How to Feed a Family of Four for $400: The Ultimate Budget Meal Plan

Grocery prices have reached alarming levels, making every trip to the store feel like a financial burden. Many families wonder if they should start growing their own food or simply do without. However, before resorting to extreme measures, it is worth exploring a practical and affordable meal plan that allows a family of four to eat for just $400 per month.

Yes, It’s Possible! Here’s How.

In the most challenging financial situations, ensuring that a family remains well-fed requires a simple yet nutritious meal plan. While it may not be luxurious or varied, it provides sustenance and stability. Additionally, it eliminates the stress of deciding what to eat each day.

The Budget Breakdown

Breakfast: Oatmeal ($40.99 for a 50 pound bag)

  • A serving is ½ cup per person (2 cups total for the family).

  • Cost per day: $0.82

  • Total monthly cost: $24.60

Lunch & Dinner: Black Beans, Rice, and Vegetables

Black Beans ($49.99 for a 50 pound bag)

  • Each person receives ½ cup per meal (4 cups per day total).

  • Cost per day: $1

  • Total monthly cost: $30

  • Oatmeal and Black Beans prices obtained from a local grocery store in Fairfield, OH.

Rice ($24.99 for a 20 pound bag)

  • A serving is ½ cup per person (4 cups per day for the family)

  • A 20 lb. bag lasts 10 days, requiring three bags per month.

  • Total monthly cost: $74.97

Frozen Organic Mixed Vegetables (Costco) ($9.82 for a 5.5 pound bag)

  • To provide enough servings, 21 bags are necessary.

  • Total monthly cost: $206.22

  • Costco Membership: $65 (a worthwhile investment for other essential items as well.)

Grand Total: $400.79

Why This Works

This meal plan meets several key requirements:

✅ Affordability: Keeps costs around $400.

✅ Nutritional Balance: Oatmeal provides fiber and energy; beans offer protein and fiber; rice supplies carbohydrates; and vegetables contribute essential vitamins.

✅ Minimal Waste: Bulk purchases reduce trips to the store and limit impulse buying.

✅ Sustainability: While it may not be exciting, the plan ensures sufficient nourishment and financial stability.

Ways to Add Variety Without Breaking the Bank

  • Spices & Seasonings: Simple additions like salt, garlic, or hot sauce enhance flavor at little cost.

  • Seasonal Fruits: Low-cost, in-season fruits offer a natural source of sweetness.

  • Home Baking: With flour, sugar, and yeast, homemade bread provides an inexpensive alternative to store-bought options.

The Takeaway

While eating the same meal every day is far from ideal, having a structured and affordable meal plan ensures that no one in the household goes hungry. When grocery prices seem overwhelming, families always have options. Once financial circumstances improve, meal variety will become an even greater source of appreciation.

By planning wisely, staying nourished, and making the most of available resources, families can navigate difficult times while keeping their finances intact.

The Benefits of an Open Relationship: Why Financial Transparency Matters

In Al’s recent interview on Simply Money with Amy Wagner, he explored the power of financial transparency in relationships. While the phrase open marriage might make you think of adding another person, the real third party in this conversation is money. Al discussed why couples should treat financial openness as a non-negotiable, how to create a judgment-free space for money conversations, and practical steps to align financial goals. If you and your partner want to strengthen your financial bond, this episode is a must-listen!

Click below to listen to the full 8-minute conversation.

Why Beating the S&P 500 Might Not Mean What You Think

When financial advisors claim to have “beaten the S&P 500 over the past decade,” it’s easy to assume they have consistently outperformed the stock market. However, this statement can be misleading. Many people don’t realize that the S&P 500 index, as reported in the news, only reflects price appreciation—how much the stock prices have risen or fallen. What it doesn’t account for is the dividends those stocks pay, which can significantly impact overall returns.

Understanding the S&P 500

The S&P 500 is a stock market index that tracks the performance of 500 of the largest publicly traded companies in the U.S. Investors and financial professionals often use it as a benchmark for overall market performance. When news outlets report that “the S&P 500 is up 10% this year,” they are referring only to the price changes of the stocks within the index, not the total return investors receive.

The Role of Dividends

Dividends are payments that companies distribute to shareholders, usually as a portion of their profits. Not all companies pay dividends, but many large, stable corporations do. For example, if an investor owns 100 shares of a company that pays an annual dividend of $2 per share, they receive $200 per year simply for holding the stock.

