When it comes to running a business, sticking to a budget can be the difference between growth and chaos. Whether you're covering operating expenses, paying yourself, marketing, or scaling, a solid budget keeps you on track.

I launched my business using the bootstrap method, which meant I had to be smart about every dollar. The first step to scaling was to create a business model that guaranteed a minimum level of revenue. This allowed me to build and maintain a budget that worked for my business—not just to survive, but to grow!

Why I’m Big on Retainers
I’m a huge advocate for retainers because they provide guaranteed income—as long as you’re delivering quality service or products. This steady cash flow gives you peace of mind and room to breathe. Plus, it makes budgeting a lot easier. If you’re curious about implementing this model for your TC (transaction coordinator) business, I’m happy to help—schedule a consultation with me!

Flexibility is Key
Your budget shouldn’t be a rigid thing. I recommend reviewing it regularly—whether that’s daily, weekly, or monthly. Personally, I like to monitor mine on a weekly basis. I find it easier to catch small issues before they become big problems.

Diversify Your Income Streams
Don’t just stop at retainers. Al a carte services, per-contract agreements, merchandise, or digital products can all be great additional sources of income. The more diverse your revenue streams, the more flexibility you’ll have when scaling.

Bottom line: Once you’ve nailed your numbers, you can do anything!