Episode 16: Part 4 of the Budgeting Series

Budgeting for Big Dreams, Not Big Stress

Introduction

• [Music fades in]
• Recap the journey through the January budgeting series: steps to take control, tools for tracking, and now, how to save for your biggest dreams.
• Teaser: Whether it’s launching your dream salon suite, upgrading your tools, or taking that once-in-a-lifetime trip, today we’re diving deep into how to turn big financial goals into reality—without the stress.

Segment 1: Dream Big with a Plan

• The importance of dreaming big: Your dreams fuel your motivation. They’re what make budgeting exciting instead of just another chore.
• Define your dream:
• Is it business-focused? (e.g., expanding services, buying equipment)
• Is it personal? (e.g., a family vacation, building a safety net)
• How much will it cost?
• Action Step: Break your dream into a tangible financial goal.
• Example: A $5,000 salon renovation might feel overwhelming, but over a year, it’s $417 a month.

Segment 2: Reverse-Engineer Your Savings Goal

• Set a timeline:
• How soon do you want to achieve your goal?
• Consider realistic milestones.
• Calculate your monthly savings target:
• Divide the total cost by the number of months in your timeline.
• Include this amount as a non-negotiable in your budget.
• Example: Example: A $5,000 salon renovation might feel overwhelming, but over a year, it’s $417 a month.

PERSONAL Example - Saving for a $3,000 vacation over 18 months? That’s just $167 per month.

Segment 3: Cut Costs & add Income Without Sacrificing Joy

• Identify areas to trim:
• Fixed expenses: renegotiate contracts or cut unused subscriptions.
• Variable expenses: make small sacrifices, like fewer takeout meals.
• Be mindful of cost cutting efforts - weigh your time to cost ratio
• Creative cost-saving ideas:
• DIY projects: Instead of buying decor for your salon, make it a fun craft day.
• Reminder on loyalty/rewards programs.
• Add in income streams like treatment days BTC. 
• Do not discount your service but try talking about a new experience or a Treat Yo-self campaign in the salon.  Do you have treatments laying around? Or add on service options?
• Action Step: Redirect savings into a dedicated fund.
• Open a separate account or use an envelope system with a fireproof safe

Segment 4: Make Your Money Work for YouAutomate your savings:

• Set up recurring transfers to your goal account.
• Look for additional income streams:
• Take extra clients, sell unused equipment, or monetize a skill.
• Invest wisely:
• If your timeline is over a year, consider a high-yield savings account to grow your money faster. (please speak to your trusted advisor on this!!)
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Segment 5: Stay Inspired and Accountable

• Visualize your progress:
• Use a dream board or savings tracker.
• Celebrate small wins along the way.
• Share your goal:
• Tell a trusted friend or accountability partner or find a stylist that has similar goals and set a day/time to text each other your weekly goals.
• Stay flexible:
• Life happens. If you need to adjust your timeline, that’s okay—just don’t give up.

Conclusion

• Recap actionable steps:

1. Define your dream.
2. Break it into a savings goal.
3. Trim costs, add income and redirect savings.
4. Automate your savings.
5. Stay inspired and accountable.

• Actionable takeaway: Dream big, start small, and stay consistent. You’ll be amazed at how quickly you can turn your vision into reality.
• Reminder to download the budgeting series freebies!!

1. Expense Tracker for Independent Stylists https://heatherpod.kit.com/705f2f912f 
2. Budget Guidelines https://heatherpod.kit.com/c9f316e834 
3. Personal Expense Tracker https://heatherpod.kit.com/8650607451February we will get into everything from gaining more clients - boundaries - increasing income and setting goals! PLUS keep your eyes open for Thursdays BONUS episode on personal budgeting basics!

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