Why Dividends Matter for Total Returns

The S&P 500 Total Return Index (SPTR) includes both price appreciation and dividends reinvested over time. Historically, dividends have played a crucial role in long-term market returns. According to historical data, from 1990 to 2020, the S&P 500 price index grew at an average annual rate of around 7.5%. However, when dividends were reinvested, the total return was closer to 10.5% per year. Over a decade or more, this difference compounds significantly.

The Power of Dividend Reinvestment

Reinvesting dividends means using them to purchase additional shares of stock rather than taking them as cash. This strategy can accelerate wealth accumulation because new shares generate their own dividends, leading to exponential growth. For example, an investor who put $10,000 into the S&P 500 in 1993 and reinvested all dividends would have seen their investment grow to more than $150,000 by 2023, compared to approximately $90,000 if they only relied on price appreciation.

The Truth Behind “Beating the Market”

When an advisor claims to have outperformed the S&P 500, it’s essential to ask whether they are comparing their results to the price index or the total return index. If they’re only measuring against price appreciation, their claim may not be as impressive as it seems. To truly assess performance, investors should compare returns to the S&P 500 Total Return Index, which accounts for both stock growth and dividends reinvested.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between the S&P 500’s price index and its total return index can help investors make more informed decisions. Dividends are a critical component of market returns, and their reinvestment can significantly enhance long-term wealth-building strategies. Before trusting an advisor’s claim of “beating the market,” it’s worth digging deeper to see what they’re really measuring.

The Benefits of an Open Relationship

The term "open relationship" often conjures images of unconventional romantic arrangements, where partners expand their connections beyond the traditional duo. But what if the third party in this relationship wasn’t a person? What if it was money? By treating money as an active participant in their relationship, couples can unlock deeper levels of trust, understanding, and collaboration. Here are four key benefits of opening a relationship to include money.

Deeper Communication

Strong relationships thrive on open communication, and involving money in the dynamic takes honesty to a new level. Discussing finances—whether it’s income, spending habits, or long-term goals—pushes couples to engage in candid conversations that might otherwise be avoided. Addressing these topics head-on can help clarify misunderstandings, uncover hidden worries, and strengthen trust. Couples who make money part of their dialogue often report that communication improves across other aspects of their relationship as well.

Shared Vision and Alignment

Introducing money into the relationship encourages partners to align on long-term goals. Whether saving for a dream vacation, investing in a new home, or planning for future milestones, financial discussions ensure both individuals are on the same page. This alignment fosters a sense of teamwork and reduces potential conflicts over spending or saving. Experts often note that a shared financial vision strengthens the overall partnership by creating a unified path forward.

Less Financial Stress

Money is one of the most common sources of tension in relationships, but it doesn’t have to be. An open approach to finances allows couples to face challenges together, such as managing debt, budgeting for unexpected expenses, or planning for major purchases. Tackling these issues as a team transforms money from a source of stress into a tool for building security and stability. This collaborative approach strengthens the relationship and provides peace of mind.

Heightened Emotional Connection

Incorporating money into a relationship isn’t just practical—it’s intimate. Financial discussions often reveal deeply personal aspirations, fears, and values, fostering greater emotional closeness. Celebrating wins together, like paying off a credit card or hitting a savings milestone, creates shared moments of pride and joy. Over time, these experiences deepen the bond between partners, as they build a life that reflects their mutual goals.

Redefining Openness

An open relationship with money isn’t about creating complications or introducing chaos; it’s about embracing collaboration and transparency. Like any successful relationship, it requires trust, communication, and shared commitment. When money becomes an active participant in the partnership, it can serve as a bridge that strengthens bonds and fosters growth.

After all, love and partnership are about more than just feelings—they’re about building a life together. Inviting money into that journey can help couples create a future filled with purpose, connection, and success.

Financial Tips for the New Year You Won’t Want to Quit

Each January, millions of people set ambitious resolutions to improve their finances, health, and overall well-being. Yet, by the second Friday of the month—dubbed National Quitter’s Day—many have already abandoned their goals. The truth is, setting the bar too high can make change feel overwhelming. But when it comes to personal finance, small, achievable steps can lead to lasting transformation.

Here are five financial habits you can adopt this year that are so simple and rewarding, you won’t feel the urge to quit.

