Ways to control your expenses

There are different types of expenses that you need to consider when planning ahead.

Fixed expenses: the amount and frequency are always the same (example: rent).

Variable expenses: you know the frequency but the amount changes (example: phone bill). Make sure you keep money for them!

Discretionary expenses: the not-so-vital expenses (example: leisure). Control them ... and don't let them control you. You can always decide not to spend on such things.

Emergency expenses: the expenses you did not expect, like a medical bill. Beware: bills you fail to anticipate are not emergency expenses!