You don't have to budget. You certainly don't have to do it one specific way.
But if you're stressing about money too much, it might be worth asking yourself: what do you want a budget to do for you? Can we set up some kind of plan, system, or tool that helps you think about money less, while prioritizing the things that are most important to you?
If your budget feels like a diet, throw it out. If it feels like a test you're failing, throw it out. If it doesn't include ample self-compassion, then I don't want it!
For me, I want a budget system that:
- Helps me decide whether to buy a bubble tea, or donate to a gofundme, or take on another client, when I'm in the moment of those financial decisions
- Makes sure I'll have the money I need for rent available on the day that I need it
- Helps me save up for things that I want in the future, like a tattoo or a house down payment
- Helps me understand how a big decision like buying a car or moving into a more expensive apartment might affect my ability to pay for bubble tea or a tattoo
- Generally, have money take up the right amount of space in my brain
Maybe you want a budget to do these things for you too, or maybe you want something else! So let's start by thinking through what you want, and then build a system and plan that feels supportive instead of restrictive.
We'll talk about: 1. What is a budget? What do you want a budget to do for you?
2. How to figure out your expenses
3. How to make a plan for debt, savings, and giving
4. Making a budget plan
5. Creating a budget system or tool
With the opportunity to ask all of your questions!
This workshop (and the Q&A) will be recorded for you, so that you can refer back to it as many times as you need!
Important disclaimers: This workshop is purely educational, and should not be interpreted as financial or tax advice. All content is designed primarily for people in the US, although people outside the US might also benefit from the workshop.