The initial tendency is to create an unrealistic budget, one that makes no provision for variables like clothes, dentists, doctors, or entertainment. To do so will only frustrate your efforts, cause your budget to fail, and cause you and your spouse to lose confidence in budgeting. The next tendency is to create a budget—and then stop! There is no magic in a budget; it is only a written expression of what you must do to be a good steward. Action is required to make it work, and you may need to make sacrifices to live within your budget. Two budgets are actually necessary. The first determines your present status. The second determines your goals (a budget based on spendable income). If you are really serious about being the best steward possible, then a budget is necessary. But no amount of intention is effective without action. Steps to Making a Budget In making and using a budget, there are several logical steps, each requiring individual effort. A sample from for budgeting is shown in figure 1. Use this form to guide your budget preparation. Step 1—List Expenditures in the Home on a Monthly Basis. A. Fixed Expense—These include: - Tithe - Federal income taxes (if taxes are deducted, ignore this item) - State income taxes (if taxes are deducted, ignore this item) - Federal Social Security taxes (if taxes are deducted, ignore this item) - Housing expense (payment/rent) - Residence taxes - Residence insurance - Other B. Variable Expenses. - Food - Outstanding debts - Utilities - Insurance (life, health, auto) - Entertainment, recreation - Clothing allowance - Medical—dental - Savings - Miscellaneous

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