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Its that time of year, when the holidays come around and everyone starts trying to squeeze each penny for all its worth. It makes you wonder where all that money from the summer time went. You had it and now you're wondering how you'll make it to tax season.

There is a subtle art to balancing your small business budget. Its not an easy task, it takes discipline. But if you're ready to get serious about taking your finances into your own hands, then sit down with a budget sheet and read through some of these tips:

1. Set Some Goals: Really plan out what you want to achieve. A better Net income? Getting out of the Red? Having bonus money left each month to reward your employees? Write down some achievable goals.

2. Make it a Habit: Once you've got some goals in mind, make sure to check up on yourself regularly. Monthly reviews can keep you on track to achieving what you set out to do.

3. Over-budget: Got a few areas you aren't sure how to put aside money for? Give yourself some padding. Better to overestimate how much you're spending than end up with nothing in the bank at the end of the year.

4. Separate Your Needs/Wants: If you need to cut some corners, make sure to categorize what you need and what you want. If things are tough, cut some of those wants. Supplying coffee in the morning? Maybe ask people to bring their own for a few months. Printing all your goals? Why not get a dry erase board instead.

5. Mad Money: When I was growing up my mom kept a little stash of cash she called her "mad money". I thought it was for when she was angry until she explained it was for a days when she needed to let off steam and buy something nice for herself. Budget some mad money when things are rough and you need a little office reward (new copier, anyone? Pizza party for the team?)

Do you use software to help with your budget? If so, which ones?