Identifying and Understanding Your Income and Expenses.

The first step in sticking to a budget is to identify your income. This includes all the money you earn, including your salary, bonuses, and any other sources of income. It’s important to be as accurate as possible when calculating your income to ensure that you have a clear picture of your financial situation.

One way to identify your income is to look at your pay stubs or bank statements. You can also use online tools or apps to track your income automatically. Once you have a clear understanding of your income, you can start to plan your budget accordingly.

Listing Your Expenses

The next step is to list your expenses. This includes all the money you spend, including bills, groceries, entertainment, and any other expenses. It’s important to be as detailed as possible when listing your expenses to ensure that you don’t miss anything.

One way to list your expenses is to keep track of your spending for a few weeks. You can use a notebook or an app to record your expenses. Once you have a clear understanding of your expenses, you can start to categorize them and prioritize them based on their importance.

Here’s an example of how you could categorize your expenses:

By categorizing your expenses, you can see where your money is going and identify areas where you can cut back. This will help you create a budget that is realistic and achievable.

Creating a Realistic Budget

Setting Financial Goals

To create a realistic budget, I start by setting financial goals. These goals should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound (SMART). For example, if I want to pay off my credit card debt, I would set a specific goal of paying off $5,000 within the next 12 months.

Once I have set my financial goals, I can then work backward to determine how much money I need to allocate to each category in my budget. This helps me prioritize my spending and avoid overspending in areas that are not aligned with my goals.

Allocating Money for Each Category

The next step in creating a realistic budget is to allocate money for each category. I start by listing all of my monthly expenses, including fixed expenses such as rent, utilities, and car payments, as well as variable expenses such as groceries, entertainment, and clothing.

To ensure that I am not overspending in any category, I use a percentage-based budgeting approach. For example, I might allocate 50% of my income to fixed expenses, 30% to variable expenses, and 20% to savings and debt repayment. However, these percentages can vary depending on my financial goals and individual circumstances.

To keep track of my spending, I use a budgeting app or spreadsheet to monitor my expenses and make adjustments as needed. By creating a realistic budget and sticking to it, I can avoid overspending and achieve my financial goals.

Implementing Your Budget

Now that you have created a budget, it’s time to put it into action. Here are two important steps to help you implement your budget successfully.

Tracking Your Spending

The first step in implementing your budget is to track your spending. This will help you see where your money is going and where you need to make adjustments. There are several ways to track your spending, including:

• Using a budgeting app: Many budgeting apps allow you to link your bank accounts and credit cards, so your transactions are automatically tracked. This can save you time and make it easier to stay on top of your spending.
• Keeping a spending journal: Write down every expense you make in a notebook or spreadsheet. This can be helpful if you prefer a more hands-on approach to budgeting.
• Saving receipts: Keep all your receipts and add up your expenses at the end of each day or week.

No matter which method you choose, make sure to review your spending regularly. This will help you stay on track and make adjustments as needed.

Adjusting Your Budget

Once you have tracked your spending for a month or two, it’s time to adjust your budget. This may involve cutting back on certain expenses or finding ways to earn more money. Here are some tips to help you adjust your budget:

• Identify areas to cut back: Look at your spending and identify areas where you can cut back. This may involve eating out less, finding cheaper alternatives for entertainment, or reducing your grocery bill.
• Find ways to earn more money: Consider taking on a part-time job, selling items you no longer need, or finding freelance work. Even small amounts of extra income can help you reach your financial goals.
• Be flexible: Remember that your budget is not set in stone. It’s okay to make adjustments as your circumstances change. Just make sure to stay focused on your goals and make choices that align with your priorities.

By tracking your spending and adjusting your budget regularly, you can stay on track and avoid overspending. With a little patience and discipline, you can achieve your financial goals and live a more secure and fulfilling life.

Avoiding Overspending

Recognizing Triggers

One of the first steps in avoiding overspending is to recognize the triggers that lead us to spend more than we intended. These triggers can be different for everyone, but some common ones include:

• Emotional states: feeling stressed, anxious, or bored can lead us to seek comfort in shopping or spending money on things we don’t need.
• Social pressure: feeling the need to keep up with friends or family members who have a higher income or different spending habits can lead us to overspend.
• Sales and promotions: seeing a sale or promotion can make us feel like we’re getting a good deal, even if we don’t really need the item.
• Impulse buying: buying something on a whim without really thinking it through can lead to overspending.

