Create a Budget: Step 9 -- LAST ONE!

The first step to financial health is to create a budget. Here are some mini-bites to begin creating a budget that works and you can live with.

9. Screw Up!

Ever heard anyone say, "We were on a budget and then __(insert surprise and expensive event)__ throwing it all off!"

Yeah, that's called real life. In the next three months, your budget will learn to flex with it. I expect you (and/or your spouse) to screw up the plan here and there. I tell you this so you won't be disheartened when it happens. This is normal. When you screw up, it means that you are at least working the budget concept.


When you hit a glitch, THIS IS GREAT! You are testing it out and trying something new. Like an infant, you get up to get to a toy and trip and maybe cry. Will you stay on your bum crying and promise to never allow yourself to fail again?

NO!

You will keep working it until your little budget legs get stronger and you develop confidence in your balance. (ha ha)

For he will give unto the faithful line upon line, precept upon precept; and I will try you and prove you herewith.

Doctrine & Covenants 98:12

Your budget will fail for about 3 months as you adjust for behavior. Surprises will still come up, and you will find that you spend a lot more in groceries than you anticipated. But have hope; three months is enough time to learn some tips and tricks I learned along the way. For now, just get up and walk!


This is the end of the basic "Create a Budget" series. In the coming weeks, I will post tips to help you see money in a different light and make the budget adjustment hurt a little less.