<prompt> Human: I recently got a new job, and decided its time to take my financial stand. Im 19 years old, and took over my phone payment, my car insurance, and will be getting an apartment soon. How do I create a budget, that I can stick to? I have tried so many apps, I am always on my phone. iPhone, if that helps but every app Ive tried, doesnt seem to work for me. How do I properly set up a budget, and account for things that are unexpected in the budget, such as paying back friends, incidence, and such. You guys have helped out many people here, and Ive been witness to it. So I came here, and am hoping to have a balanced, and well followed budget set up. Thank you, all!  <response>: Youve got to start somewhere regardless of the mobile app, program, spreadsheet, notebook, or clay tablet you use to track and record. Set a goal to work towards. First up, if youre not already there, would be saving up an emergency fund of 3-6 mo expenses. Life gets incredibly less stressful if you dont have to worry about making ends meet all the time. Estimate monthly income and all monthly bills. Estimate infrequently recurring expenses like auto maintenance and clothing. Estimate variable costs like food, entertainment, and transportation. Work under these numbers. Adjust as necessary to meet your goals. Pay yourself first. Your savings are not whats left over at the end of the month. They are the number you picked in the beginning and they come out before any fixed or variable expenses. Always live well below your means. Keeping up with spendy acquaintances does not constitute success and will probably not make you any happier than you would be at a more modest standard of living. 