Know your real income and spending

Start with facts, not guesses.

• Income: what actually lands in your account or M-Pesa each month, after tax and deductions. If it changes, use your lowest normal month.
• Spending: download your M-Pesa and bank statements for the last month and add up the big groups: rent, food, transport, airtime and data, family support, loans, eating out, and everything else.

Most people are surprised by at least one number. Small daily spends like snacks, bundles and taxis often add up to more than a big bill. Don't judge it yet. Just write it down.