1. Give Every Dollar a Job

A budget isn’t a straitjacket; it’s a tool to help make your money behave. Begin by listing your monthly income and expenses. Then, assign each dollar a specific purpose—whether it’s paying bills, building an emergency fund, or treating yourself to a small indulgence. When every dollar has a job, you’ll feel more in control and less stressed about where your money is going.

2. Celebrate Small Wins

Financial progress doesn’t have to mean paying off all your debt or saving thousands overnight. Did you pack lunch three days this week instead of eating out? That’s a win. Did you add $20 to your savings account? Another win. Celebrating these small victories keeps you motivated and reinforces positive financial behaviors.

3. Automate Good Habits

One of the easiest ways to stick to your financial goals is to automate them. Set up automatic transfers to your savings account or retirement fund on payday. Use apps to round up your purchases and save the difference. When saving and investing happen automatically, you’ll make progress without even thinking about it.

4. Track Your Spending Without Judgment

Tracking your expenses is like looking in the mirror—it helps you see what’s working and what needs adjustment. Use a notebook, spreadsheet, or an app to record your purchases. Approach this exercise with curiosity, not criticism. The goal isn’t to feel guilty but to gain awareness and make informed choices.

5. Find Your “Why”

Financial goals feel more attainable when they’re tied to a deeper purpose. Are you saving for a family vacation? Paying off debt to reduce stress? Building wealth to support your ideal retirement lifestyle? Keep your “why” front and center. It’ll serve as a powerful motivator when challenges arise.

The Power of Progress

Financial wellness isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. By adopting manageable habits and celebrating every step forward, you’ll build confidence and momentum. Remember, your relationship with money is a journey, not a sprint.

This National Quitter’s Day, choose not to quit. Instead, commit to small, sustainable changes that will transform the way you think, feel, and act about money. As the weeks and months unfold, you’ll find yourself not just sticking to your financial goals but thriving because of them. And that’s a resolution worth keeping.

A Simple Hack to Avoid Payday Gymnastics

Many working adults can have great jobs, impressive titles, and solid incomes, yet still find themselves in the exhausting world of “payday gymnastics.” It’s a game that involves stretching every dollar, juggling due dates, and somehow keeping a sense of financial sanity intact.

Managing cash flow may not sound glamorous, but for those who sigh in relief when payday finally arrives—only to watch half of it disappear overnight—this challenge is all too real. There’s a simple, no-nonsense trick that can ease the stress without winning the lottery or taking on a second (or third) job: changing a few bill due dates.

Consider this familiar scenario: paychecks hit the bank every two weeks, right on schedule, but bills seem to operate on their own chaotic timetable. The car payment is due on the 10th, the electric bill swoops in on the 22nd, and the mortgage/rent unapologetically claims its share on the 1st. These due dates don’t align with paydays, creating a never-ending game of catch-up. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to smooth things out and put an end to the exhausting payday gymnastics—and it all starts with timing.

Many companies allow customers to adjust their due dates. Utility companies, car loan providers, and even credit card issuers often let people shift payment dates to better align with their pay schedules. It’s a simple change, but it can dramatically improve cash flow throughout the month.

Imagine if, instead of scattering bills like confetti, they could be grouped around payday. Suddenly, managing money feels less like an episode of Survivor and more like a walk in the park. With just a few phone calls, anyone can reduce the stress of juggling due dates and gain a sense of control over their finances. While changing due dates won’t create extra income, it can help take the edge off and provide some peace of mind.

Cash flow management doesn’t have to feel like an endless game of payday gymnastics. By simply aligning bill due dates with paydays, people can reduce financial stress, avoid unnecessary juggling, and take a meaningful step toward better financial control. It’s a small change, but one that can make a big difference. So, for anyone who’s ready to bring a little more calm to their cash flow, it’s time to make those calls, set those dates, and say goodbye to the financial acrobatics.

Fear Can Make You Broke

During a recent trip to Georgia for his nephew’s college graduation, Al had an opportunity to visit the home of his sister’s brother-in-law, Tim. He and his wife recently purchased a house and invested in some upgrades. Al was excited to take a tour.

While Al and Tim were hanging out in the basement man cave, Tim’s 9-year-old daughter, Skylar, kept walking down the first three steps and peeking to see what was going on. Eventually Tim asked, “Skylar, what are you doing?” She responded, “I’m trying to see when might be a good time to sell my bracelets.” This caught Al’s attention and he said, “Come on down and let me see what you have.”

