10 Small Changes That Can Lead to Big Wins for Your Wallet

10 Small Changes That Can Lead to Big Wins for Your Wallet

Jan 29, 2025 | Book of the Week, Building Emotional Muscle, Building Financial Muscle, Credit Score, Debt, Debt Payment, Debt Repayment, Educational Series, Financial Education, Financial Freedom, Financial Health, Financial Management 101, Home Loan, Mindset, Mortgage, Net Worth, Relationships, Retirement, Saving Money, Side Hustle | 0 comments

When it comes to improving your finances, it’s easy to feel like you need a big windfall or drastic lifestyle changes to make progress. But here’s the truth: small, consistent changes often lead to the biggest wins. Whether it’s trimming everyday expenses, tweaking your habits, or making smarter financial decisions, these small steps can create a ripple effect that transforms your wallet—and your life.

In this blog, we’ll explore 10 simple yet impactful changes you can make today to start seeing big financial results.

1 – Automate Your Savings

One of the easiest ways to build your savings without even thinking about it is to automate the process.

How It Helps:

      • You prioritise savings before spending.
      • It removes the temptation to skip saving.

How To Do It:
Set up a recurring transfer from your checking account to a savings account on payday. Even $10 or $20 a week adds up over time.

Write down every debt you owe, including balances, interest rates, and minimum payments.

2 – Cancel Subscriptions You Don’t Use

Streaming services, gym memberships, and subscription boxes can quietly drain your wallet if you’re not careful.

How It Helps:

      • Frees up money for other priorities.
      • Eliminates guilt over unused services.

How To Do It:
Review your bank statements for recurring charges. Cancel any subscription you haven’t used in the past month.

3 – Switch to Cash for Discretionary Spending

Using cash or visa debit card instead of credit cards for things like dining out, entertainment, or shopping helps you stay within budget.

How It Helps:

      • Makes spending feel more tangible.
      • Helps you avoid overspending.

How To Do It:
As cash is getting hard these days to use and get out, you can either – withdraw a set amount each week for discretionary spending or open a visa debit card where it’s your cash and you can see what you spend and what you have left over. When the cash or money in your visa debit card is gone, you’re done for the week.

Switch to Cash for Discretionary Spending

4 – Meal Prep to Avoid Eating Out

Eating out frequently is one of the biggest budget busters. Preparing meals at home is not only healthier but also significantly cheaper.

How It Helps:

      • Reduces dining-out expenses.
      • Saves time and stress during busy weeks.

How To Do It:
Plan and prepare your meals for the week on Sunday. Cook in batches and store portions in the fridge or freezer.

5 – Negotiate Your Bills

You’d be surprised how many service providers are willing to offer discounts or promotions if you simply ask.

How It Helps:

      • Lowers your monthly expenses.
      • Gives you more breathing room in your budget.

How To Do It:
Call your internet, phone, or insurance provider and ask if they can lower your rate. Mention competitor pricing to strengthen your case.

6 – Unsubscribe from Retail Emails

Retailers are experts at tempting you with “limited-time offers” and discounts. Avoid unnecessary spending by unsubscribing.

How It Helps:

      • Reduces impulse purchases.
      • Keeps your inbox less cluttered.

How To Do It:
Take five minutes to unsubscribe from any email lists that promote shopping. Out of sight, out of mind.

Break Goals into Bite-Sized Steps

7 – Set Mini Financial Goals

Big goals like paying off debt or saving for a house can feel overwhelming. Breaking them into smaller milestones makes them more achievable

How It Helps:

      • Keeps you motivated.
      • Allows you to celebrate small wins.

How To Do It:
If your goal is to save $5,000, start with a mini goal of $500. Reward yourself (in a budget-friendly way) when you hit each milestone.

8 – Sell Items You No Longer Need

Decluttering your home can also give your wallet a boost. From clothes to gadgets, many unused items could be turned into cash.

How It Helps:

      • Provides extra money for savings or debt repayment.
      • Clears up space in your home.

How To Do It:
List items on platforms like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Gumtree. Focus on selling things you haven’t used in the past year.

9 – Use Cashback and Rewards Programs

If you’re already spending money, you might as well earn something back. Cashback and rewards programs offer a way to save while you spend.

How It Helps:

      • Reduces the cost of everyday purchases.
      • Can provide free perks like gift cards or travel rewards.

How To Do It:
Take five minutes to unsubscribe from any email lists that promote shopping. Out of sight, out of mind.

    Use Cashback and Rewards Programs

    10 – Track Your Progress

    Financial wins can feel invisible if you’re not paying attention. Regularly tracking your progress helps you stay motivated and see how far you’ve come.

