Budgeting – the dreaded “B” word that strikes fear into the hearts of many, everywhere.
We get it, keeping track of your finances isn’t exactly thrilling. But what if we told you that budgeting doesn’t have to be a total buzz-kill?
First things first, let’s invalidate the myth that budgeting means living off Indomie and never leaving your apartment again. Sure, cutting back on those daily Java runs might be a good idea, but budgeting is all about finding a balance. It’s about being mindful of your spending habits and making sure your money is going towards the things that truly matter to you.
So, where do you start? Well, grab your notebook and get ready to embrace your inner finance nerd, because we’re about to break it down for you.
Step 1: Track Your Spending
Knowledge is power. Before you can create a budget, you need to know where your money is actually going. Download a budgeting app (an example is Goodbudget ) or good old Excel, and start tracking every single shilling you spend. From your monthly Netflix subscription to that impromptu Glovo order, leave no stone unturned.
Step 2: Categorize Your Expenses
Once you’ve got a handle on your spending habits, it’s time to get organized. Categorize your expenses into things like rent, groceries, entertainment, transportation, and so on. This will help you see where your money is being allocated and where you might be able to cut back.
Step 3: Set Financial Goals
Budgeting isn’t just about cutting costs – it’s about setting yourself up for success. What are your short-term and long-term financial goals? Do you want to save up for a down payment on a house or a car? Pay off loans? Whatever it is, write it down and make it a priority in your budget.
Step 4: Pay Yourself First
No, we’re not talking about splurging on that new pair of shoes or “Kupigia mwili pole” as we Kenyans love to put it. We’re talking about paying into your savings and investment accounts before you spend on anything else. Set up automatic transfers from your current account to your savings or investment accounts, and watch your money grow. For all those with an entrepreneurial mind, you can invest in your business.
Step 5: Have Fun with It
Budgeting doesn’t have to be a drag – in fact, it can be downright empowering. Embrace your inner money nerd and get creative with it. Use fun categories like “YOLO Fund” to make it feel less like a chore and more like a game.
At the end of the day, budgeting is all about taking control of your finances and setting yourself up for long-term success. And let’s be real, who doesn’t want to be a financially savvy, independent adult who can afford all the avocado toast their heart desires? Plus, with a solid budget in place, you’ll never have to miss out on those epic weekend adventures or spontaneous road trips with your squad.
So, dear reader, it’s time to step up your budgeting game. Embrace the spreadsheets, track those expenses, and watch your money mindfulness soar. Because let’s face it, being broke is so not on-trend.
Should you wish to get some more financial guidance , we’re here for you at Springboard Capital. We’ve had years of hands-on experience in the financial space and can offer insightful tips on how to navigate said space. We also offer various loan products such as Business Loan, Emergency Loan, Asset Financing, Salaried Loan, Loan against Logbook, Import Duty Financing or Title Deed Loan, to help grow and manage all operations. Contact us today at 0700 944 444 or WhatsApp us through the button below, or email us at info@springboardcapital.co.ke.
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Article written by Daniella Aswani.- Daniella is a Marketing professional with a Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing ,and has an interest in Brand Marketing, Social Media Marketing and Public relations. She enjoys innovation and coming up with new creative ideas.
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