This is not a “cute budgeting tips” post
If you’ve got $5,000 sitting in savings, you’re not in survival mode.
I’m talking about being flat broke. No backup plan. Rent due. Stomach tight with anxiety.
When you’re here, you don’t need “advice.” You need a plan that stops the bleeding today.
Step 1: Know Your Bare Minimum Number
This is the total cost of your absolute essentials:
- Rent / housing
- Utilities
- Groceries
- Minimum debt payments
- Transportation (if you need it to earn money)
If it’s not essential to your survival or earning ability, it doesn’t make this list.
Step 2: Cut Everything Else — Now
- Cancel subscriptions
- Pause streaming services
- Delay “fun” purchases until your Dreams Bucket is funded again
You’ll be shocked at how much you were bleeding on “small” stuff.
Step 3: Pay in Buckets
Every dollar you earn goes into Bucket 1 first — your Parachute.
When that’s funded for the month, only then do you move on to growth and dreams.
Step 4: Track Every Dollar
I’m not telling you to journal your feelings here — I’m telling you to track every cent like your life depends on it. Because it does.
Free Tool: My Survival Budget Spreadsheet (part of the free 3-Bucket Starter Pack) will calculate this for you and tell you exactly how much you need to cover Bucket 1.
Step 5: Revisit Weekly
Your budget isn’t a set-and-forget. Check it every week. Adjust. Stay in control.
