Recent reviews by ceolstan

What's there not to like? A huge open world game with enough stuff to do that you never need to finish the story. This is classic Bethesda game design, and with a much better storyline than Oblivion.

Have you ever wondered why you run short of money at the end of the pay period? If you are convinced that you make enough money to cover your bills and living expenses, but somehow seem to be struggling to stay above the financial water, then this software is for you.

Based on the envelope system of budgeting, You Need a Budget (YNAB) makes you keenly aware of just how much you spend and for what kinds of purchases. You start by setting up a budget with the money you have at that time, and figuring out what the money needs to do (pay a bill, save up for a new car, etc.) before the next paycheck. The goal is to save up one month's paycheck and pay off debt.

YNAB offers a lot of support. There are online classes and a forum community. Additionally, for iPhone users, there's an app that will allow you to record transactions on the go.

Major criticism of the system is that it requires you to record all transactions manually. This, however, is part of the system. Marking that you've spent money as you spend it helps build awareness of your spending habits and builds discipline. You become more aware of the kinds of trade-offs you need to make in order to keep from becoming overspent. Want pizza, but have only $5 left in your Restaurant budget? You have to decide whether to have pizza, or to siphon off funds from your New Car fund. Want to take a joy ride? Check to see if you have the budget for your fuel.

While YNAB isn't a game, it often feels like one. That there's real money involved makes it even better.