How Do I Recover From Holiday Overspending and Start Fresh With My Money in the New Year?

How Do I Recover From Holiday Overspending and Start Fresh With My Money in the New Year?

The holiday lights have dimmed, the decorations are packed away, and the credit card bill has landed in your inbox. January can feel like a financial hangover – but it doesn’t have to stay that way. The new year is the perfect time for a fresh start with your money. Let’s turn those post-holiday regrets into real financial progress.

Step 1: Acknowledge the Overspend – Without Shame

Let’s be real. You probably didn’t mean to go overboard, but the season has a way of loosening our wallets. Flash sales, peer pressure, holiday cheer – it’s a perfect storm of spending. Here’s the deal: You’re not bad with money. You’re human.

The first thing I tell my clients: “You can’t change what you won’t face.” So open those credit card statements, take a breath, and look at the total. It’s just data and now you’re in the driver’s seat.

Step 2: Have a “Money Review Day”

Set aside one focused hour this week for your personal “Money Review Day – grab a coffee, and get into CEO mode:

 ? Print or pull up your December statements
? List your total credit card balances
? Note the interest rates and minimum payments
✂️ Highlight 3 spending categories to cut back this month

This is about clarity, not judgment. Think of it as gathering puzzle pieces before you start putting them together.

 Have a “Money Review Day”

Step 3: Set a Short-Term Payoff Goal

Massive goals feel good in theory, but small wins are what keep you going. Look at your balances and pick ONE target:

  • Your smallest balance to clear quickly (Snowball method)
  • Your highest-interest card to save money (Avalanche method)

Example: If you owe $3,000 across 3 cards, focus on paying off the $500 one first. That win builds confidence and momentum.

Step 4: Build a Realistic January Budget

Post-holiday budgeting is all about breathing room. Not punishment. Build a one-month “recovery budget” that helps you regain control:

✅ Cover essentials first: Rent/mortgage, food, utilities, transport
❌ Cut or pause: Subscriptions, takeout, impulse buys
? Redirect: Any leftover funds go straight to your debt goal

Even an extra $50 a week toward debt adds up. And if money is tight? See if you can generate a little extra (selling unused items, picking up a side hustle, cashback apps, etc.).

Step 5: Create a “Holiday Payback Plan”

If you overspent by $1,200 in December, divide that into 6 monthly chunks: $200/month. Add it to your budget now and automate it.

This isn’t about guilt – it’s about taking control on your terms. When you have a plan, the weight of the debt gets lighter.

Step 6: Replace Shame with Strategy

Negative self-talk like “I’m terrible with money” only reinforces stuck patterns. Flip the script:

❌ “I can’t believe I did this again.”
✅ “I’m learning new habits that support my goals.”

Money is emotional and mindset matters. Be your own biggest ally, not your harshest critic.

Step 7: Future-Proof Next Year with a Holiday Fund

Want to avoid this January stress next time? Start now with a holiday sinking fund:

  • Name it: “Holiday Joy Fund”
  • Set a goal: $1,000 by November
  • Break it down: $42/month or $21/paycheck

Automate it. When next December hits, you’ll be ready, and proud of yourself.

 Future-Proof Next Year with a Holiday Fund

Step 8: Find a Support System

This journey is easier (and more fun) when you don’t do it alone. Whether it’s a money buddy, group, or coach – accountability is the secret sauce. That’s where my “Financial Muscle Coaching Membership” helps keep you accountable and gives you to the tools and knowledge to update your financial future.

Most people don’t need more information. They need support, structure, and a system.

Final Thoughts

You don’t have to fix everything overnight. But you do have to start. And now is the perfect time. Your financial reset starts with one decision, one action, and one new mindset: You’re in control now.

Ready to stop feeling stuck and finally build real financial momentum? Join Financial Muscle Coaching – this is a membership designed to help you rebuild, reset, and grow stronger with your money. It’s time to train your financial muscles and feel powerful about your money choices.

Let’s make this your best money year yet. ??

Join Financial Muscle Coaching Now

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New Year, New Money Energy: How to Kick Off 2026 With Confidence

New Year, New Money Energy: How to Kick Off 2026 With Confidence

There’s something magical about a fresh new year. It feels like a blank notebook just waiting to be filled – new hopes, new habits, and new opportunities. And when it comes to your finances, January is the perfect time to channel that energy into building momentum that lasts all year long.

