Budget Like a Boss: Simple Money Moves for Dads Who Hate Spreadsheets
Let’s be real — most dads aren’t sitting around with colour-coded spreadsheets.
We’ve got jobs, partners, kids, chaos... and somewhere in the middle of that, we're supposed to “budget.”
If you're providing for your family but still wondering, “Where the hell did my money go?” — you're not alone.
I used to avoid budgeting like it was a root canal. But then I realized something: Budgeting isn't about maths — it's about mindset. It's about knowing what’s coming in, what’s going out, and making sure your money is working as hard as you are.
So if you're ready to feel in control without turning into an accountant — here’s how I did it.
🧠 The Rule of 3: Bills, Goals, Daily Life
Forget complicated categories. Most of your spending falls into three buckets:
BILLS – Rent/mortgage, utilities, subscriptions, insurance
GOALS – Savings, debt repayments, investments
DAILY LIFE – Groceries, fuel, kids’ clubs, spontaneous Nando’s
I call this the “Dad Budget Rule of 3” — it’s simple, flexible, and doesn’t require hours of tracking. Just know what you're spending on each, and aim to give each a fixed % of your income.
🧮 Example Split:
50% Bills
20% Goals
30% Daily Life
You can adjust this based on your situation — just stay aware.
The 5-Minute Friday Finance Check-In
Every Friday, after the kids go to bed, I grab a beer or coffee and do this mini ritual:
Open your banking app
Look at the last 7 days of spending
Ask: Did anything surprise me? Was that aligned with my goals?
Adjust your next week’s plan if needed
It’s not about guilt — it’s about awareness.
This habit helped me stop “accidental spending” and start feeling confident about my money.
🧠 Bonus Tip: Make this a habit with your partner. Money talk gets easier when it’s regular and relaxed.
Teaching Your Kids by Example
Want your kids to grow up financially literate? Then show them.
Let them see you save for something.
Talk about what things cost and how you decide to spend.
Involve them in simple choices: “Should we do pizza night or save for the holiday?”
You don’t need to lecture. Just lead by example.
When they see Dad handling money with calm, clarity, and confidence — that’s a lesson that sticks for life.
👋 Final Thoughts
You don’t have to be a spreadsheet nerd to be good with money.
You just need a simple system, the right tools, and 5 minutes a week.
Budgeting is freedom — not restriction.
It’s what lets you say yes to what matters, and no to what doesn’t.
You’ve got this.
Stay smart. Lead well.
Until next time,
Jonathan
