A Tight Month, A Clear Plan: My June Budget Breakdown

This month, my income totaled $7,408.36, including both my full-time salary and side income from my photobooth business. Sounds like a lot, right? But when you're juggling debt, fixed bills, and the cost of simply existing, things get tight real fast.

Here’s the breakdown:

Income Sources

• My Salary Paychecks: $4,108.36

• Rental Income: $2,800

• Photobooth Booking: $500

Where the Money Went

Fixed Expenses – $4,029.66

Rent, utilities, insurance, therapy, tithes, and household basics. Non-negotiables that keep my life and spirit functioning.

Debt Minimum Payments – $2,471.95

Yep, almost $2,500 just to stay current. This includes credit cards, my personal loan, and business debt. I paid the minimums this month to preserve my cash flow—no extra snowballs, but no late fees either.

Savings Goals:

I didn’t touch my emergency fund this month, which sits at $377.45 across two accounts. It's tempting to throw it at debt, but right now I’m choosing stability. Emergency fund = peace of mind.

So... What’s Left?

I ended the month with $6.75 to spare—not much, but a win in my book.

I did go $116.66 over budget in variable expenses (shoutout to groceries, gas, and a few “just because” wants), but I tracked every dollar.

💭 What I’m Learning

• Budgeting is less about perfection and more about awareness + intention.

• Some months you attack your debt. Other months, you maintain and protect your peace.

• Tracking your spending down to the eyebrow wax and Chipotle run helps you own your choices without shame.

🎯 Goals for July

• Pause unnecessary spending for the first 2 weeks

• Try to earn at least $750 from photobooth bookings

• Consider throwing $100–$200 at my highest-interest card if I stay under budget