Setting Financial Goals and Budgeting
Want to know the secret to financial success? Start with clear goals. The most achievable financial goals are specific, time-based, personally meaningful, and written positively. Think about both short-term goals (less than 6 months) and longer-term goals that require more time and money.
Your income—the money coming in—makes your financial goals possible. This might come from jobs, selling things, allowance, interest from accounts, or gifts. Knowing exactly how much you earn is the first step in creating a realistic plan.
A budget is simply your saving and spending plan. It shows how much money you have, where it goes, what your financial goals are, and your progress toward them. Creating one isn't complicated: track your income and spending for at least a month to see your actual financial habits.
💪 You've got this! When setting up your budget, separate your expenses into fixed expenses (same each month, like subscriptions) and flexible expenses (vary monthly, like entertainment). Include a savings category to ensure you're building toward your goals!