7 Simple Steps to Creating a Budget that Works for You

Personal Finance

May 15, 2023

7 Simple Steps to Creating a Budget that Works for You

The best way to start to financial planning and taking control of your finances is to have a budget. Creating a financial plan that outlines your income and expenses, can help you manage your money, save for the future, and helps you achieve financial goals. There are many different types of budgets that you can choose from. However, here are seven steps to creating a budget.

First Step to Create Your Budget: Determine Your Income

7 Simple Steps to Creating a Budget and financial plan that Works for You to reach your financial goals

To create your budget, the first step you should take is to figure out your income. What is included in your income? Well it should include your salary, bonuses or commissions, money from investments, and any other sources of income you have. Once you have your list, add up your gross income for the month. For incomes that vary, estimate based on your average monthly earnings.

Step Two: Track Your Expenses

The next step in creating your financial plan is to track your expenses. This includes everything you spend money on, from rent and utilities to groceries and entertainment. You want to get an accurate picture of your expenses, so track them for at least a month or two. If you want to track them manually, keep a log of all your purchases. On the other hand if you want to track electronically you can use a budgeting app or software to track your expenses automatically.

Step Three: Categorize Your Expenses

Once you have a list of your expenses, the next step is to categorize them. Categorizing will help you see where your money is going and can help identify where you can cut back, if needed. Many expenses can be categorized into housing, utilities, transportation, food, entertainment, and debt. In order to ensure you get a clear picture of your spending, you want to ensure that you include all your expenses, even the small ones like coffee and snacks.

Step Four: Calculate Your Monthly Expenses

Afterwards, add up your expenses for each category to get your total monthly expenses. Doing this will give you an idea of how much is needed in order to cover your basic needs. If your expenses exceed your income, then you may need to cut back and adjust your spending habits or find ways to increase your income.

Step Five: Set Your Financial Goals

Now it is time for you to set financial goals. The best way to set your goals is to use the S.M.A.R.T method. This means that they should be specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. For example, if you want to set a goal of paying off your credit card, you need to ensure you answer all the S.M.A.R.T areas. Therefore, you would pay off your $6000 credit card debt, which you know you can afford, in 6 months. In addition, whatever your goals are, make sure they also align with your values and priorities.

Step Six: Allocate Your Income to Your Categories and Goals

Finally, you can allocate your income to your expense categories and financial goals. Ensure your main monthly expenses are taken care of by subtracting your total monthly expenses from your income. The remaining amount is your disposable income. This extra income can be used to achieve your financial goals, based on priority.

Step Seven: Review and Adjust Periodically

A key thing to remember is that creating a budget is an ongoing process. You want to ensure that you review your budget regularly, especially after major changes like promotions etc. This will help you stay on track to meet your financial goals. For example, after a review, you may find that you’re overspending in certain categories. This means you will have to look for ways to cut back. After any changes in your income, remember to adjust your budget accordingly.

With these steps, you can create a personalized budget that will help you manage your money, save, and achieve your financial goals. Budgeting is a key component of financial education and financial planning. Don’t forget that there are many resources available online, through financial advisors, budgeting apps, and personal finance blogs like this one.