The Saturday afternoon breeze carried the scent of fresh filter coffee as Vardaan dropped by Astraea’s studio with a question buzzing in his head.
“Astraea, I’ve realized I’m kind of winging it when it comes to my business expenses. I think I need a real budget, but… where do I even begin?”
Astraea set down her spreadsheet and smiled. “Ah, music to a financial planner’s ears. Budgeting isn’t just for large corporations. Every startup and solopreneur needs one to stay sane, solvent, and successful.”
Why Building a Budget Matters
“Isn’t a budget just a list of what I’m spending?” Vardaan asked.
“Well, yes… and no,” Astraea said. “A good business budget gives you control, clarity, and confidence. It helps you plan smartly, avoid overspending, and prepare for the unexpected. It’s your financial GPS.”
The 5 Essential Steps to Build a Business Budget
1. Know Your Numbers
“Start by listing all your revenue sources—monthly sales, service income, even side gigs related to your business. Be realistic, especially if your income fluctuates.”
2. Track Fixed and Variable Costs
“Write down your fixed expenses like rent, salaries, subscriptions, and EMIs. Then note your variable costs—marketing, packaging, travel, utilities. These change month-to-month but are equally important.”
3. Set Financial Goals
“What are you working toward?” Astraea asked. “Want to buy equipment? Expand? Hire talent? Your goals will shape how much you can spend or save each month.”
4. Include a Contingency Fund
“Always budget for the unexpected. Business is unpredictable. A 5–10% buffer helps you handle surprises—repairs, missed payments, delays.”
5. Review and Adjust Monthly
“This isn’t a one-time document,” Astraea added. “Review your budget every month. See what worked, what didn’t, and make changes. Flexibility is key.”
Why 21DEGREES Helps You Budget with Confidence
Vardaan leaned back. “Okay, this makes sense. But between operations and marketing, I barely get time to breathe. Isn’t this overwhelming for a solo founder?”
Astraea nodded. “That’s exactly where 21DEGREES steps in. We make business budgeting simple, strategic, and stress-free.”
As Vardaan sipped his coffee, a sense of control settled in.
“So a budget isn’t about restriction… it’s about intention.”
“Exactly,” Astraea smiled. “And with the right partner, budgeting becomes less about numbers and more about freedom.”