    How It Helps:

        • Keeps you accountable.
        • Provides encouragement to stick with your plan.

    How To Do It:
    Set aside 15 minutes each week to review your budget, check your savings, and reflect on your financial goals.

    How Small Changes Add Up To Big Wins

    Each of these changes might seem minor on its own, but together, they can create a powerful impact. For example:

      • Automating savings builds a habit that grows over time.
      • Canceling unused subscriptions frees up money to pay down debt.
      • Tracking progress keeps you on track toward your larger financial goals.

    When combined, these small actions help you feel more in control of your money and reduce financial stress.

    Why Programs Like Master Your Money Make a Difference

    If you’re looking for a structured way to implement these changes, programs like Master Your Money can guide you. By combining practical tips with personalised coaching, you’ll learn how to make sustainable financial progress and achieve your goals faster.

    Conclusion

    Improving your finances doesn’t have to involve drastic changes or sacrifices. By focusing on small, consistent actions, you can make big strides toward financial stability and freedom. Start with just one or two changes from this list and build from there.

    Remember, every step you take brings you closer to a brighter financial future. So, what small change will you make today?

    The Master Your Money Program is FOR YOU if:

    👉🏼 You’re earning good income but still feel stuck in a cycle of stress or overspending.
    👉🏼 You want to break free from limiting beliefs like “I’m bad with money” or “There’s never enough.”
    👉🏼 You’re ready to build wealth without sacrificing the things you love.
    👉🏼 You dream of financial freedom and need the tools and mindset to make it happen.

    This is more than a mindset shift—it’s a transformation that puts you on the path to lasting financial success! 🚀

    The 90 Day Money Makeover
    SCHEDULE A CALL WITH KAREN
    Money Myths That Are Keeping You Broke & How to Break Free

    Money Myths That Are Keeping You Broke & How to Break Free

    Jan 8, 2025 | Building Emotional Muscle, Building Financial Muscle, Credit Score, Debt, Debt Payment, Debt Repayment, Financial Education, Financial Freedom, Financial Health, Financial Management 101, Holiday Season, Holiday Spending, Home Loan, Mindset, Mortgage, Relationships, Retirement, Saving Money, Self Development | 0 comments

    Money is a topic surrounded by myths, misconceptions, and downright bad advice. These myths often creep into our minds, influencing our financial decisions and keeping us stuck in unhealthy patterns. Breaking free from these false beliefs is essential if you want to achieve financial success and peace of mind.

    In this blog, we’ll bust some of the most common money myths that may be holding you back and provide practical steps to rewrite your money story for a brighter financial future.

    How to Break Free From Money Myths - Piggy Bank

    Myth #1: “I’m Just Bad With Money”

    This myth is one of the most damaging because it creates a sense of helplessness. Believing you’re inherently bad with money can stop you from even trying to improve your financial situation.

    The Truth:

    Nobody is born knowing how to manage money. Financial literacy is a skill that can be learned and improved over time. Even if you’ve made mistakes in the past, you can turn things around with education and practice.

    How to Break Free:

    • Start small: Begin by learning basic budgeting techniques like the 50/30/20 rule.
    • Track your spending for 30 days to understand where your money is going.
    • Celebrate small wins, like paying off a bill or sticking to a budget for a month.

    Myth #2: “Budgeting is Restrictive”

    Many people think of budgets as joy-killers, imagining a spreadsheet that forces them to cut out everything fun. This misconception often leads to avoiding budgeting altogether.

    The Truth:

    A budget is a tool for freedom, not restriction. It helps you take control of your money and ensures you’re spending on what truly matters to you.

    How to Break Free:

    • Use a spending plan instead of calling it a “budget.” It feels less restrictive.
    • Include fun money in your plan so you don’t feel deprived.
    • Remember, budgeting is about prioritising, not punishing.

    Free Download - Budgeting Spreadsheet

    Myth #3: “Debt is Just a Part of Life”

    Society normalises debt, from student loans to credit cards, convincing us that it’s an inevitable part of adulthood. While some debts, like a mortgage, can be strategic, many others can be avoided.

    The Truth:

    Not all debt is created equal. High-interest debt, like credit cards, can trap you in a cycle of repayments that feels endless. Living debt-free is achievable with the right approach.

    How to Break Free:

    • Focus on paying off high-interest debt first using the avalanche method (paying off debts with the highest interest rates first).
    • Avoid taking on new debt unless absolutely necessary.
    • Build an emergency fund to prevent relying on credit cards for unexpected expenses.

    Myth #4: “I’ll Start Saving When I Make More Money”

    This myth assumes that saving is only possible if you earn a certain amount. The reality is, most people increase their spending as their income rises, a phenomenon known as lifestyle inflation.