Forget the overwhelming resolutions list. This year, it’s about starting small, starting strong, and building money confidence that fuels everything else in your life. Ready to step into 2026 with fresh energy? Here’s how.

? Step 1: Choose Your 2026 Money Theme

Instead of setting a dozen resolutions, pick a single theme to guide your financial decisions this year.

Examples:

  • Growth: Focus on building savings or investments
  • Freedom: Prioritise paying off debt
  • Stability: Build your emergency fund
  • Intentionality: Track spending and align with your values

Your theme becomes a compass. Whenever you face a financial choice, you can ask: Does this support my 2026 money theme?

? Step 2: Set One Clear Goal for January

Don’t wait until mid-year to make progress. Start now with one achievable goal this month. Ideas:

  • Save $100 by cutting one expense (like takeaway coffees or subscriptions)
  • Track every expense for 30 days
  • Make an extra payment toward debt
  • Open a new savings account for your emergency fund

When you achieve a quick win in January, you build confidence that sets the tone for the year.

Track every expense for 30 days

? Step 3: Refresh Your Budget for the New Year

Your life has probably shifted since last January, so your budget should too. Take stock of:

  • Your current income
  • Your fixed expenses (rent, utilities, insurance)
  • Your variable expenses (groceries, fun, travel)
  • Your financial goals (savings, debt, investing)

Give every dollar a purpose. Remember, your budget isn’t about restriction – it’s a plan for freedom and choice.

? Step 4: Build Money Habits That Stick

The new year isn’t about overnight change – it’s about consistency. 

Focus on simple, sustainable habits:

  • Weekly money check-ins (15 minutes to review spending and update your budget)
  • Automatic savings transfers on payday
  • Meal planning to cut food waste and overspending
  • Tracking your progress toward one goal each month

Habits create momentum. And momentum creates results.

Meal planning to cut food waste and overspending

✨ Step 5: Infuse Your Money Journey With Joy

Money confidence isn’t just about numbers – it’s about how you feel. This year, commit to making your financial journey something you enjoy.

Ideas:

  • Celebrate small wins with non-spending rewards (like a relaxing night in or a walk in nature)
  • Share your goals with a friend or accountability partner
  • Create a money vision board for 2026
  • Journal about what financial freedom looks and feels like for you

When you connect money with joy, you’ll find it easier to stick with your goals.

? Step 6: Create a Future-You Fund

Want to feel truly confident? Start building a little cushion for the future.

  • Begin or boost your emergency fund
  • Start a sinking fund for Christmas, travel, or birthdays
  • Increase your superannuation contributions, even by 1%

Every dollar you set aside is a gift to your future self. And future-you will thank you for it.

? Final Thoughts: Step Into 2026 With Confidence

This new year isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress. It’s about taking small, intentional steps that align with your goals and values.

So choose your theme, set your January goal, refresh your budget, and commit to simple habits. Celebrate the wins along the way, and don’t forget to enjoy the journey.

Because 2026 is your story to write – and this year, you get to write it with confidence, clarity, and fresh money energy.

The Year-End Money Reset: 5 Steps to Start Fresh in 2026

The Year-End Money Reset: 5 Steps to Start Fresh in 2026

The Christmas decorations are packed away, the calendar is almost at its final page, and 2026 is knocking on the door. Before we rush ahead with resolutions and new goals, this is the perfect moment to pause, reset, and give your finances a fresh start.

Think of it as a deep clean for your money: clearing out the clutter, tying up loose ends, and laying down a solid foundation for the year ahead. You don’t need a complete financial overhaul – just a few intentional steps to get organised, centred, and ready for what’s next.

Here’s your Year-End Money Reset in 5 simple steps.

Step 1: Review the Year That Was

Start by taking an honest look at your 2025 money story:

  • How much did you save?
  • What debts did you pay down?
  • Where did most of your money go?
  • What financial habits worked well, and which ones didn’t?

Pull up your bank statements, budgeting app, or a notebook and jot down your reflections. This isn’t about judgement – it’s about awareness. You can’t reset what you don’t measure.

