If you’ve enjoyed Marie Kondo’s Netflix series, take your tidying to the next level and organise your personal finances with Kakebo – The Japanese Art of Mindful Spending.
The Japanese word Kakebo, pronounced ka-kay-bo, literally means ‘household accounts book’. The traditional method of money management will help you spend less and save more. By closely monitoring your spending you will quickly be able to identify waste and the most significant areas where adjustments can be made. Mindful saving is believed to create balance and calmness in your life.
Designed like a diary, this guide allows you to record and track your spending every day for two years and learn how to manage your personal budget. Each day is divided into four categories;
(1) Primary needs – food, hygiene and children
(2) Optional needs – shopping, cosmetics and gifts
(3) Entertainment – restaurants, books and music
(4) Extras/unforeseen expenses – travel, repairs, tuition and taxes.
While personal money management is nothing new, Kakebo promotes self-awareness and peace of mind. You can start the journal at any time of the year and it is ideal for people who prefer a paper based system. Kakebo also offers practical and motivating tips that teach you how to save more successfully.
Reviewer: Andrea Molloy HarperCollins, RRP $25.00