I’ll never forget the moment I sat on the couch, watching my kids tear into their gifts with squeals of excitement and pure joy. I wasn’t distracted by thoughts of credit card bills or the sinking feeling of overspending. For the first time, I felt peace—real, deep peace. I had created and followed a budget that gave me permission to spend with confidence, knowing every dollar was intentional and aligned with my values. I could simply enjoy the magic of the moment without guilt or second-guessing.