When I made my first budget, it was absolutely ridiculous and didn't reflect my lifestyle at all. I based it on unrealistic goals, and I didn't take into account certain things that bring me joy in life like coffee and eating nutritious food that doesn't taste like cardboard. While I still don't stick to my budget 100% of the time, life is always easier for me when I have a plan! Here are some of the tricks I use to keep myself on a realistic budget.

Make Your Budget

It can seem daunting to go through every single dollar you make and spend. Money can trigger a lot of stress, so think about it carefully and calmly. Set aside a specific amount of time each month to evaluate the past thirty days and look forward to the next. Using a budget planner is a great way to physically write out all of your income and track monthly expenses. It's also a good way to track your expected budget versus what you actually spend throughout the month.  Here's a few ways you can break down your budget sections:

• Income - List out every job, gig, and the total expected pay.
• Savings - Try to put an amount into your savings for an emergency fund. You can also add in a little extra if you're saving up for something special like a new pair of dance shoes or a new hardcover Bärenreiter. Try out our Savings Worksheet if you like being a little more visual!
• Debt - Paying back credit cards or student loans can be scary, but you should always have a plan to keep them in your monthly budget.
• Housing, Utilities, & Transportation - These expenses tend to be about the same every month with slight variations.
• Music - Lessons, coachings, and auditions can be expensive. Put aside a little money each month to go towards them to not pay for it all at once.
• Food - Be realistic when you're thinking about how much you grocery shop or go out to eat with friends.
• Shopping & Entertainment - Set aside some "fun money" so that you don't feel stuck.
• Miscellaneous - Do you have a pet? Like to travel? Have a gym membership or other expenses? Put them here.

Sticking to Your Budget

Now comes the most challenging part: following through on all the hard work you just put in. While eating out and going to a coffee shop every day can feel quite glamorous, it takes a serious chunk out of your monthly budget. Plan what days you're eating out and what days you're packing a lunch! Bringing your own food is a great idea for long rehearsal days. Pack it in a bento box the night before and enjoy it on your breaks. Want a bonus? Bring your own utensils and to help save the planet from some plastic waste while you're at it! For some delicious recipes, check out the Modern Singer Cookbook.

When it comes to coffee, I am an absolute addict. I love getting a latte from a shop and sipping it throughout rehearsal, but realistically, I shouldn't be buying a coffee five days a week. Over the past few years, I've learned some useful tricks for making coffee at home. During long rehearsal days when I know I'll be working up a sweat, I like having a cold coffee. I add in a little bit of cinnamon while it's brewing to make it taste more like a cinnamon roll! When I just need a cup while I'm trying to wake up in the morning, nothing is faster than an AeroPress; it makes your perfect cup of coffee in seconds and you're ready to hit the road to work. Take your delicious beverage to work or rehearsal with you in a travel mug to get through early mornings and long days.

Don't Spend All Your Time Stressing

"Every accomplishment starts with the decision to try." -John F. Kennedy

Sticking to a budget is hard. From unexpected auditions to cast parties to emergency store runs, it's not always possible to plan every step of your life. While it is important to keep an eye on your money, it isn't the be-all and end-all of life. It's okay to not be perfect. Go back each month to evaluate where you're spending and continue moving forward towards your financial goals.