Once you’ve identified your personal triggers, you can start to develop strategies to avoid or manage them. For example, if you know that stress often leads you to overspend, you may want to find other ways to manage your stress, such as exercise or meditation.

Practicing Mindful Spending

Another key strategy for avoiding overspending is to practice mindful spending. This means being intentional about how and where you spend your money, and making sure that your spending aligns with your values and priorities.

Some tips for practicing mindful spending include:

• Creating a budget: having a clear understanding of your income and expenses can help you make more informed spending decisions.
• Setting goals: having specific goals for your money, such as saving for a vacation or paying off debt, can help you stay focused and motivated.
• Planning ahead: thinking ahead about upcoming expenses, such as birthdays or holidays, can help you avoid last-minute impulse buys.
• Asking yourself questions: before making a purchase, ask yourself if you really need the item, if it aligns with your values and priorities, and if you can afford it.

By recognizing your personal triggers and practicing mindful spending, you can develop habits that will help you stick to your budget and avoid overspending.

Reviewing and Adjusting Your Budget

Monthly Review

To ensure that I stick to my budget and avoid overspending, I make it a habit to review my budget on a monthly basis. During this review, I check my spending against my budgeted amounts to see if I am on track. I also take note of any unexpected expenses that came up during the month and adjust my budget accordingly.

One tool that I find helpful during my monthly review is a budgeting app. The app allows me to easily track my spending and see how much I have left in each budget category. It also sends me alerts when I am getting close to reaching my budget limit.

Making Necessary Adjustments

If I find that I am consistently overspending in a certain category, I know it is time to make some adjustments to my budget. One option is to cut back on spending in that category. For example, if I am consistently overspending on dining out, I may decide to cook more meals at home.

Another option is to increase the budgeted amount for that category. However, I am careful not to increase my budget too much, as this can lead to overspending in other categories.

In some cases, unexpected expenses may come up that require me to adjust my budget. For example, if my car needs repairs, I may need to take money from another budget category to cover the expense. In these situations, I make sure to adjust my budget accordingly and continue to track my spending to stay on track.

Overall, reviewing and adjusting my budget on a regular basis helps me stay on track and avoid overspending. By being proactive and making necessary adjustments, I am able to stick to my budget and achieve my financial goals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, sticking to a budget and avoiding overspending is not an easy task, but it is definitely achievable with dedication and discipline. It requires a lot of planning, tracking, and self-control. However, the benefits of budgeting are immense and can help you achieve your financial goals and live a stress-free life.

Throughout this article, I have shared some of my personal tips and tricks that have helped me stick to my budget and avoid overspending. By following these simple steps, you can take control of your finances and achieve financial freedom.

Remember, budgeting is not a one-time event, but a continuous process. It requires regular review and adjustment to make sure it is aligned with your changing needs and goals. So, don’t be afraid to make changes to your budget as needed.

Finally, always be mindful of your spending habits and keep track of your expenses. By doing so, you can avoid impulse purchases and unnecessary expenses, and stay on track with your budget.

I hope this article has provided you with valuable insights and information on how to stick to a budget and avoid overspending. Good luck on your budgeting journey!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some effective ways to control overspending?

To control overspending, I recommend setting a budget and tracking your expenses. You can also try avoiding impulse purchases, using cash instead of credit cards, and finding cheaper alternatives for the things you need.

How can I stick to my budget when shopping?

When shopping, it’s important to have a list of the items you need and stick to it. You should also avoid shopping when you’re hungry or tired, as this can lead to impulse purchases. Additionally, you can try using coupons and shopping during sales to save money.

What are some common mistakes people make when trying to stick to a budget?

Some common mistakes people make when trying to stick to a budget include not setting realistic goals, not tracking their expenses, and not accounting for unexpected expenses. It’s important to be flexible and adjust your budget as needed.

How can I motivate myself to stick to my budget?

To motivate yourself to stick to your budget, you can try setting rewards for reaching your financial goals. You can also find a budgeting buddy to hold you accountable and provide support. Additionally, you can remind yourself of the benefits of sticking to your budget, such as financial stability and reduced stress.

