Wallet Feeling Lighter After Eid? Let's Do a Financial "Detox" With These Steps

The long holiday is over, the office vibe is back to normal, but something feels a bit off, right? Yep, that bank balance that usually stays safe until the end of the month is suddenly screaming for a refill.

This post-Eid "broke" phenomenon is actually totally normal. After handing out THR (holiday allowances), traveling to our hometowns, and treating the family to meals, it makes sense that our monthly cash flow gets a little messy. The problem is, the next paycheck is still a long way off.

If you—our fellow BGIERS—are currently experiencing this financial hangover, don't panic just yet. We can fix this mess slowly through a financial detox. Try starting with these four simple steps:

1. Dare to Open Your Mobile Banking (Don't Pretend You Forgot)

   The first step to treating a financial wound is checking how deep it actually is. Often, we're scared to check our account statements because we aren't ready to face reality. But this is a must. Try writing it down again—where did all that money go? Was it tickets, clothes shopping, or maybe impulsive snacking? This record is super important so we don't repeat the exact same mistakes next year.

2. Settle the "Ongoing" Bills First

   For those who used the paylater feature or swiped their credit cards to buy homecoming tickets or hampers, this has to be your top priority. The moment you get paid, immediately set aside some funds to clear these bills. Don't let the interest pile up and turn into an extra burden in the coming months.

3. Go on a Snacking and Hangout "Fast"

   Considering we went all-out with our spending last month, it's time to hit the brakes hard this month. Cut down on the frequent cafe visits or ordering food through online apps. Try bringing a packed lunch to the office. It sounds trivial, but saving thirty to fifty thousand rupiah a day goes a long way in keeping you afloat until payday.

4. Return to Factory Settings (Normal Budget)

   Revert your money management style back to the basic formula, like the 50/30/20 rule. The only difference is, since this is a recovery month, you can squeeze the "wants" portion (the 30%) down to just 15%. And the rest? Use it to cover essential needs or to replenish the savings you dipped into for Eid.

Failing to manage your money during Eid isn't the end of the world. Just think of it as a moment to reset our financial habits. Let's start slowly. Keep up the good work at the office, and keep up the spirit for saving, too!