Kumiko Love Instagram – Before I create my budget, there is one thing I never skip and always do. I create a roadmap for my spending. So, let’s talk about why I create a budget calendar and what things I always put on it. Creating a calendar is an excellent reminder that a budget is not for paying the bills. Completing this step before planning your spending on a budget ensures you are prepared and ready for REAL LIFE. You are less likely to forget expenses that are coming up. I always include the following things: #1) Fixed Expenses or my bills. This is helpful because I can use different highlighter colors to identify what bills I am paying for different paychecks. For example, highlight all of the bills you are paying with your first paycheck in blue. Highlight all of the bills you are paying for your second paycheck in yellow. #2) Events. If you have an event like your kid’s soccer game, a work lunch, or dinner with friends, write it down and what you plan to spend. #3) Reminders. I like to write down things that could affect my budget, such as meal planning, setting up a vet appointment for one of my dogs, or needing to call and schedule a doctor’s appointment. #4) Holidays. Hopefully, you are prepared for holiday spending with sinking funds, but if you aren’t, keep track of the holidays and write down a dedicated budget for each. #5)Appointments. Don’t forget copays, medical expenses, or beauty appointments. #6) Travel. I always like to mark down my traveling days with my estimated vacation budget. This is helpful because it will affect other areas of my budget, like grocery spending. Your budget calendar is your real-life spending roadmap. If you plan on spending money on something, it should be on your calendar!! #thebudgetmom #budget #budgettips #budgetbypaycheck #budgetbypaycheckmethod #budgetbypaycheckworkbook #budgeting101 #budgetingforbeginners