What are some tips for creating a realistic budget?

When creating a budget, it’s important to be realistic about your income and expenses. You should also account for unexpected expenses and prioritize your spending based on your needs and goals. It can be helpful to use budgeting tools and resources to guide you.

How can I track my expenses to avoid overspending?

To track your expenses, you can use a budgeting app or spreadsheet to record your purchases and categorize them. You should also review your expenses regularly and adjust your budget as needed. It can also be helpful to set alerts for when you’re nearing your budget limits.

Understanding the Concept of Expense Tracking:

What is the definition of expense tracking? Expense tracking refers to the process of recording and monitoring all the money spent over a certain period. It involves keeping track of all expenses, including cash, credit card, and bank transactions.

By tracking expenses, you can gain a better understanding of their spending habits and identify areas where they can reduce expenses and prosper.

Importance of Expense Tracking

Tracking expenses is an essential aspect of budgeting. It helps to keep your finances in check and ensure that you’re spending within your means. By tracking expenses, you can identify areas of overspending and make necessary adjustments.

Expense tracking also helps to set financial goals and prioritize spending. For instance, if you want to save for a vacation or a down payment on a house, they can identify areas where they can cut back on expenses and redirect those funds towards their financial goals.

In addition, expense tracking enables tracking progress towards financial goals. By monitoring spending habits, you can determine if you’re on track to achieving your goals or if you need to make adjustments.

Overall, expense tracking is a crucial tool for anyone looking to take control of their finances and achieve financial stability.

The Benefits of Tracking Your Expenses

Improved Financial Awareness

Tracking your expenses can help you gain a better understanding of your financial situation. By keeping track of your spending, you can identify areas where you may be overspending and make adjustments to your budget. This can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and better manage your money.

Effective Budgeting

Tracking your expenses is an essential part of budgeting. By knowing exactly where your money is going, you can create a realistic budget that takes into account your income and expenses. This can help you avoid overspending and ensure that you have enough money to cover your bills and other expenses.

Debt Reduction

One of the biggest benefits of tracking your expenses is that it can help you reduce your debt. By identifying areas where you may be overspending, you can redirect that money towards paying off your debts. This can help you pay off your debts faster and save money on interest charges.

Savings Growth

Tracking your expenses can also help you grow your savings. By identifying areas where you may be overspending, you can redirect that money towards your savings goals. This can help you build up your emergency fund, save for a down payment on a house, or invest in your future.

Overall, tracking your expenses is an essential part of financial management. By keeping track of your spending, you can gain a better understanding of your financial situation, create an effective budget, reduce your debt, and grow your savings.

Methods of Expense Tracking

Keeping track of expenses is crucial for budgeting. There are several ways to track expenses, including manual tracking, digital tools, and professional services.

Manual Tracking

Manual tracking involves writing down expenses in a notebook or spreadsheet. This method is straightforward and can be done using a pen and paper or a computer. It is ideal for those who prefer a hands-on approach to budgeting. However, manual tracking can be time-consuming and prone to errors.

Digital Tools

Digital tools make expense tracking more manageable. There are several apps and software available that can help with budgeting. These tools automatically categorize expenses, generate reports, and provide insights into spending habits. Some popular digital tools include Mint, YNAB, and Personal Capital. These tools are convenient and save time, but they may require a subscription fee.

Professional Services

For those who want expert help with budgeting, professional services are available. Financial advisors and accountants can help create a budget, track expenses, and provide advice on saving and investing. This method is ideal for those who have complex financial situations or need help with long-term financial planning. However, professional services can be expensive and may not be necessary for everyone.

In conclusion, there are several methods of expense tracking, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. It is essential to choose the method that works best for you and your financial situation.

Implementing Expense Tracking

Starting Small

To start tracking your expenses, I recommend beginning with a small, manageable goal. This could be as simple as tracking all of your expenses for one week. Once you’ve accomplished that, you can gradually increase the length of time you track your expenses until it becomes a habit.

One effective way to track your expenses is to use a spreadsheet or budgeting app. This will allow you to easily categorize your expenses and see where your money is going. You can also use a notebook or a simple app like a notes app to record your expenses manually.

Consistency is Key

Consistency is crucial when it comes to tracking your expenses. It’s important to make it a habit and to track every expense, no matter how small. This will give you an accurate picture of your spending habits and help you identify areas where you can cut back.