Step 2: Tidy Up Loose Ends

Before the year ends, clear out the financial “clutter” that weighs you down:

  • Pay off small lingering balances if you can
  • Cancel unused subscriptions or memberships
  • Return any holiday items you overspent on and don’t really need
  • Check expiry dates on gift cards (and use them!)

These little steps free up money and mental space, setting you up for a cleaner slate in 2026.

Step 3: Check Your Financial Health

Now’s the time to give yourself a quick financial check-up:

  • Emergency fund: Do you have at least $500 – $1,000 set aside for surprises?

     

  • Debt: What balances remain, and what’s your repayment plan?

     

  • Credit score: Check it – it’s easier (and cheaper) to fix issues early

     

  • Savings and investments: Review your pension contributions, ISAs, or other savings accounts

     

Think of this as your “financial MOT.” A little check-up now prevents breakdowns later.

Now’s the time to give yourself a quick financial check-up and save what you can!

Step 4: Set a Fresh Budget Blueprint

Don’t wait for January 1st – start shaping your new budget now.

Your 2026 budget should reflect:

  • Your income (any changes for the new year?)
  • Your fixed expenses (rent, mortgage, bills)
  • Your goals (savings, debt repayment, travel plans)
  • Your lifestyle values (fun, hobbies, giving)

Keep it simple: Give every dollar a job. Whether it’s for bills, savings, or fun, assign it with intention. Use a budgeting app, a spreadsheet, or even pen and paper – whatever works for you.

Step 5: Choose One Money Focus for 2026

Instead of overwhelming yourself with a list of 10 resolutions, choose one core financial focus for the new year. This helps you stay clear, consistent, and motivated.

Examples:

  • Build a $1,000 emergency fund
  • Pay off one credit card completely
  • Increase monthly savings by $100
  • Track every expense for 90 days

Your focus becomes your compass, guiding your decisions and reminding you why you’re saying yes – or no – in the moment.

✨ Final Thoughts: Reset, Refresh, and Move Forward

A year-end reset doesn’t have to be complicated. By reviewing your year, clearing financial clutter, checking your money health, setting a new budget, and choosing one core focus, you’ll walk into 2026 lighter, clearer, and ready to thrive.

This isn’t about being perfect. It’s about progress. And every small step you take now builds momentum for a stronger financial future.

So, give yourself the gift of a money reset. 2026 is your blank page – make it a story you’re proud to write.

Give yourself the gift of a money reset. 2026 is your blank page - make it a story you’re proud to write.

Avoiding the Post-Christmas Credit Card Hangover

Avoiding the Post-Christmas Credit Card Hangover

The tree has come down, the last slice of Christmas pudding is gone, and you’re finally catching your breath after the festive whirlwind. But then it happens – you open your credit card statement, and suddenly that Christmas cheer feels like a distant memory. The dreaded post-Christmas credit card hangover has arrived.

The good news? You can absolutely enjoy Christmas without carrying financial regret into the new year. With a few mindful strategies, you can celebrate fully and start January feeling confident, not crushed by debt. Here’s how to make it happen.

Step 1: Set a Christmas Spending Limit (Before You Shop)

Your credit card limit is not your Christmas budget. Decide what you can comfortably spend this festive season without borrowing from your future self.

Ask yourself:

  • How much cash do I realistically have available for Christmas?
  • What regular bills and obligations still need to be covered?
  • Can I set aside money weekly in December to spread out costs?

     

Write down a total number – this is your Christmas spending cap. Stick to it, even when those festive sales scream your name.

Step 2: Create a Cash-First Plan

One of the easiest ways to avoid a credit card hangover is to use as little credit as possible during Christmas.

  • Pay with debit or cash where possible
  • Set aside weekly envelopes for gifts, food, and fun
  • Use prepaid cards to cap your spending
  • If using credit online, track it immediately and set a repayment date

Pro tip: Leave your credit card at home when shopping in person. It’s much harder to overspend when you don’t have the option. Try using a visa debit card, which is actually your money and when you run out that’s it!

Step 3: Track Every Dollar (Yes, Every Single One)

In the Christmas chaos, it’s easy to lose track of spending – but that’s how the January shock sets in. Ways to stay on top:

  • Use budgeting apps like YNAB, EveryDollar, or Mint
  • Keep a festive spending log in a notebook or phone note
  •  
  • Do weekly money check-ins throughout December

Think of it as financial self-care. Awareness is your secret weapon.

