How do I tell my friends that I have a limited budget? 😬

Photo by Sharon McCutcheon on Unsplash

Firstly, congratulations on sticking to your budget! It’s important to know how much you’re able to spend on entertainment and activities, and it’s equally important that you’re sticking to it! 

This does mean that at times, your friends may be able to spend more on activities than you. Address the spending gap by communicating your budget limits to your circle of friends.

Be honest.

Friends support friends. If you explain your situation to your friends, chances are they’ll completely understand.

Keep it simple.

Share that you’ve set a budget or savings goal for yourself, and only have so much per month for entertainment or going out. 

Share only as much information as you’re comfortable sharing, but keep in mind: while it's helpful to communicate where you're at, you don’t owe anyone a justification.  

It may still be hard for your friends to understand what your budget limitations mean. Have some examples of free or low-cost activities in mind. 

It doesn’t need to cost an arm and a leg to enjoy each other’s company and have fun!

• Tell them you’re happy to join them while they shop, but you’ll keep your spending to a minimum (as long as you don’t find it too tempting to spend)!

• Offer additional free/low-cost ideas like a potluck in the park, cycling, games night in, craft-making, hiking, football, or a day at the beach. 

• Look into art, exercise, or learning classes through your library or community center instead of expensive classes.

• Consider a recurring activity like a monthly book club, or a "new recipe" night.

• Google free activities in your area for more ideas.

While your friends will likely be willing to find and join activities you can all do together, they may also want to splurge occasionally.

This is okay, and sometimes you may need to be prepared to say you can’t attend. Try not to take it personally, as everyone has their own budget. 

Don’t feel like you need to change your goals or budget to fit in. 

Photo by Jarritos Mexican Soda on Unsplash

If your friends are less willing to change their activities to accommodate your budget, consider expanding your circle. This doesn’t mean cutting your existing friends out, it just means including more like-minded spenders.

It means you'll have people to spend time with, and not feel pressured to break your budget. You may even find you have a lot in common!

Take a look at these Bytes to help expand your friendship circle:

Make a new friend when you're out of school

5 steps to a great conversation with someone you just met

Ready to have the chat?