To make tracking your expenses easier, try to get into a routine. Set aside a specific time each day or week to record your expenses, and make it a part of your regular routine. You can also set reminders on your phone or computer to help you remember.

Periodic Review

Once you’ve been tracking your expenses for a while, it’s important to periodically review your spending habits. This will help you identify any areas where you’re overspending and make adjustments to your budget.

Review your expenses on a monthly or quarterly basis and look for trends. Are you spending more than you budgeted for in certain categories? Are there areas where you can cut back? Use this information to make adjustments to your budget and spending habits.

By starting small, being consistent, and periodically reviewing your expenses, you can successfully implement expense tracking into your budgeting routine and reap the benefits of a more financially stable future.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

Time-Consuming Process

Tracking expenses can be a time-consuming process. It requires discipline and patience to record every single expense. It can be challenging to stick to the habit of tracking expenses, especially when life gets busy.

One solution to this challenge is to use technology. There are many apps and software available that can help automate the process of tracking expenses. These tools can link to your bank account and credit cards to automatically categorize expenses. This can save a lot of time and effort.

Another solution is to set a specific time each day or week to track expenses. By making it a habit and incorporating it into your routine, it becomes easier to stick to.

Data Privacy Concerns

Some people may have concerns about the privacy of their financial information. They may worry about the security of their data and who has access to it.

To address these concerns, it’s important to choose a reputable app or software that has strong security measures in place. Look for tools that use encryption and two-factor authentication to protect your data.

It’s also important to read the privacy policy of any app or software you use to understand how your data is being used and who has access to it.

Sustainability of the Habit

Tracking expenses is a habit that requires consistency and sustainability. It can be challenging to maintain the habit over the long term.

One solution is to set specific goals and incentives for tracking expenses. For example, you could set a goal to save a certain amount of money each month and reward yourself when you achieve that goal.

Another solution is to find an accountability partner. This could be a friend or family member who is also interested in tracking their expenses. By holding each other accountable, you can help each other stay motivated and on track.

Conclusion

In conclusion, tracking your expenses is a simple yet powerful way to take control of your finances. By keeping a record of your spending, you can identify areas where you are overspending and make adjustments to your budget accordingly. This can help you save money and work towards your financial goals.

Additionally, tracking your expenses can help you identify patterns in your spending behavior. For example, you may notice that you tend to overspend on eating out or impulse purchases. Once you are aware of these patterns, you can take steps to change your behavior and make more mindful spending choices.

Overall, tracking your expenses is a valuable tool for budgeting that can lead to greater financial stability and peace of mind. Whether you choose to use a spreadsheet, a budgeting app, or a pen and paper, the important thing is to start tracking your expenses today.

Frequently Asked Questions

How can tracking your expenses help you save money?

By tracking your expenses, you can see where your money is going and identify areas where you can cut back. This can help you save money in the long run and achieve your financial goals.

What are the best tools for tracking expenses?

There are many tools available for tracking expenses, including budgeting apps, spreadsheets, and even pen and paper. The best tool is one that you feel comfortable using and that allows you to easily track your expenses.

What are the most common expenses people forget to track?

People often forget to track small, everyday expenses such as coffee, snacks, and impulse purchases. These expenses can add up quickly and have a big impact on your budget.

How often should you review your expenses?

It’s a good idea to review your expenses on a regular basis, such as once a week or once a month. This can help you stay on track with your budget and make adjustments as needed.

What are some tips for sticking to a budget?

Some tips for sticking to a budget include setting realistic goals, tracking your expenses, avoiding impulse purchases, and finding ways to save money on everyday expenses.

How can tracking expenses help you identify areas to cut back on?

By tracking your expenses, you can see where your money is going and identify areas where you may be overspending. This can help you make adjustments to your budget and cut back on unnecessary expenses.

As someone who has struggled with managing finances in the past, I know firsthand how overwhelming it can be to get started with budgeting.

Fortunately, there are now a plethora of budgeting apps available that can make the process much easier and more manageable, even for beginners.

Understanding budgeting apps is the first step to choosing the right one for your needs.

These apps can help you track your expenses, set financial goals, and even automate some of your savings. With so many options available, it can be difficult to know where to start. But with a little research and some trial and error, you can find an app that works for you.

