I was at a church meeting when the conversation turned to the budget. As we reviewed the numbers, two of the group leaders admitted that they didn’t really understand how to read or interpret them.
I was surprised—one worked for a foundation, and the other was a teacher.
I assured them that understanding a budget isn’t as complicated as it seems. “Think of it as an outline for a story,” I said.
“A budget tells the story of an organization—what it hopes to accomplish with the money it receives over the next year.” Just like a book, a budget has chapters—twelve, to be exact, one for each month.
Some chapters are joyful, when income exceeds expenses and the organization thrives. Others are discouraging, when the expected revenue falls short, forcing difficult decisions.
There are moments of excitement, when a special project is completed or an important milestone is reached. And, like any good story, there are lessons to be learned.
A budget reveals areas where an organization is succeeding and where it may need to adjust its course. A well-managed budget doesn’t just track numbers—it shapes the narrative of the year ahead.
It reflects priorities, values, and vision. It tells us whether we’re investing in the right areas, supporting the right initiatives, and being good stewards of our resources. It highlights the risks we take, the opportunities we seize, and the impact we hope to make.
So, do you have questions about how to understand a budget? Remember, it’s simply the story of what you plan to do and the journey ahead. Will it be a tale of success, growth, and responsible leadership?
Or will it be a struggle, full of missed opportunities and financial hardship? The outcome depends on how well we plan, adapt, and manage the resources entrusted to us.
A budget isn’t just numbers on a spreadsheet—it’s the adventure an organization embarks on each year. And whether it’s a tragedy or an inspiring success story is up to us.
If you have struggled with this question and others then go to Patterson2Y2R,com/blog should be a place you should visit to share your stories and challenges.
I have an ear that would love to hear your stories. Let’s taste the real meaning of life. I am still working on my course with the goal of launching a starter course, and I will keep you abreast as to how the process goes.
If you want to participate in this process and join my first class please send me an email to bobchuckpatterson@yahoo.com
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