I was writing something longer, but essentially +1 YNAB. The videos you refer to also go over how to build up that buffer while you&#x27;re living paycheck to paycheck.<p>Some might be turned off by having to manually input charges, by having to plan a budget each month, by being offended that they &quot;could do the same thing in a weekend with Excel&quot;, but it&#x27;s the best solution I&#x27;ve found for my wife and I. Not automated enough that we get disconnected from finances, but smart enough that we can easily see where we stand and run a few reports on our spending.<p>The system is pretty flexible, there&#x27;s no need to categorize every stick of gum you buy, just use your best judgement and try not to cheat yourself.