This Is How You Save

I run surveys here (see very bottom for one that’s always in these weekly drops) and want to know how I can better assist you with your business or personal finances. So, today we’re going to cover some personal finance tips to help you out at the house!

Here are 10 practical tips to help you feel more confident with your finances—no spreadsheets required for the most part. 😃 Some of these are going to seem super simple and easy….but it’s many of these that people ignore and then wonder how they are deep into a downward spiral of debt.

1. Know Where Your Money Goes
Start by tracking your spending for one full month on a whiteboard, your wall calendar, simple Excel/Google Sheet, etc. You can’t improve what you don’t understand or know. Writing it all down puts it out there for you to see.

2. Create a Simple Budget
A budget doesn’t have to be restrictive—it’s just a plan for your money. Allocate your income into categories like rent, food, transportation, savings, and fun. Stick with something realistic. I have a template I’ve used for a long time if you want it. Just ask. Seriously.

3. Build an Emergency Fund
Aim for something like $500 to start or $100, then build up to 3–6 months of expenses. This gives you a safety net for unexpected events like car repairs or medical bills without turning to credit.

4. Pay Off High-Interest Debt First
Focus on credit cards or loans with the highest interest rates. Use the avalanche method (highest rate first) or the snowball method (smallest balance first) whichever keeps you motivated. There’s options out there for 0% interest too…search around if you need to.

5. Don’t Ignore Your Credit Score
Your credit score affects loans, insurance, even job offers. Check it regularly, keep credit usage under 30%, and always pay bills on time. I like seeing my Credit Karma dashboard each week for options, changes, etc. Check them out if you aren’t using something now.

6. Automate Savings
Set up automatic transfers to savings, even if it’s just $25 a week. When you automate it, you won’t forget it and you’ll build savings without thinking about it. It really does add up over time if you are consistent.

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7. Live Below Your Means
Just because you can afford something doesn’t mean you should. Prioritize needs over wants and avoid lifestyle creep when your income grows. This is tough for many and you always want to keep up with others right? At the end of the day, that can cause major issues vs being the cool thing to do.

8. Meal Plan and Grocery Smart
Food is a huge budget leak. Planning meals, cooking at home, and shopping with a list can save hundreds each month. I’ll be honest that we are always so guilty of just grabbing something after ball games or events as that’s the easy way out….let’s all get better here.

9. Limit Impulse Purchases
If something catches your eye, wait 24 hours before buying. Often, the impulse passes and you save money for what actually matters. Again….hi it’s me all the time with random purchases, but working on this with your family can be a game changer.

10. Set One Financial Goal at a Time
Whether it’s saving for a vacation, paying off a credit card, or building your emergency fund, one clear goal keeps you focused and motivated. Add a tab to your budget file if you like that kind of stuff and watch yourself start crushing these personal finance goals!

Ok, that’s all I have for today. As I re-read through things here it reminds me that no one is perfect and I’m guilty of so much of the above. Live and learn, and grow from these details above and I am confident things will begin trending up for you.

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