In this article, I’ll share some of the top budgeting apps for beginners, as well as tips for using them effectively. Whether you’re just starting out on your financial journey or looking to take your budgeting to the next level, there’s an app out there that can help.

Key Takeaways

• Budgeting apps can help beginners manage their finances more effectively.
• Understanding the features of budgeting apps is key to choosing the right one.
• With the right app and some effective strategies, budgeting can become a manageable and even enjoyable part of your financial routine.

Understanding Budgeting Apps

What are Budgeting Apps?

Budgeting apps are software applications designed to help individuals manage their finances. These apps typically provide users with tools to track income and expenses, create budgets, and set financial goals. Some budgeting apps also offer additional features, such as investment tracking and bill payment reminders.

There are many different types of budgeting apps available, ranging from simple tools that focus on basic budgeting to more complex applications that offer a range of financial management features. Some budgeting apps are free, while others charge a fee for access to premium features.

Why Use Budgeting Apps?

There are several reasons why someone might choose to use a budgeting app. For one, budgeting apps can help individuals gain a better understanding of their finances by providing a clear picture of their income and expenses. This can help users identify areas where they may be overspending and make adjustments to their budget accordingly.

Budgeting apps can also help users set financial goals and track their progress towards those goals. For example, someone might use a budgeting app to save for a down payment on a house or to pay off credit card debt.

Finally, budgeting apps can be a useful tool for individuals who want to simplify their financial management. By consolidating all of their financial information in one place, users can save time and avoid the hassle of manually tracking their finances.

Overall, budgeting apps can be a helpful tool for individuals who want to take control of their finances and improve their financial well-being.

Choosing the Right Budgeting App

When it comes to choosing the right budgeting app, there are a few key factors to consider. Here are some things to keep in mind:

Ease of Use

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a budgeting app is how easy it is to use. You want an app that is intuitive and user-friendly, so you can quickly and easily enter your income and expenses. Look for an app that has a clean, simple interface and doesn’t require a lot of time to set up.

Features and Functionality

Another important factor to consider is the features and functionality of the app. Look for an app that offers the features you need to manage your finances effectively. For example, if you want to track your spending in different categories, look for an app that allows you to create custom categories. If you want to set savings goals, look for an app that has a savings goal feature.

Security and Privacy

Finally, it’s important to consider the security and privacy of the app. Look for an app that uses encryption to protect your data and has a privacy policy that clearly outlines how your data will be used. You should also look for an app that allows you to set a password or PIN to protect your data.

Overall, when choosing a budgeting app, it’s important to find one that meets your specific needs and preferences. By considering factors like ease of use, features and functionality, and security and privacy, you can find an app that will help you manage your finances effectively.

Top Budgeting Apps for Beginners

As someone who has struggled with managing my finances in the past, I have found that using budgeting apps can be a great way to stay on top of my spending. Here are my top picks for budgeting apps that are perfect for beginners.

Mint

Mint is a popular budgeting app that is great for beginners. It allows you to connect all of your accounts in one place, including bank accounts, credit cards, and investments. Mint also automatically categorizes your transactions and provides you with a breakdown of your spending habits. You can set up budgets for different categories and receive alerts when you are close to going over your budget. One downside to Mint is that it does have a lot of ads and promotions for financial products, so you’ll need to be mindful of that.

You Need a Budget (YNAB)

You Need a Budget (YNAB) is another popular budgeting app that is great for beginners. YNAB uses a unique budgeting method called “zero-based budgeting,” which means that every dollar you earn is assigned a job. YNAB also offers free online workshops and resources to help you learn how to manage your money better. One downside to YNAB is that it does have a monthly subscription fee.

PocketGuard

PocketGuard is a budgeting app that is perfect for beginners who want a simple and easy-to-use app. It allows you to connect all of your accounts in one place and provides you with a snapshot of your finances. PocketGuard also offers suggestions for ways to save money and tracks your bills so you never miss a payment. One downside to PocketGuard is that it doesn’t have as many features as some of the other budgeting apps on this list.

Overall, these budgeting apps can be a great way for beginners to start managing their finances. Each app has its pros and cons, so it’s important to find the one that works best for you.

