How do you manage cash flow when you have irregular income?

[AvaZT]

Cash flow management is challenging enough with a regular paycheck, but with my freelance work, it's a whole different ballgame. Some months are great, others are lean. How do you handle cash flow management when your income isn't predictable? What systems or approaches help you smooth out the ups and downs? I'm looking for practical cash flow management techniques that work for people with variable income streams. How do you budget when you don't know exactly what you'll earn each month?