Everyone loves a good deal. That’s why our parents trawled the newspapers for discount coupons, and we check out our favourite shopping sites diligently for promotions.

As long as the good deal you're eyeing is a need rather than a want, it's actually one way to shape up in budgeting.

To recap, needs are things you can't live without, like food or utilities; wants are things you desire, like a new pair of shoes, and yes, that Netflix subscription.

Save when you spend

So, if you're always keeping an eye out for discounts on essentials, you're shaving spending from your budget.

For example, you could choose the right supermarket to pick up your groceries. Or, shop online, when there are deals for certain products you buy regularly.

Now, there's a new way to save money on groceries like a pro (without exposing your inner Aunty.)

The Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) has launched a mobile app called Price Kaki , which you can use to find your favourite washing detergent at the lowest price in your area! The app currently covers about 3,000 common household and grocery items, such as milk, rice, and eggs, being sold at most of the major supermarket chains. Hawker food prices will also be shown in the app.

Where's your money going?

You could be in a job of your dreams, drawing a handsome salary, but are you leaking money?

Sit down for an honest talk with yourself from time to time: Are you reading all the magazines you subscribe to, whether online or in hardcopy? Are you regularly busting your mobile data limit with abandon?

You may be too tired after work every day to read all the magazines you subscribe to. Perhaps you only have time to read one or two titles.

Are there available wireless Internet connections you are not tapping? Do you need to stream YouTube videos while you're having lunch or on the bus or train?

Not caring how you are spending, even if you can afford it, is not a smart way to handle your money. The key to being financially secure is not how much money we make, but how well we manage it.

Study your bills carefully every few months and you might find unnecessary spending you can cut without even noticing any difference in your lifestyle!

Challenge someone

Keeping to a budget can seem joyless at times. After all, you are delaying gratification.

But know that budgeting gets easier with time. The longer you keep to a budget, the less you'll notice you are giving things up. Rather, you may become happier with yourself, seeing your bigger financial goals getting closer to your grasp!

It is easier to keep going at your budgeting habit if you have someone to spur you on, be it to cheer you on when you struggle with giving up a want, or nudge you to loftier plans when you are coasting steadily to your financial goals.

Budgeting is about being smart with your money. That means it's a lifelong journey, regardless of how much your paycheck grows. It also means it's never too late to start!