    The Truth:

    Saving is a habit, not a number. Even small amounts saved regularly can grow significantly over time, thanks to compound interest.

    How to Break Free:

    • Automate your savings so a portion of your income is transferred to a savings account before you even see it.
    • Start with as little as $10 a week if that’s all you can manage, it’s the habit that counts.
    • Set specific savings goals to stay motivated, like a holiday fund or emergency savings.

    Myth #5: “Investing is Only For The Rich”

    Investing can seem intimidating, with jargon and misconceptions making it feel like an exclusive club for the wealthy.

    The Truth:

    Anyone can start investing, even with small amounts of money. Platforms and tools now make it accessible for everyone, and starting early gives you a significant advantage.

    How to Break Free:

    • Begin with low-risk investments, like index funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs).
    • Educate yourself on the basics of investing, start with resources aimed at beginners.
    • Focus on long-term growth rather than short-term gains.
    Begin with low-risk investments

    Myth #6: “I Don’t Make Enough Money to Worry About Finances”

    This myth suggests that financial planning is only necessary for people with substantial incomes, leaving those with modest earnings feeling excluded.

    The Truth:

    Regardless of your income, managing your finances is crucial. In fact, good financial habits are often more impactful for those with limited resources.

    How to Break Free:

    • Create a simple budget to ensure you’re living within your means.
    • Look for ways to boost your income, like freelancing or selling unused items.
    • Prioritise needs over wants and build a small savings cushion.

    Myth #7: “Financial Success is About Luck”

    People often credit financial success to inheritance, lucky investments, or good timing. While these factors can play a role, most financial success comes from consistent effort and smart decision-making.

    The Truth:

    Success with money is about habits, not luck. Small, consistent actions, like saving regularly and avoiding unnecessary debt have a greater impact than any windfall.

    How to Break Free:

    • Focus on what you can control, like reducing expenses and increasing savings.
    • Set clear financial goals and work toward them step by step.
    • Remember, slow and steady progress beats chasing “get rich quick” schemes.

    How Breaking Free from Money Myths Can Change Your Life

    When you stop believing these myths, you’ll gain:

    • Clarity: Understand where your money is going and how to make it work for you.
    • Confidence: Feel empowered to make decisions that align with your goals.
    • Control: Take charge of your financial future instead of feeling like a victim of circumstance.

    A Program to Help You Bust These Myths

    If you’re ready to break free from these limiting beliefs, programs like Master Your Money can provide the guidance you need. By combining education, tools, and support, you’ll learn how to manage your finances with confidence and ease.

    Conclusion

    The myths we believe about money often hold us back from achieving financial freedom. By challenging these misconceptions and adopting healthier financial habits, you can rewrite your money story and create the life you deserve.

    Remember, it’s not about where you star it’s about the steps you take to move forward. Start today by identifying one money myth you’ve believed and replacing it with a truth. You’ll be amazed at how quickly your mindset and your finances begin to change.

    The Master Your Money Program is for YOU if you are tired of financial stress and ready to transform your relationship with money. This is the same strategy that I followed to generate 6 figure income in just 3 months! Click the image below to learn more about this program.

    The 90 Day Money Makeover
    Click Here to Learn More About The Program
    Why Most Resolutions Fail (And How to Succeed with Your Finances This Year)

    Why Most Resolutions Fail (And How to Succeed with Your Finances This Year)

    Jan 6, 2025 | Book of the Week, Building Emotional Muscle, Building Financial Muscle, Credit Score, Debt, Debt Payment, Debt Repayment, Educational Series, Financial Health, Financial Management 101, Holiday Season, Holiday Spending, Home Loan, Retirement, Saving Money, Self Development, Side Hustle | 0 comments

    Every January, millions of people make resolutions, vowing to lose weight, save money, or finally organise their lives. Yet, by February, most of those resolutions are a distant memory. When it comes to finances, the stakes are even higher, failed resolutions can lead to continued debt, stress, and a lack of progress toward your goals. But why do so many resolutions fail? More importantly, how can you set yourself up for success, especially with your financial goals?

    This year, let’s break the cycle. Here’s why most resolutions don’t stick and how you can set realistic, actionable financial goals that actually work.

    New Year's Resolutions and Goals

    The Problem with Resolutions

    1. They’re Too Vague
    A resolution like “save more money” or “spend less” sounds great in theory, but without specifics, it’s destined to fail. What does “save more” mean? How much? By when? Without clarity, it’s easy to lose focus.

