The Jesse Mecham Show

Shock Absorbers

Jun 10, 2024

Learn how to financially prepare for life's unexpected curveballs by following the Four Rules of budgeting. Reassign saved up money to cover sudden expenses and build up your categories to have more funds available. Think of your money as shock absorbers, easing the stress of unforeseen circumstances.

06:53

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Quick takeaways

Allocating money for unexpected costs prevents financial stress.

Having funds saved up for unexpected events turns negatives into wins, reducing financial burden.

Deep dives

Importance of Budgeting for Unexpected Expenses

Setting money aside for unexpected costs such as medical emergencies or car repairs can prevent financial stress. By funding categories like high deductibles and dog contingency funds, individuals can handle emergencies without disrupting their budget. Allocating money to less frequent but significant expenses ensures that these situations don't create financial strain, allowing individuals to face challenges without worrying about money.

Turning Negatives into Wins with Financial Preparedness

7min

As the saying goes, "stuff" happens. Life throws curveballs, sometimes several in a row, and YNAB'ers prepare for this financially by following the Four Rules:

Give every dollar a job
Embrace your true expenses
Roll with the punches
Age your money

Today's episode is mostly about rule #3. When you roll with the punches, you reassign money you have saved up for other expenses in the future to cover the unexpected expense you are facing right now. After working the method for a while, you'll build up more and more money in your categories, and therefore have more money available to cover unexpeceted expenses when life decides to throw you a curveball. Think of your money like shock absorbers -- it doesn't take away all the pain or stress of unforeseen circumstances, but it does take away the money stress, which can be a blessing!

Got a question for Jesse? Send him an email:

askjesse@ynab.com

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