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How to Create a Financial Plan That Actually Works

Written by Sasha Watson | Jun 1, 2025 1:49:43 PM

 

By Sasha Watson | SWFS

Creating a financial plan isn’t just about setting goals — it’s about building a foundation that supports your business, life, and long-term security. At Sasha Watson Financial Solutions (SWFS), we help clients create plans that are not only strategic, but sustainable.

Whether you're just starting your entrepreneurial journey or restructuring your finances, here’s how to build a plan that actually works.

1. Start with Your Financial Snapshot

Before you plan forward, assess where you are now:

  • What’s your monthly income (business and personal)?

  • What are your fixed and variable expenses?

  • Are you carrying debt, or managing any tax obligations?

  • What are your current savings, credit score, and available resources?

This baseline helps you build a plan that’s realistic — not idealistic.

2. Identify 2–3 Core Financial Goals

The key is focus. Select the goals that will have the biggest impact, such as:

  • Pay off $10,000 in credit card debt

  • Save $5,000 for taxes or business investment

  • Grow business revenue by 20% in the next quarter

We recommend setting SMART goals (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound).

3. Create a Custom Cash Flow Strategy

Once you’ve identified your goals, organize your income to serve them:

  • Split income into categories: operations, taxes, savings, and reinvestment

  • Set monthly budget targets and automate what you can

  • Use SWFS cash flow trackers or scheduling templates to monitor your money

A cash flow strategy is the bridge between intention and action.

4. Choose a Review Schedule

Your financial plan should be a living document. Review it:

  • Weekly (for task updates and transactions)

  • Monthly (for strategy adjustments)

  • Quarterly (for goal alignment and opportunity assessment)

SWFS clients use our Monthly Review Checklist to stay accountable and agile.

5. Adapt as You Grow

Your plan should flex with your circumstances:

  • Income shifts? Adjust your savings ratios.

  • Unexpected expense? Realign your payment schedule.

  • Business expansion? Reforecast and revisit your targets.

This is why a working plan matters more than a “perfect” one.

✨ Final Thought

A financial plan isn’t just a spreadsheet. It’s your commitment to your future. And when it’s built with intention, reviewed consistently, and adjusted with care — it becomes one of your most powerful tools for growth.

Let SWFS help you create a plan that actually works — and stick to it.

📄 Download our Financial Planning Template
📅 Schedule a Consultation

Sasha Watson
Founder & CEO, SWFS