How to Use Budgeting Apps Effectively

As a beginner looking to manage your finances, budgeting apps can be a great tool to help you achieve your financial goals. Here are some tips on how to use budgeting apps effectively:

Setting Up Your Budget

When you first start using a budgeting app, the first thing you should do is set up your budget. This involves inputting your income and expenses, and categorizing them accordingly. Most budgeting apps will have pre-set categories, but you can also create your own custom categories if needed.

It’s important to be realistic when setting up your budget. Don’t underestimate your expenses or overestimate your income. The more accurate your budget is, the more effective it will be in helping you manage your finances.

Tracking Your Spending

Once your budget is set up, the next step is to track your spending. Most budgeting apps will allow you to link your bank accounts and credit cards, which will automatically track your transactions. You can also manually input any cash transactions.

It’s important to regularly check your budgeting app to make sure your spending is in line with your budget. If you notice that you’re overspending in a certain category, you may need to adjust your budget or find ways to cut back on expenses.

Adjusting Your Budget Over Time

Your budget is not set in stone. As your income and expenses change, you may need to adjust your budget accordingly. For example, if you get a raise at work, you may want to allocate more money towards savings or debt repayment.

It’s important to regularly review your budget and make adjustments as needed. This will help you stay on track towards your financial goals.

In conclusion, budgeting apps can be a great tool for beginners looking to manage their finances. By setting up your budget, tracking your spending, and adjusting your budget over time, you can effectively use budgeting apps to achieve your financial goals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, budgeting apps are an excellent tool for beginners looking to manage their finances. With a wide range of features, these apps can help you track your spending, create a budget, and save money.

When choosing a budgeting app, it’s important to consider your individual needs and preferences. Some apps may be better suited for those who want a more hands-on approach, while others may be better for those who prefer a more automated experience.

Regardless of which app you choose, it’s important to stay committed to using it regularly. By consistently tracking your spending and sticking to your budget, you can take control of your finances and achieve your financial goals.

Overall, budgeting apps can be a valuable tool for anyone looking to improve their financial literacy and take control of their finances. With the right app and a commitment to using it regularly, you can achieve financial success and live a more financially secure life.

You can learn more about how to create a budget that works for your lifestyle here.

Related posts:

• Is It Better to Buy a New or Used Car?
• 10 Ways To Get Out Of Debt This Year: Expert Tips
• 50/30/20 Budget Rule: How to Manage Your Finances Effectively
• Smart Grocery Shopping Strategies for Saving Money
• Frugal Grocery Shopping Tips and Tricks: How to Save Money on Your Next Trip to the Store

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some free budgeting apps for iPhone?

There are several free budgeting apps for iPhone that can help you manage your finances. Some popular options include Mint, PocketGuard, and Wally.

Which budgeting app is best for couples?

If you are looking for a budgeting app that is specifically designed for couples, then Honeydue may be a good option as can Goodbudget. Both allow you to share and track expenses with your partner, set budget goals, and receive alerts when bills are due.

What are the best budgeting apps for 2023?

As of 2023, some of the best budgeting apps include Mint, YNAB (You Need a Budget), PocketGuard, and Wally. These apps offer a range of features, including expense tracking, budgeting tools, and bill reminders.

How do I start budgeting and saving money as a beginner?

To start budgeting and saving money as a beginner, it’s important to first track your expenses and identify areas where you can cut back. Once you have a clear picture of your spending habits, you can create a budget and set financial goals. Use budgeting apps that can help you with this process, including Mint and YNAB. A quick overview of ones to check out and for what purposes are: Best free budgeting app: Mint. Best for tracking spending: PocketGuard. Best for user-friendliness: You Need a Budget (YNAB). Best for organizing funds: EveryDollar. Best for couples: Goodbudget. Best for worldwide access: Wally. These aren’t the only ones, yet what I selected at the time of writing this article.

What is the easiest budgeting app to use?

If you are new to budgeting and looking for an app that is very easy to use, then PocketGuard may be a good option. It offers a simple interface and allows you to link all of your financial accounts in one place.

What app can help me keep track of my finances?

There are several apps that can help you keep track of your finances, including Mint, Personal Capital, and Clarity Money. These apps allow you to track your expenses, monitor your investments, and receive alerts when bills are due. Also look at the ones I listed above.