When I coach people on overall wellness, one topic that always comes up is financial wellness. Why? Because financial stress doesn’t just affect your bank account—it spills into your mental and emotional health, often impacting your ability to focus, relax, and even sleep.
One of the most valuable lessons I took away from my first marriage was learning how to budget and manage finances. Back then, life was simple. Our expenses were straightforward: rent, utilities, insurance, gas, and groceries. We didn’t have credit card debt or expenses like car payments, student loans, or the endless subscriptions that seem to multiply these days. Budgeting in those days was as basic as writing numbers on a post-it note and balancing a literal checkbook (it was the early 2000s, after all).
But as I got older, life became more complicated. New responsibilities came with bigger expenses, and the balancing act between wants and needs became trickier. My trusty post-it notes and checkbook system just didn’t cut it anymore. That’s when I started building a more detailed system—a method that evolved with my life and that I now share with others.
My Budgeting and Finance Management Tool
I’ve created a simple, customizable spreadsheet that’s easy to use, even if you’re new to budgeting. It’s the same method I use today to track my finances. Here’s how to get started:
- Open and Copy the Spreadsheet: Checkbook Template
- Add Your Expenses: List out all your recurring expenses, like rent, groceries, subscriptions, and debts. Don’t forget to include savings and emergency funds!
- Track Your Income: Input all your sources of income so you can see your full financial picture.
- Calculate and Adjust: Identify areas where you can cut back or reallocate funds.
- Revisit Often: Update your spreadsheet weekly (or daily if needed) to stay on top of your financial wellness.
If you’re more of a visual learner, I’ve also created a step-by-step video guide to walk you through the process:
📹 Budgeting and Finance Management
Why This Method Works
I’m not claiming this is the ultimate budgeting solution, but it’s a tool that has worked for me—and it’s free to use and customize to fit your family’s needs. Sure, there are paid tools and apps out there, but if you’re feeling overwhelmed by managing your finances, this is a great starting point that won’t cost you a dime.
Finding Financial Wellness
Financial wellness doesn’t mean you have to be rich. It’s about feeling in control of your money instead of letting it control you. By creating a clear plan and consistently revisiting it, you can reduce financial stress and start working toward your bigger goals.
What’s your go-to method for managing your finances? Will you give this spreadsheet a try? I’d love to hear your thoughts and ideas in the comments!
