgeting doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice fun and social activities. Instead, try to come up with creative ways to do fun things that fit within your budget.
- Be honest: Honesty is key to successful loud budgeting. Be honest with yourself and others about what you can and can’t afford, and don’t be afraid to say no if something is outside of your budget.
- Be flexible: Loud budgeting is not about being rigid or inflexible. It’s important to be open to new ideas and to adjust your budget as your financial situation changes.
While loud budgeting is generally considered a healthy financial and social practice that promotes emotional literacy as it pertains to money, there are some potential downsides to consider:
- Social pressure: Loud budgeting can put pressure on you to stick to your budget, even if it means missing out on social events or activities.
- Misunderstandings: Loud budgeting can lead to misunderstandings if people don’t understand your financial goals and priorities.
- Rigidity: Loud budgeting can be rigid and inflexible, which can make it difficult to adjust your budget as your financial situation changes.
However, if you follow the recommended etiquettes of loud budgeting outlined above, you should be well on your way to avoiding these potential pitfalls and being successful at this new budgeting technique. It’s important to remember that loud budgeting is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It’s up to you to decide whether loud budgeting is right for you and your financial situation.
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