It can make the difference between blindly drifting from one paycheck to the next with no contingency for unexpected expenses, such as a car repair or a vet’s bill, to taking control of your finances so that you can rest safe in the knowledge that not only can you cover your bills, but you can also add to your dream-plan pot.

The success of a budgeting plan, however, relies on your complete honesty and regularly checking in on your finances.