Skylar showed Al her clipboard which contained a sales brochure and order form. She also displayed her container of bracelet making materials in assorted colors. Al loved how Skylar had a price list for her products and advertised the upcharge for charms and bracelets that contained more than two colors.

Everyone can learn some valuable lessons from Skylar. She had an idea and did not talk herself out of trying. She executed and turned her idea into income. Once Skylar made her sales pitch, Al decided to purchase a bracelet for his wife. He chose green and gray since their wedding colors were seafoam green and silver. Al agreed to the upsell and purchased a heart-shaped charm as well.

Once Skylar made the sale she stated, “If you don’t have cash, I accept CashApp.” Skylar provided better customer service than most adults. She was not afraid to make a sales pitch, talk about her product, and close the sale. She also made Al’s bracelet in about two minutes while he waited.

Later that evening Al saw Skylar at a dinner party with her parents. She walked toward him and as fate would have it, he was sitting beside his wife. Skylar asked, “How did your wife like her bracelet?” This was a simple question, but very effective. Al’s wife told Skylar how much she absolutely loved her new bracelet.

Regarding your relationship with money and letting fear get in the way of  progress, follow these tips:

  1. Identify areas of opportunity – What behaviors can you begin, or do more of, which would have a positive impact on your financial future?

  2. Make an effort – In the game of life, you will miss 100% of the shots you do not take. If living by a budget could help you save more, reduce debt, or improve your quality of life, what steps can you take to learn this important skill?

  3. Seek wise counsel – Once you have determined a plan of action, share it with someone who excels at money management to solicit feedback. Make adjustments as necessary.

Everyone, at some point in their life, experiences fear. The problem occurs when fear causes inaction. The next time you experience fear, just remember the story of Skylar’s Super Bracelets.

Should and Could Learn Financial Lessons From Their Parents

Once upon a time, in a bustling neighborhood in Money Town, Ohio, there lived a delightful couple named Mr. and Mrs. Would. They were loving parents to two lively children, Could and Should. Now, Could and Should were quite the dynamic duo, always up for an adventure and eager to explore the world around them.

However, there was one little hiccup in their family routine — their fondness for dining out or ordering food through Uber Eats and DoorDash. Mr. and Mrs. Would found themselves frequenting restaurants more often than not, indulging in delicious meals without much thought about the impact on their finances.

One sunny afternoon, as Could and Should were playing in the backyard, Mr. Would had a brilliant idea. "Why don't we try cooking at home more often?" he suggested to Mrs. Would. "Not only will it be fun, but it could also help us save some money."

Mrs. Would was initially hesitant. She loved the convenience of dining out and the excitement of trying new dishes. However, after a bit of convincing from Mr. Would and seeing the enthusiasm in Could and Should's eyes, she agreed to give it a try.

And so, the Would family embarked on their culinary adventure. They gathered in the kitchen, donning aprons and chef hats, ready to whip up a delicious meal together. Could and Should were thrilled to be involved, eager to learn the art of cooking from their parents.

As they chopped, stirred, and seasoned, Mr. and Mrs. Would took the opportunity to teach Could and Should some valuable financial lessons. They explained how cooking at home can be more cost-effective than dining out, allowing them to save money for other things they enjoy, like family vacations or outings.

"See, Could," Mrs. Would said with a smile, "by preparing our meals at home, we're not only enjoying quality time together as a family but also being smart with our finances."

Should nodded in agreement, eagerly flipping a pancake on the stove. "And imagine all the cool things we could do with the money we save!" he exclaimed, his eyes sparkling with excitement.

As the delicious aroma of their homemade meal filled the air, the Would family sat down to enjoy their creation. With each bite, they savored not only the flavors but also the satisfaction of knowing they had cooked something special together.

From that day on, Could and Should embraced the joy of cooking at home with their family. They discovered new recipes, perfected their culinary skills, and most importantly, learned the importance of being mindful of their spending habits.

The Would family's experience reminds us that sometimes the simplest things, like a home-cooked meal shared with loved ones, can teach us the most valuable lessons —  both in the kitchen and in our finances. The next time you're tempted to dine out or order in, remember the wisdom of Could and Should: with a little creativity and a dash of thriftiness, anything is possible.

Reset Your Finances During Black History Month

According to Pew Research Center, approximately 40% of Black adults say they have an emergency fund that would cover their expenses for three months. One of the main reasons people go into debt is because they lack the necessary cash to pay for the unexpected in life.

