[ Step 1 ] [ Step 2 ] [ Step 3 ] [ Step 4 ] [ Step 5 ] [ Step 6 ] [ Step 7 ] [ Step 8 ] [ Step 9 ] [ Step 10 ]

Control Your Spending

Nothing causes more trouble in a home than money!  I also firmly believe that the condition of your checkbook reflects the condition of your entire home.  If you struggle in this area, let's discuss some ways to make it better.

First, you absolutely need to have a budget and stick to it!  Here is an article to help you get started:

Making a Budget

Your husband might have asked you to handle the ins-and-outs of money in your home, and that's fine, since you're the God-ordained home manager.  But please, talk over your budget with your husband.  Don't keep secrets from him in this important area!  Make sure he approves all your plans and all your purchases.

Once you have a budget, you need to make sure you schedule time (here we go again...) and organizational space to maintaining it.  

Finally, if you're struggling because you'd like to be a stay-at-home mom but the budget just won't work without your second income, read this article for hope!

Helping Mom Stay Home

Getting control of your spending ensures that you will sleep better at night, you'll enjoy a trusting relationship with your spouse again, and you'll be able to help provide for your family.  What could be better?

Now let's add the following books to your reading list:

Family Financial Workbook, by Larry Burkett

You CAN Afford to Stay Home with Your Kids, by Malia McCawley Wyckoff and Mary Snyder

Now let's do Step Eight...