Quick recap: In Part One of this three-part series we did an overview of why The Budget is so important (answer: stewardship), dispelled The Budget’s nasty reputation, and identified what The Budget actually is.  We also laid out a few action steps.  I’d love to know if any of you decided to track your spending and expenses, took a hard look at any debt, or defined some goals! Assuming that you did one or more of those things, now is the time to put your newfound information to good use.  This month is the first month of the rest of your financial life!  This month you’re going to bring a…

Let’s talk about The Budget.  No, I did not just swear at you.  It’s going to be fine.  In so many households, “budget” is a dirty word.  It denotes deprivation, poverty, and Ramen noodles.  Friends, it does not have to be this way!  The Budget is a valuable and frequently misunderstood tool in your belt.  Today we’re going to lay the groundwork for an effective, long-lasting budgeting habit.  We’ll talk about why The Budget is so important, what The Budget is not, and what The Budget is.  At the end I’ll give you some clear, boots-on-the-ground action steps.