Forecasting 101

Forecasting is a fancy word for planning ahead. It’s not about having a crystal ball—it’s about getting clear on what’s ahead so you’re not caught off guard. You can’t control a lot but the things you do have control over, like planned vacations, weddings or even car repairs, we plan for. 

Let’s break it down with an example:

It’s January, and you know you’ve got some big events coming up this year—your best friend’s wedding, a summer vacation, and your kid’s soccer season. Forecasting is about writing those things down, estimating how much they’ll cost, and creating a plan to save for them BEFORE they happen. You’re approaching your future in a proactive way instead of a reactive one; that way, when these moments arrive, you’re ready to enjoy them without the stress of scrambling for money.

Here’s a process for forecasting that we love using with our clients:

Step 1: Make a List of What’s Coming Up This Year

Start by writing down everything you know is coming up this year. These could be personal events, family commitments, or even recurring activities that you need to plan for financially. Be as detailed as possible. Here are a few examples:

• Your kid’s dance classes and uniforms
• Summer camp or childcare
• Family vacations or weekend trips
• Weddings, birthdays, or anniversaries
• Home improvements or repairs

Once you’ve made your list, you’ll have a clear view of what’s on the horizon. This step isn’t about stressing over everything at once—it’s about creating awareness so you can plan ahead.

Step 2: Estimate the Costs

Now that you have your list, try to estimate the cost of each item as much as possible. You don’t need exact numbers, but getting a ballpark figure helps you set financial goals for each event.

For example:

• Your kid’s soccer season: Registration fees, equipment, and snacks might cost around $500.
• Summer vacation: Flights, hotels, and food could add up to $3,000.
• Best friend’s wedding: Outfit, travel, and a gift might total $1,200.

Add everything up to get an idea of how much money you’ll need for the year. Don’t panic if the total feels overwhelming—this step is about clarity, not perfection. Knowing the numbers allows you to start working toward them. 

Step 3: Create a Savings Plan

With your total costs in mind, it’s time to create a plan to save. Start by breaking the big number into smaller, manageable chunks.

Here’s how:

1. Set a timeline: Figure out when you need the money. For example, if your vacation is in July, you have six months to save.
2. Divide and conquer: Take the total amount for each event and divide it by the number of months until the event. For a $3,000 vacation in six months, you’ll need to save $500 per month.
3. Automate your savings: Open a separate savings account for each goal and set up automatic transfers. Label the accounts—like “Vacation Fund” or “Wedding Fund”—so you know exactly what the money is for.
4. Realign your current budget with your future goals: Take a closer look at where your money is currently going and make intentional adjustments to ensure your spending aligns with the goals you’ve set. This isn’t about cutting back—it’s about prioritizing what matters most to you.

The key is to make saving feel manageable and purposeful. Even if you can’t hit every number perfectly, having a plan gives you a clear path forward. This process also creates an opportunity to set boundaries and feel confident about what you can say yes to, knowing that every decision supports your bigger picture.

Why Forecasting Makes Life Easier

By taking the time to forecast now, you’re giving yourself the gift of peace of mind. Instead of worrying about how you’ll afford what’s ahead, you’ll have a plan in place to make it happen. Plus, knowing you’ve saved for your goals makes those big moments—like your vacation or your best friend’s wedding—that much sweeter.

Ready to start forecasting? Grab a notebook or open a spreadsheet and list what’s ahead. 

And if you’re looking for more support, let’s do it together. At Beyond the Green Coaching, we’re here to help you create a plan that aligns with your goals, sets clear priorities, and puts you in control of your financial future. Click here to learn more about working with us and start forecasting your brightest year yet.