Start by tracking every rupee or dollar you spend for at least a month. Categorize your expenses into fixed (rent, utilities, EMIs) and variable (groceries, entertainment, dining out). Once you know where your money goes, set realistic spending limits for each category. Use the 50/30/20 rule as a guideline&mdash;allocate 50% of your income to needs, 30% to wants, <span style="font-family: Arial; font-size: 10pt;">Finance tips </span>and 20% to savings and debt repayment. Saving should always be treated like a non-negotiable expense. Build an emergency fund that can cover at least 3&ndash;6 months of living expenses; this fund is your safety net against job loss, medical emergencies, or unexpected repairs.