At YNAB there is a document called the Vision Doc, which spells out the "commander's intent" for the company, how to behave and act on the company's behalf. Employees must make many decisions on a day to day basis, but with a clear commander's intent they have the freedom to make those smaller decisions while adhering to the company's greater goal.

It's useful to develop the same commander's intent for your budget. With a clear goal and aim for the budget, it becomes easier to make those small, day to day money decisions that, as we know, can add up to big dollars over the course of a year!

Sign up for a free 34-day trial of YNAB at www.youneedabudget.com