Budgets & Managing Money Training Outline

Module 1: Money Mindset & Financial Reality Check

Getting Honest About Your Money

• Why most people avoid looking at their finances (and how to get past it)
• Common money myths that keep you broke
• Understanding your personal money story and habits
• The difference between being cheap and being smart with money

Financial Goals That Actually Work

• Setting realistic short-term and long-term goals
• Why "save more money" isn't a real goal
• Breaking big goals into manageable steps
• Handling setbacks without giving up entirely

Module 2: Creating a Budget That Works for Real Life

Budget Basics Without the Overwhelm

• Different budgeting methods: 50/30/20, zero-based, envelope system
• Finding the approach that fits your personality
• Tools and apps vs. pen and paper (what actually works)
• Making your first month's budget

Tracking Income and Expenses

• Categorizing expenses in ways that make sense
• Handling irregular income (freelancers, commission, seasonal work)
• The truth about "small" expenses that add up
• Monthly budget reviews and adjustments

Making Room for Life

• Building in money for fun (yes, really)
• Planning for irregular expenses that always come up
• Handling budget "failures" and getting back on track
• Budgeting as a couple or family

Module 3: Debt Management & Emergency Planning

Getting Out of Debt Strategically

• Debt avalanche vs. debt snowball methods
• Negotiating with creditors and understanding your options
• When to consider debt consolidation
• Avoiding common debt payoff mistakes

Building Your Safety Net

• How much emergency fund you actually need
• Where to keep emergency money
• Building an emergency fund when money is already tight
• Using your emergency fund without guilt

Credit and Credit Scores

• How credit scores really work
• Improving your credit without gimmicks
• Using credit cards responsibly
• Reading and understanding credit reports

Module 4: Growing Your Money & Planning Ahead

Basic Investing for Beginners

• Investment basics without the jargon
• Understanding risk and return
• 401(k)s, IRAs, and retirement planning
• When you're ready to start investing (and when you're not)

Big Financial Decisions

• Rent vs. buy considerations
• Car buying strategies that save money
• Insurance needs and avoiding over-insurance
• Planning for major life changes

Long-Term Financial Health

• Teaching kids about money
• Estate planning basics everyone needs
• Protecting yourself from financial scams
• Continuing your financial education

Hands-On Components Throughout:

• Personal budget creation and refinement
• Debt payoff calculators and planning tools
• Monthly financial check-ins and goal tracking
• Real-world scenarios and problem-solving exercises

Assessment & Progress Tracking:

• Personal financial assessment
• Monthly budget performance reviews
• Goal achievement milestones
• Financial confidence self-evaluations

What You'll Walk Away With:

• A personalized budget that actually works for your life
• Clear debt payoff plan (if applicable)
• Emergency fund started or fully funded
• Confidence in making financial decisions
• Systems for ongoing money management

Advanced Optional Topics:

• Small business and side hustle finances
• Tax planning and optimization
• Real estate investing basics
• Advanced investment strategies

Resource Library:

• Budget templates and worksheets
• Recommended apps and tools
• Calculator guides for loans, investments, and savings
• Emergency fund and debt payoff trackers

Note: This program works regardless of your current income level. Focus is on practical strategies and building sustainable habits rather than complex financial theory. No prior financial knowledge required.