You’ve figured out your income and started learning about needs vs. wants — now it’s time to put it all together with a simple budget! Budgeting might sound boring, but it’s actually super empowering. It’s like a glow-up for your money. Let’s get into it!
The 50/30/20 Rule: Budgeting Made Easy
This popular rule is a total game-changer. It breaks your income into three easy categories:
- 50% for Needs: This includes essentials like lunch, school supplies, transportation, or even a small phone bill.
- 30% for Wants: This is the fun stuff! Think makeup, concerts, boba, or cute outfits.
- 20% for Savings: This is your future money — whether it’s for a big purchase, emergency fund, or even investing one day.
💡 Example: If you get $100 a month from a part-time job or allowance:
- $50 goes toward needs
- $30 is for wants
- $20 goes into savings
You can adjust the percentages a little based on your lifestyle, but this is a great place to start!
Budgeting Apps That Make Life Easier
Good news: you don’t have to do this all in your head (or even on paper). There are apps that do the heavy lifting for you:
- Mint – Tracks your spending and helps set goals
- YNAB (You Need A Budget) – Great for detailed planning and saving
- BusyKid – Perfect for teens; helps manage allowance and spending
- GoHenry – Comes with a debit card and built-in budgeting tools for teens
These tools can help you see where your money’s going and keep you from overspending — so you don’t accidentally drop $40 on takeout in a week.
Why a Simple Budget = A Powerful You
Creating a budget doesn’t mean giving up what you love — it means planning for it. With a budget, you can:
- Afford the things that matter to you
- Stop stressing over money
- Set exciting financial goals (like a shopping spree, new tech, or even a summer trip!)
You don’t need to be a financial expert to start budgeting — just start. And remember, every smart money move you make now sets you up for major success later. Let your budget be the blueprint to your glow-up!
Her Financial Future 