The discipline of completing a budget will help you to focus on your money issues.
Having your finances on paper will help you to understand what is needed to live your life comfortably and within your means.
Budgeting saves money in the long run because...

• It helps you to avoid buying on impulse.
  Consider seriously if you need the goods or if you want it for some other reason.
  Can you do without it? If you really need an item then plan for it in your budget.
  Learn to distinguish between a "need" and not a "want" and put that money aside until you can purchase it.
  Sometimes this can seem like a gray area but be honest with yourself and you will find you spend less.
  
• If you only use your credit card for items planned in your budget you know that you can repay the debt when due next month.
  This saves on paying interest charges which are amongst the highest rates.
  
• It encourages self-control.
  When you have self-control you are more likely to save rather than spend.
  
• Having a budget in place makes you are aware of your monthly expenses.
  You can see if you are blowing your budget by spending too much, and in what areas.
  You can then take steps to control your spending.
  
• Habits are created by putting money aside regularly.
  In your budget set up a regular deduction so that a percentage of your income goes to savings; for an emergency fund, a specific goal and retirement.
  
• You can calculate the money needed for your goals and include this in your budget.
  Work out the amount you need to achieve your goals in the time frame you require.
  For example if you want to save $1,200 for next year you will need to put aside $100 a month.
  
• You have a record of your monthly utility bills and can make enquiries with rival companies to see if it is possible to save by lowering the monthly costs.
  
• When you do a budget you must list your out-goings and subtract this from your income.
  In this way you will know if there are problems and can work out ways to reduce your discretionary spending.
  

The mere fact of having to list your expenses you will no longer find that you spend money without thinking.
It makes you more aware and you will find budgeting saves money.