There are over 290 million results when you google "personal budget template."
Most people turn to these spreadsheets when they realize their spending is out of control and they're ready to do something about it. Every finance person has their own version, but for the most part, they're all the same. If you haven't found a template that works for you, it's because there isn't one that will.
I have a love affair with Excel and I'm in a flow state when I'm building financial models, but managing my money with a budget template was a waste of time.
So I found a solution that works and I'm certain it's the best way to curb excess spending and develop mindful habits.
While a template might help you get organized and come face-to-face with where you are overspending and to what extent, there's something critical that it won't tell you: why.
Until you surface the underlying thoughts and habitual behaviors that are driving you to spend mindlessly, the fanciest spreadsheet won't cure your money woes.
My solution is sustainable, effortless, and effective - but it requires deep inner work to implement it.
Not everyone will put in the time and effort. They turn to templates for a quick fix. But it's helpful to remember that the best personal finance mechanisms are acutely personal and long-term focused.
Here's a high-level overview of the process I used to get my spending under control:
I surfaced my underlying beliefs and identified related behaviors.
I analyzed my financial results and tied them to my beliefs and behaviors.
I adopted affirmations and mindful money rituals to build new beliefs and habits.
I got clear on the vision of my life and recognized how my spending was misaligned.
I built vision-driven goals for saving and spending.
I used automation and intentional friction to ensure my spending and saving stayed effortlessly aligned with my goals.
I used my calendar to schedule weekly spending pulse checks and monthly financial reviews.
I rewarded myself regularly to celebrate my sustained progress.
Yes, it was a lot of work, but most of it was upfront. Now I spend a fraction of the time managing my money, and the results are 10x better than before.