Track Every Dollar. Think of it as financial self-care.

Step 4: Be Strategic With Gifts

Gifts are often the biggest Christmas expense, but they don’t have to wreck your budget.

Tips for staying intentional:

  • Make a list of who you’re buying for before you shop
  • Set a per-person limit and stick to it
  • Consider Secret Santa to cut the number of gifts
  • Swap expensive items for homemade or experience-based gifts
  • Remember: thoughtful beats flashy every time

No one worth celebrating wants you to go into debt for their gift.

Step 5: Plan for Food and Festivities

Christmas isn’t just about presents – the meals, parties, and little extras add up quickly. Save money by:

  • Planning meals in advance
  • Shopping early for non-perishables
  • Hosting potluck-style dinners
  • Saying no to extras that don’t truly add joy

     

When you prepare in advance, you avoid last-minute dashes (and expensive impulse buys).

Host potluck-style dinners

Step 6: Watch Out for Emotional Spending Triggers

Christmas marketing is designed to play on your heartstrings. Nostalgia, urgency, and guilt can all push you to overspend. Ask yourself:

  • Am I buying this because I want to – or because I feel pressured?
  • Will this bring lasting joy, or just temporary excitement?
  • Does this purchase align with my budget and values?

Your wallet deserves as much protection as your peace of mind.

Step 7: Practice Festive Financial Self-Care

Money stress can quickly steal your Christmas spirit. Make self-care part of your financial strategy:

  • Take breaks from social media (comparison is a sneaky trigger)
  • Remind yourself that Christmas isn’t a competition
  • Journal your money intentions for the season
  • Share your budget boundaries with loved ones

The more grounded you feel, the easier it is to resist overspending.

? Step 8: Create a January Recovery Plan

If you do use your credit card this Christmas, set a plan for repayment:

  • Tally up what you’ve spent
  • Divide it into weekly or monthly repayment goals
  • Automate payments so you stay on track

Even better? Plan a “No-Spend January.” Cutting back in the new year can help you reset your budget and clear any lingering balances faster.

Bonus: Start a Christmas Sinking Fund for Next Year

Want to avoid the stress altogether next time? Build a sinking fund.

Example:

  • Decide on for example a $3000 Christmas budget for 2025
  • Divide by 12 months = $250/month
  • Set up an automatic transfer to a separate savings account

Come December, you’ll be ready – no credit cards needed.

Final Thoughts: A Debt-Free Christmas Is the Best Gift

The magic of Christmas isn’t in the size of the presents or the amount spent – it’s in the moments, the laughter, and the love. Avoiding the post-Christmas credit card hangover means entering the new year lighter, freer, and more empowered.

So give yourself the gift of financial peace. Spend with intention, set boundaries, and remember: your presence is always more valuable than the presents under the tree.

The Holiday Season Budget Blueprint: Save Big Without Sacrificing Joy

The Holiday Season Budget Blueprint: Save Big Without Sacrificing Joy

The holiday season is often painted with glitter and gold – literally and financially. Between decorations, gifts, food, travel, and events, it can feel like every December demands a sky-high budget. But here’s the truth: you can absolutely have a joyful, memorable holiday without draining your bank account or maxing out your credit cards.

Enter the Holiday Season Budget Blueprint: a practical, five-step guide to help you spend wisely, celebrate fully, and start the new year without a financial hangover. It’s not about saying “no” to the fun stuff – it’s about saying “yes” to the things that truly matter.

Let’s break it down.

Step 1: Define What Matters Most

Before you open your wallet, take a step back and ask: What do I want this holiday season to feel like?

Is it about quality time, rest, giving back, tradition, creativity, or connection? When you define your values first, it becomes easier to:

  • Cut unnecessary spending
  • Set clear priorities
  • Say no to what doesn’t align with your goals 

Remember: Your budget isn’t just a money tool – it’s a reflection of your values.

Step 2: Set a Realistic, All-Inclusive Budget

Next, figure out your total holiday spending limit. This number should come from your current financial reality, not wishful thinking or social pressure. Include:

  • Gifts
  • Food and drinks
  • Travel and accommodations
  • Decorations
  • Wrapping supplies and cards
  • Event tickets or outings
  • Donations and giving
  • Festive extras (e.g., matching pajamas, holiday movies, etc.)

