Consumer Week highlights the importance of buyers understanding their rights and the best way to manage purchases. According to data released by Serasa (2024), over 73 million adults in Brazil are in debt. Economist and professor of the Administration course at UNINASSAU Recife, Graças campus, Alfredo Menezes, provides tips on how to be mindful and avoid debt.
“It is essential to note and structure finances in order to control what comes into the budget, whether fixed or side jobs. This is a way to organize yourself so that expenses do not exceed earnings,” explains the expert.
According to the professional, managing money is a practice that, although basic, can become the solution for many people who are disorganized with their finances. It is crucial to avoid buying unnecessary products, consumables, food, or hiring unnecessary services, as they weigh in at the end of the month and end up compromising the budget.
“Organization and planning are crucial to keeping the budget on track. List expenses in order of priority and always have an emergency reserve in case of any extreme need,” he adds.
Finally, the professor details the importance of setting clear financial goals and differentiating between needs and wants. “Define short, medium, and long-term goals, such as paying off debts, taking a trip, or starting private retirement savings. Before making a purchase, ask yourself if it is truly necessary or just a momentary desire,” concludes Alfredo Menezes.