6 ways to balance your finances and still have a social life

Brought to you by new Avonmore Balance – helps put back in what life takes out.

Yes to that weekend away, yes to the new shoes and yes to trying out that new restaurant in town.

Indulging in life’s pleasures can make you smile on even the longest of days and the thought of giving it all up seems impractical. Life is for living, right? When you're paying off a debt or reaching some other financial goal you usually have to cut back all the good things life has to offer which can almost seem impossible. But, cutting back on your spending doesn’t mean your life has to end. So, what's the secret? 1. Create a budget The first step to regaining balance in your finances is to create a budget. You’ll reap the rewards financially and you’ll feel much more in control. Who doesn’t feel good when they see a healthy bank balance? Spending money makes us happier in the short term but over-spending can actually have a negative impact on your quality of life. Why not set achievable goals and pave your way to financial success. 2. Plan ahead Compulsive shopping can lead to buyer’s remorse which we're all too familiar with. Plan ahead and decide what you really need to buy and you are less likely to feel that post shopping guilt. Shopping with purpose will enable you to take control of your financial habits and not overspend. But, this doesn’t mean you can’t pamper yourself... 3. DIY SPA time After a hectic week, a relaxing day at the spa never seemed so tempting. But now that you’ve set the wheels in motion for a better you, that €80 facial does seem a little extravagant. Our favourite DIY beauty hack that won't cost a thing involves only one ingredient - coconut oil. To keep your skin hydrated and youthful without splashing the cash, apply coconut oil to your face, leave overnight and get that spa glow from home. Beauty doesn't have to break the bank. 4. Plan a staycation You're probably already planning next year's holiday or are you finding it too hard to budget it in? If you’re saving for something, one of the first cuts should be all those foreign holidays you’ve been treating yourself to - that weekend to Barcelona, that week in Croatia - it all adds up. Allocate your holiday budget to all the interesting activities in your home town and commit fully to this new you. You don't need to travel far to explore and have fun, you can do it. 5. BYO nights Don't worry if you're strapped for cash, you can still enjoy a delicious meal out at a 'bring-your-own' wine restaurant. Saving on expensive wines and dishes, BYO's are the perfect substitute for that flash restaurant you normally go to. Eating out can get pretty expensive and take its toll on your bank balance but now Friday and Saturday nights never looked so appealing. 6. Movie nights Host an 'old movie' marathon right from your sitting room and invite all of your friends around without spending much money. If you're feeling generous you could include a popcorn bar where people can serve themselves – after all, what’s a night at the movies without popcorn? You'll have people queuing up for your next one. The point of having a social life is to enjoy time with your family and friends but it should never leave you broke. Trying to manage your finances can often feel like you’re juggling too many goals at once but it’s all about balance. There are plenty of fun ways to enjoy yourself without spending loads of cash, you just have to be a bit more inventive! Life can be challenging. We know we need to nourish the body and mind with a healthy balanced diet, combined with exercise in order to stay fit, strong and healthy... but that’s not always easy. Avonmore Balance is a low fat milk fortified with extra protein, iron and vitamins to help your body stay in balance. Discover The Power of Balance - helps put back in what life takes out.