Set a Realistic, All-Inclusive Budget<br />

Bonus: Build in a “buffer” of 10% for those inevitable last-minute expenses.

Pro tip: If you haven’t started a holiday sinking fund yet, this is your sign to plan one for next year. Even $20/month makes a big difference by December.

Step 3: Create a Budget Blueprint That Works for You

Once you have your total holiday budget, break it into categories that fit your life.

Example Blueprint (for a $600 budget):

  • Gifts: $300
  • Food/Entertainment: $100
  • Travel: $75
  • Decorations: $50
  • Charitable Giving: $25
  • Misc/Fun: $50

Now, get specific:

  • List who you’re buying gifts for and set a per-person amount
  • Plan your meals or parties and estimate costs
  • Look up travel prices now to avoid inflated last-minute bookings 

Don’t forget digital tools:

  • Budgeting apps (EveryDollar, YNAB, Mint)
  • Spreadsheets – my budget/spending plan
  • Cash envelope system

The key is to track as you go. Awareness prevents overspending.

Step 4: Use Smart Saving and Spending Strategies

Now for the fun part: making your budget go further without cutting the joy.

Holiday Saving Hacks:

  • Use cashback apps (Rakuten, Honey, Fetch)

     

  • Stack coupons and loyalty points

     

  • Shop early to spread out costs

     

  • Buy in bulk or split bundles with others

     

  • Thrift or upcycle decor and outfits

Joyful (But Budget-Friendly) Alternatives:

  • Experiences over things: movie nights, game nights, or DIY spa days
  • DIY gifts: baked goods, photo albums, handmade crafts
  • Shared hosting: make events potluck-style to share food and fun
  • Decor on a dime: nature-inspired decor, secondhand finds, or family DIY sessions

With a little creativity, you can keep the festive spirit alive and keep your spending aligned with your values.

make events potluck-style to share food and fun</p>
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Step 5: Celebrate With Intention, Not Obligation

This one’s big: don’t let expectations drive your spending. Just because “you always do it this way” doesn’t mean you have to this year.

Say no to:

  • Oversized gift exchanges that cause stress
  • Events that don’t bring joy or fit your budget
  • Trying to match what others are doing on social media

Say yes to:

  • Meaningful moments over material things
  • New traditions that reflect your current season of life
  • Giving from the heart, not the wallet

When you let go of obligation, you make space for a holiday that’s truly aligned with your values and your finances.

Final Thoughts: Make Your Holiday Budget Work For You

The best holiday memories often come from the simple things: laughter, traditions, and time spent with the people who matter most. When you take control of your money with a clear budget, you remove stress and open up space for genuine joy. Remember, the holidays aren’t about how much you spend, they’re about how fully you show up. With a blueprint in place, you can step into the season with confidence, celebrate with intention, and start the new year feeling empowered instead of overwhelmed.

Want more support in building healthy money habits all year round? Join my Monthly Coaching Program and let’s strengthen your financial muscle together!

Black Friday & Cyber Monday: How to Shop Smart Without the Guilt

Black Friday & Cyber Monday: How to Shop Smart Without the Guilt

It’s that time of year again – Black Friday and Cyber Monday are just around the corner, and the pressure to snag a deal (or ten) is real. From midnight doorbusters to “limited-time-only” online sales, it can feel like you’re missing out if you’re not buying something. But here’s the thing: just because it’s on sale, doesn’t mean it belongs in your cart, or your budget.

This year, let’s flip the script. Instead of impulse-buying things you don’t need, let’s shop with clarity, purpose, and zero guilt. Here’s your step-by-step guide to mastering mindful spending during the biggest shopping weekend of the year.

Step 1: Start With a Plan (and a Budget/Spending Plan)

Before the sales start flying, get crystal clear on two things:

  1. What you actually need or plan to buy

  2. How much you can realistically spend

Make a list of:

  • People you’re buying gifts for

     

  • Items you need for your home or business

     

  • Specific products you’ve been saving up for

     

Next, assign a dollar amount to each item and stick to it. Black Friday and Cyber Monday should be about strategic savings, not spontaneous splurges.

