Caring For You During Budget Season

As many approach compiling their budgets and forecasts for next year, some nuggets of advice might be helpful to manage your stress and maintain your wellbeing during, at times, a very demanding season. 

One task at a time

You can only complete one task at a time. Break down the budget into several stages, such as collecting current stats, data, and reports. Taking the time to do the research will save you loads of time later. Then review the information to gain a broader understanding of the current status as well as the trends over the last year. What do the trends show? Any surprises in the costs or team performance? 

Time to Forecast

A forecast is just that - a forecast, not a prediction. Gather your information, review the data, consult with trusted partners, and talk with colleagues about what they are experiencing. Now is the time make informed decisions based on your knowledge and intuition about the market's future. What will be the supply and demand? What are the trends?  What have you experienced in the past that may occur again? Trust yourself and your experience to set the budget successfully. 

Take Time for Yourself

While you are assessing and reviewing all the data, don’t forget to take care of yourself! Go for a walk. Take a brain break every 90 minutes. Fuel yourself with healthy food. Get good sleep. All of these will help you to bring your best game to number crunching and make the best plan you can for 2026.