Numbers speak.
Tonight I took all of the numbers from the past year and
After completing the spreadsheet, I took about 20 minutes to stare at the numbers and averages. Now I can plan.
Going to school this February I need to know with precise understanding where my finances are and where they need to be.
Numbers don’t lie. Sometimes we don’t like what they are telling us. If you have budgeted before, you probably understand the illusion of thinking you know when you are recording the details.
There is nothing like exactness in financial records to make illusion and well wishing disappear.
Emotionally it can be a shock, if we don’t like what the number say… like what I experienced a moment ago. But truth and accuracy are our friends. They give us the ability to respond with accurate emotion and logic to our present scenario. They give us the ability to know what we need financially for self care. To love yourself and take care of yourself, you need to provide for yourself financially. Part of that equation is knowing the score.
Knowing the score means you know what your expenses will be and you keep your income and goals aimed at you goals in light of your expenditures. You don’t turn a blind eye and get lost in illusion. You keep both eyes open and diligent towards your needs and desires.
Knowing the score also means you know what to pray about and you can feel the positives when you excel your income goals and reduce your expenses.
Simply put, knowing the score allows you to be grounded and know what you need to be secure financially.
I recognize that planning is only one component, but it is a wise component. God can help us in our endeavors but it seems we find more help when we are prepared and clear of what we need and where we need to be.
I purpose to daily know the score and keep diligent records. This way I won’t be caught unaware and I can say no to additional expenses that would put undo strain on me financially.
I’d highly recommend reading the book: The Richest Man in Babylon.
My youth pastor many years ago, taught from this book. It would have been wise of me to read it often. But I’m revisiting it now, and thankful for the wisdom.
What is your financial score today? Do you know?