    2. No Plan, Just Hope
    Many resolutions rely on sheer willpower. While motivation can get you started, it won’t sustain you for the long haul. A solid plan is essential for turning intentions into results.

    3. All-or-Nothing Thinking
    Ever decided to “cut all unnecessary spending” and then given up after one unplanned purchase? All-or-nothing approaches set you up for failure because they don’t allow for flexibility.

    4. No Accountability
    When no one knows about your goals, it’s easy to let them slide. Having someone to cheer you on, or nudge you when you’re slipping makes a huge difference.

    Why Financial Intentions Are Different

    Financial goals often come with emotional baggage. Many of us have habits or mindsets about money that were shaped long before we started earning. Whether it’s fear of budgeting, guilt about past mistakes, or simply feeling overwhelmed, these emotions can sabotage even the best intentions.

    The good news? Financial habits are learnable. With the right mindset, tools, and support, you can rewrite your financial story.

    How to Succeed with Your Financial Goals This Year

    1. Get Specific About Your Goals
    Instead of “save more money,” try something like:

          • “Save $1,000 for an emergency fund by March 31.”
          • “Pay an extra $200 per month toward my credit card debt.”
          • “Spend no more than $400 a month on dining out.”

    Specific goals give you a clear target to aim for. Break them down into smaller, actionable steps, and you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment with every milestone.

    2. Create a 90-Day Action Plan
    While it’s tempting to set year-long goals, short-term plans are more effective. That’s why 90 days is the perfect timeframe—it’s long enough to make meaningful progress but short enough to stay motivated.
    For example:

          • Month 1: Assess your financial situation. Track all your expenses and create a realistic budget.
          • Month 2: Implement your budget and identify areas to cut back. Start small, like reducing subscription services or packing lunches for work.
          • Month 3: Focus on building momentum. Add any savings or debt reduction progress to your plan.
    While it’s tempting to set year-long goals, short-term plans are more effective.

    3. Reframe Your Money Mindset
    Your mindset plays a massive role in your financial success. If you believe “I’m just bad with money” or “I’ll never get out of debt,” those beliefs will hold you back. Instead, practice positive affirmations like:

          • “I am capable of learning new money skills.”
          • “Every small step I take brings me closer to financial freedom.”

    Even better, pair these affirmations with concrete actions. Every time you stick to your budget or save a little extra, you’re proving to yourself that change is possible.

    4. Start Small But Stay Consistent
    Big changes often fail because they’re overwhelming. Start with small, manageable habits that build over time.

          • Save $5 a day by skipping a coffee run.
          • Commit to a weekly money check-in where you review your budget and spending.
          • Set up automatic transfers to your savings account—even if it’s just $10 a week.

    These small wins add up and help build confidence and momentum.

    5. Track Your Progress
    It’s easy to lose motivation when you don’t see results. That’s why tracking is so important. Whether it’s a spreadsheet, an app, or even a notebook, record every step of your financial journey.

          • Watch your savings grow each week.
          • Celebrate when you pay off a credit card.
          • Note the changes in your spending habits.

    Seeing progress, no matter how small, reinforces your commitment to your goals.

    6. Find Your Why
    Why do you want to improve your finances? Maybe it’s to take your family on a dream vacation, eliminate the stress of living paycheck to paycheck, or finally buy a home.

    Your “why” is your motivation. Write it down, visualize it, and keep it front and center. When the going gets tough, reminding yourself of your deeper purpose will help you stay on track.

    7. Get Support
    Accountability is a game-changer. Whether it’s a friend, partner, or coach, having someone to share your goals with can make all the difference. Programs like the 90-Day Money Makeover offer a built-in support system, with resources, community, and guidance to keep you on track.

    Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

    1. Expecting Perfection
    You will slip up and that’s okay. What matters is how you recover. Instead of giving up after a mistake, ask yourself: “What can I learn from this?”

    2. Overloading Yourself
    Don’t try to tackle everything at once. Focus on one or two key goals at a time. Once you’ve mastered them, move on to the next.

    3. Comparing Yourself to Others
    Your financial journey is unique. Comparing your progress to others will only discourage you. Stay focused on your own goals and celebrate your wins.

    Conclusion

    This year, break the cycle of failed resolutions and make 2025 the year you take control of your finances. By setting clear goals, creating a plan, and staying consistent, you’ll build habits that last a lifetime.

    Remember: small steps lead to big changes. Start with one goal today, and by next January, you’ll be amazed at how far you’ve come. If you’re ready to supercharge your progress, join the LEARNING HUB and get immediate access to all courses and books including ongoing financial and mindset monthly coaching now.

