We all dread that unavoidable task of keeping our checkbook balanced. It surely causes stress that is almost overwhelming. Unless you relax you, are won't be able to take control of the situation. Stress hinders the cash flow, so vitally needed for keeping us sound financially.

1. You should understand that any well planned and thought of activity is most likely to deliver positive results. And, you can't plan better unless you relax and have a clear mind. It is helpful and important to use a monthly calendar all thru the year. Every month, use your calendar to note down the future expenses you are going to incur. For example, your car insurance may be due in June or you have plans for going out on vacation in October or there could be a wedding in the family in the month of, say March. These are the kind of expenses that perhaps you wouldn't, rather you can't avoid or postpone and are going to be incurred in addition to your normally accepted monthly expenses. Planning these expenses before hand, by using your monthly calendar gives you the needed time for cutting on other expenses, and maintaining the budget without causing any stress.

2. Becoming aware. Maintaining the balance or even recording all financial transactions may sound very demanding and you may think you are being obsessive. That's how you may lose control of financial liabilities. If you tend to spend more during the month and exhaust your funds before the end of the month, you get negative feelings. Keeping a periodic check helps to have better control and you are not likely to act whimsical at the time of purchases.

3. Reward yourself- For keeping a check on your stress levels as a consequence of monetary circumstances, it is very important that you reward yourself. Telling your friend that could manage to keep your checkbook balanced or could successfully tide over some other difficult financial situation may be good, but it doesn't give the desired kind of satisfaction. It really doesn't matter or help telling someone that you could curb the impulsive feeling of buying some dress or some such avoidable item. The fact remains that others are not really able to appreciate or relate to such very personal successes or failures.

One way of rewarding would be to have a self-talk meeting before a mirror. It sure helps to enhance your mood and builds up inner strength. Compensate yourself by indulging in one of your favorite passions. Some women would treat themselves by going to a beauty parlor while others may like to pamper themselves a bit by being in a bath tub for a prolonged time. Keep in mind that the most significant element of such compensation is not to overlook the feeling of self-assurance and control that you experienced. It will be worthwhile to jot down such events and the accompanied feelings for being referred to as and when you are required to face similar situation. Next, times you will not get so stressed in handling it and find it easier to face and come out a winner.