Starting to track expenses is like tackling that junk closet or drawer. You know that one. It’s chock-full of treasures that are hidden and clutter that’s messy and taking up room. By cleaning out the closet or drawer, you get a chance to organize and assess. Creating a budget is no different. You’ll see more clearly what’s worth your precious dollars, and what’s not. Starting a simple Log Book is an easy first step.

For You

Find a journal with a beautiful cover. Open to the first page and label it “Day One.” Then starting on the first Monday, write down your expenses as you go through the day. Write the amount and the category. Then do a tally on Sunday. Just let the numbers soak in. And ask yourself: Am I spending on the things that matter most?

For Your Team

Once you’ve gone through the Log Book exercise, share your experience with team members at a team meeting. Let them know what “the reckoning” helped you see. If possible, purchase journals for all team members and encourage them to go through the same exercise. Consider offering one-on-one meetings to discuss their discoveries.