Step 2: Use the 24-Hour Rule (Yes, Even on Black Friday)

Impulse buying is a budget’s (spending plan’s) worst enemy, especially when a timer is counting down next to that tempting “Buy Now” button. The antidote? The 24-hour rule:

If you didn’t plan to buy it ahead of time, give yourself 24 hours to think it over. If it’s still a “heck yes” tomorrow and it fits your budget, go for it. If not, skip it and keep your money for something that matters more.

Not practical for flash sales? Use a mini-version: step away for 15 minutes, do something non-shopping related, and check in with yourself.

Use the 24-Hour Rule (Yes, Even on Black Friday)<br />

Step 3: Price Check Like a Pro

Don’t assume that every Black Friday or Cyber Monday deal is a real bargain. Use tools like:

  • CamelCamelCamel: Tracks Amazon price history
  • Honey or Rakuten: Automatically finds coupon codes and cashback options
  • Google Shopping: Compare prices across multiple retailers

Also, check the item’s price history. Some retailers inflate “regular” prices to make the discount look more impressive. Knowledge is power, and a little research can save you from fake savings.

Step 4: Shop With Purpose, Not Pressure

Retailers use urgency and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) to trigger impulse buys:

  • “Only 3 left!”
  • “Ends in 1 hour!”
  • “Everyone is buying this right now!”

Instead of reacting to these triggers, pause and ask:

  • Did I plan for this?
  • Does this align with my values and budget?
  • Will this purchase add real value to my life or someone else’s?

Remind yourself that sales come around again. Missing one deal isn’t the end of the world.

Step 5: Set Digital Boundaries

Let’s be real: your inbox and social feeds are about to explode with ads.

Stay in control by:

  • Unsubscribing from marketing emails you don’t need
  • Turning off notifications for shopping apps
  • Blocking distracting websites during peak sale hours
  • Using a shopping-specific email address to keep sales away from your daily inbox

You don’t need to know about every sale. You just need to know the ones that matter to you.

Step 6: Pay With Intention

How you pay matters. Choose methods that keep you accountable:

  • Cash or prepaid debit cards: When the money’s gone, it’s gone.
  • Credit cards: Use only if you have the cash to pay it off right away
  • Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL): Only use if it’s part of your budget plan, don’t let it stretch your spending

Every purchase should fit into your overall holiday budget. If it doesn’t, it’s not worth the stress.

Step 7: Focus on Quality Over Quantity

A good deal isn’t good if the item is poor quality, breaks quickly, or doesn’t get used. Instead of buying 10 mediocre things because they’re cheap, invest in one or two high-quality items that will last. You’ll spend less over time, and you’ll avoid cluttering your home with stuff you don’t love.

Ask yourself:

  • Will I (or the recipient) still want this next year?
  • Does this replace something that no longer works or is needed?

Step 8: Support Local and Ethical Brands

Black Friday doesn’t have to be about mega-retailers. Consider using the weekend to:

  • Shop small businesses in your area or online
  • Support ethical and sustainable brands that align with your values
  • Buy from makers and creators on platforms like Etsy or local markets

You’ll still find deals, but your dollars will go further by supporting real people and communities.

Use the 24-Hour Rule (Yes, Even on Black Friday)<br />

Step 9: Reflect Before You Checkout

Before hitting the final “Buy Now” button, do a quick internal check-in:

  • Is this in my budget?
  • Did I plan to buy this?
  • Am I buying this for the right reason?
  • Is this adding value to my life?

Taking just 30 seconds to pause can prevent buyer’s remorse and protect your financial peace.

Step 10: Celebrate Your Wins (Not Just Your Hauls)

It’s easy to brag about how much you saved on a big-ticket item. But you know what’s even better? Celebrating that you:

  • Stuck to your budget
  • Avoided impulse purchases
  • Focused on meaningful gifts
  • Supported businesses you believe in

This is what financial empowerment looks like. It’s not about deprivation – it’s about making choices that feel good now and later.

Final Thoughts: Guilt-Free Shopping Starts With You

Black Friday and Cyber Monday are opportunities, not obligations. You get to decide what matters, how much to spend, and when to say no. Shopping smart isn’t about missing out; it’s about tuning in to your values, your goals, and your peace of mind.

So this year, skip the guilt and shop with confidence. Your wallet – and your future self – will thank you.