Budget Bootcamp + Budget Audit

I almost didn’t sign up for Charissa’s Bootcamp. To my core, I believed I was a total hot-mess failure, and because our finances are so foundational in our lives, much of this feeling of failure bled over into almost every of my life. If I had one word to describe my life then, it would be overwhelmed. Overwhelmed-scattered- failure. I felt my only option was to run faster, run harder, yet that didn’t work either, as I was all still an unorganized mess and that led to being tired and burned out. Over the years, I purchased and attended so many budgeting programs and bought so many personal finance books that I can’t fit them all in my bookcase—all had promises to help me get out of debt and live the life of my dreams. I followed the plan and then get stuck and because I couldn’t make the numbers work, I would quit the program and even worse, I added another program to my big fat failure list. Defeated yet again. More confirmation that I was a overwhelmed-scattered-failure.

Someone I trusted recommend Charissa’s bootcamp, I prayed about it and I signed up. Since I work on commission and my paydays are totally inconsistent, I have never been able to figure out a way to organize my money because paychecks are so stinkin’ irregular and sometimes it feels like forever between paychecks. Charissa helped me develop a plan of action and to my shock---it works! She cut through all the past feelings of money failure, fear and dread into stress-free easy money management! Now I WANT to spend time budgeting because I love the feeling of peace and knowing that my bills are paid on time and I know exactly where my money is going. Charissa will help you get to this place too and she will not judge you as you pour out your money struggles. She prays for you! She uses scripture to guide you on your personal money path so that we can live our lives to honor Christ. Charissa helped me find Godly foundational truths that completely turned around my money struggles. Since I’ve struggled for years with budgeting, I expected it to take *forever* to get a plan in place, but NO—I’m telling you the truth—in 3 weeks my life has been totally turned around! Yes, I still have debt to pay, but the plan is in place and I know I what I need to do to get to where I want to be. My overwhelm-scattered-failure feeling has lifted (though truthfully, it does come back to visit from time to time, but it’s so much better than it was!) I know what’s important to live my best life to honor God and my family. Charissa helped me get to the core issues and develop a plan to get there! It’s hard to believe that just 3 weeks ago, I was scattered, confused and had no direction.

As soon as my money started falling into place, everything else started becoming easier too. One of the biggest changes were family birthdays -they became easier because the money was there to buy gifts and celebrate--no guilt, and spending on birthday gifts was truly enjoyable! I feel more grounded now. I feel more peace, joy and confidence. For me, money used to have so much emotional baggage attached to it and Charissa helped me cut through all the crazy emotions and think more level-headed. I don’t stress out so much about bills because I know when they are due and I have a plan to get them paid on time. I am a work in progress and it’s taking a while to get everything ironed out, but there are way less 9-1-1 “emergencies” that are really not emergencies, but failed-to-plan experiences (such as car repairs). Things are coming together, I am now very particular where I spend my money and it’s easy to line my spending with my values. I am committed to staying the course because I am leaning on God’s truth and he is helping me every step of the way. Charissa, I can’t thank you enough for all you’ve done for me! I pray that the Lord will bless you and your family abundantly!

Thank you so much for your teachings--I can't tell you how grateful I am for all of your help!

Some positive things that are happening--after last week's teaching, it is sinking in that I am valuable and I am capable of making wise money decisions for my family.

Some Ah-ha things the Lord is showing me--He is helping me realize how much of my spending has been rooted in fear--fear of money, but even more, fear of lack. I realize how many money decisions I make that are rooted in fear and fear is not a good foundation in which to base decisions. Heavy, difficult stuff, but I am grateful to see the truth and to now do different because I know different!

Things are becoming clearer and I am learning and understanding the importance of placing my family first.

This was the best way I have ever heard you explain the prioritized budget! I've read it before, maybe it was your freebie? But, it was GOLD to see you explaining it. It made perfect sense.I absolutely loved the master list of expenses. It was incredibly helpful. The booklet on how to set up the budget was great. Very clear, thorough, and sequential and it felt like I got a lot.

I tore apart all of the finances last weekend.
We decided that we spend too much on eating out. So, we are going to be more mindful about that from now on. We no longer charge things except for true emergencies. We’ve pretty much stopped. I truly am working on it and it feels really good. Things are getting better. I’m not as discouraged as when I first joined your group. Obviously it’s the power of prayer. Thank you. You are always so kind! Thank you for your personal interest in me. I’ve always enjoyed our interactions.

I am very thankful for that wake up call that I received in the program! I have not added to it, but I haven't chipped away as quickly as I would like either. I thank you for the care and the investment you make in people! One thing that made the biggest impression on me was when you went over my budget and pointed out just how much debt I have! Talk about an eye-opener. It's so easy to fool yourself into thinking, its not that big of a deal! I love the tips you gave to make it VISUAL!

Just want to celebrate paying off one credit card completely today! Thanks for your guidance to make this possible!!