    Financial Resolutions

    Your financial future is in your hands — let’s make it a great one! Click the button below to join the LEARNING HUB at FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT 101. It promotes long-term financial stability, provides insights into wealth-building strategies, and equips you with the skills to adapt to economic changes.

    The 90 Day Money Makeover
    JOIN THE LEARNING HUB TODAY!
    Year-End Financial Check-Up: 7 Key Steps to Close 2024 with Confidence

    Year-End Financial Check-Up: 7 Key Steps to Close 2024 with Confidence

    Dec 30, 2024 | Book of the Week, Building Emotional Muscle, Building Financial Muscle, Credit Score, Debt, Debt Payment, Debt Repayment, Educational Series, Financial Health, Financial Management 101, Holiday Season, Holiday Spending, Home Loan, Mindset, Mortgage, Relationships, Retirement, Saving Money, Self Development, Side Hustle | 0 comments

    As the year wraps up, it’s time to give your finances a little TLC and prepare to start the new year strong! Think of this as your yearly financial check-up, a simple routine that sets you up for a financially fit future. Here are seven straightforward steps to help you close out 2024 with confidence.

    1. Review Your Budget with Fresh Eyes

    December is perfect for giving your budget a quick health check. Ask yourself:

      • Did you stick to your budget most months?
      • Are there categories where you regularly overspent?

    If you find that certain areas of your budget were tough to stick to, don’t worry; you’re not alone! Make notes on what worked and what didn’t, and consider if those categories need adjusting. Next year’s budget will feel easier to manage if it aligns more closely with your actual spending patterns.

    2. Evaluate Your Financial Goals for 2024

    Reflect on the goals you set at the beginning of 2024. Did you aim to build an emergency fund, pay off a certain amount of debt, or save for a big purchase? Take a moment to celebrate any wins, big or small, you’ve earned it! If there were goals you couldn’t reach, try to pinpoint what might have held you back. Life happens, and sometimes, adjustments are necessary. Use these reflections to set realistic goals for 2025 that build on the progress you’ve made.

    Audit Your Subscriptions and Recurring Expenses

    3. Audit Your Subscriptions and Recurring Expenses

    Subscriptions can sneak up on you! Take a look at all the services you’re subscribed to, streaming platforms, gym memberships, software, meal kits and decide if they’re still worth the monthly or annual fee. Ask yourself:

      • Do you use each service enough to justify the cost?
      • Are there better deals or bundles that could help you save?

    Canceling or downgrading services you no longer use can free up cash you can redirect toward your savings or debt goals.

    4. Set a Holiday Spending Plan

    The holiday season can be a big budget-buster if you’re not careful. This December, approach holiday spending with a clear plan:

      • Set a total holiday budget and stick to it.
      • Focus on meaningful gifts within your budget and avoid last-minute splurges.
      • Consider experiences instead of material items, they often make more memorable gifts and can be cost-effective.

    You’ll thank yourself in January when your credit card bills aren’t sky-high!

    5. Check-in On Your Emergency Fund

     

    Your emergency fund is your financial safety net, and December is a great time to assess its status. Ideally, you want enough to cover three to six months’ worth of essential expenses.

    If your fund has been depleted due to unexpected expenses this year, make a plan to rebuild it. If it’s in good shape, well done!

    Consider adding a little extra, even if it’s just a small amount each month, it’s always better to be prepared.

    You want enough to cover three to six months’ worth of essential expenses on your emergency fund

    5. Update Your Financial Goals for 2025

    End the year by setting some intentional goals for 2025. These don’t have to be massive changes; small, achievable goals can have a big impact on your financial future. A few ideas:

      • Set a target for increasing your savings rate, even if it’s by a modest amount.
      • Commit to paying down a certain percentage of your debt.
      • Plan to invest in education or skills that could lead to higher income opportunities.

    Whatever your financial goals, write them down and keep them visible. By starting now, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle them come January.

    End the year by setting some intentional goals for 2025.

    Final Thoughts

    Closing out the year with a financial check-up is a powerful way to put yourself in the driver’s seat for 2025. These six steps are simple but effective and give you a clear view of your financial health. Here’s to closing out 2024 strong and stepping into 2025 with confidence!

    Are you ready to make 2025 your breakthrough year?

    MASTER YOUR MONEY is for YOU if you are tired of financial stress and ready to transform your relationship with money. Whether you’re managing a family, building your career, or chasing your dreams, this is your chance to gain the clarity, confidence, and habits you need to thrive.

    This is more than a mindset shift—it’s a transformational program that puts you on the path to lasting financial success! 🚀 Click the button below to book a call with Karen to see if this program is right for you!

    Mastering Budget and Saving Techniques
    BOOK A CALL WITH KAREN

    Pin It on Pinterest