04/09/2026
If you find yourself in a tight season financially, focus on covering what we call The 4 Walls of your budget first, before paying for anything else.
The 4 Walls are:
1. Food
2. Utilities
3. Shelter
4. Transportation
Keep them in that order too. If you can do nothing else, make sure you and your family are fed. Then move on to utilities. Yes, prioritize those before paying your rent or your mortgage for the month. This is because losing power or water can happen quickly, while eviction and foreclosure usually take longer. That extra time gives you room to make a plan, but if the lights go out, the crisis becomes immediate.
Remember: a tough season is not forever. Slow down. Get clear. Handle the basics first while you make a plan for the rest. You got this!
Dave Ramsey