If you began 2024 with a New Year’s resolution to get your finances in order, but have not made much progress, consider investing in some form of coaching. If Al and Lesia, who aren’t that different from you, were able to get their financial house in order, chances are you can too. Here’s the secret: You must be intentional about how you invest your time on the front end to get a return on your investment on the back end.

Let’s assume, during their first year of marriage, Al and Lesia spent 3 hours each month (36 hours per year) perfecting, more like arguing about, their spending plan. Now, they spend approximately 5 minutes each month (1 hour per year). Here’s another way to look at it. They saved over 700 hours (35 hours/year x 21 years) by being intentional with money early in their marriage. What would you do with this much extra time? Answer: Have more fun!

When people make the choice to let money happen to them instead of them happening to money, it causes more stress. Do yourself a favor and start counting your money then giving every dollar you earn instructions to make sure it behaves. If, after a few months, you are not satisfied with the results, go back to your old way of doing things.

Read Pew Research Center article

Riddicks Celebrate 16 Years of Debt-free Living

The expression “Happy Anniversary” can often be applied to more than just weddings and years of employment. On December 21, 2023, Al expressed these words to Lesia and her response was, “For what?” Al was acknowledging their accomplishment of living another year debt-free. In fac, over 75% of the couple’s 21 years of marriage has been lived without any consumer debt.

Making the decision to buy your life back is one of the most difficult challenges people face as they strive to achieve a debt-free lifestyle. After looking back on their journey, here are a few tips that helped the Riddicks:

  • Marry the right person: Financial disagreements are bound to happen, however, when both parties can come to a mutual agreement, it reduces stress.

  • Understand your spouse’s relationship with money. Questions that begin with what, when, or how usually produce the best answers. Avoid using the word why because most people find it offensive.

  • Spend money on what you value as a couple.

  • Implement simple and easy-to-duplicate systems for saving, investing, and debt reduction.

  • Determine a monthly allowance that represents each person’s fun money.

  • Select a consistent day and time each month to review your spending plan for the next month.

  • Track what you plan to measure: projected spend versus actual spend, debt reduction, change in net worth.

  • Plan for predictability. Many aspects of your financial life are predictable and planning accordingly helps with cash flow management.

  • Rinse and repeat!

You Already Have Enough Discipline

  • One of the comments people often say when trying to figure out why they might be underperforming in the area of personal finance is, “I wish I had more discipline.” The funny part about this statement is that people already have discipline, but it usually has never been focused on money. How many ways can you think of in which discipline is displayed in your life on a weekly, if not daily, basis? Here are a few clues:

  • Going to work when you don’t feel like it

  • Keeping your barber, hair and nail appointments

  • Deciding what to eat for breakfast, lunch, and dinner

  • Making an effort to work out

  • Locking your car and house doors

  • Closing your garage door

  • Helping your children with their homework

  • Driving your children to and from school

Recently, Al proved to himself that he could be disciplined with something besides money. He went to Red Lobster for lunch and the waitress placed this in front of him:

During his past visits to Red Lobster, Al would have eaten all five biscuits and asked for more. In a previous newsletter, Al mentioned how he was able to get his cholesterol down to 183 from 221. Notice the one biscuit that is sliced in half. That is all he had.

When his meal came, he couldn’t take his eyes off the remaining 4.5 biscuits. Every time Al thought about giving in, he said to himself, “I have the power. These biscuits can’t control me!” One of the most difficult things a person can do is come face to face with one of their greatest temptations and not give in. That requires discipline. Al has it with money and now he has proven to himself that he has discipline with food. What one financial behavior can you modify during December to prove to yourself that you can control your behaviors with money? Remember, every journey begins with the first step and today could be your day.

If you need some inspiration, here’s a 30-second video featuring 7-time Grand Slam singles champion Venus Williams and her thoughts on discipline:

https://www.tiktok.com/@elenacardoneofficial/video/7264910022222564650

Financial Questions Most People Don't Answer

Discussing personal finance can be a sensitive topic for many individuals. Some questions may make people uncomfortable due to their financial situation, beliefs, or lack of knowledge. Here are five personal finance questions that some people might find challenging to answer:

 What is your current credit score, and how did you achieve that score?

Credit scores can reveal financial habits, debt levels, and past financial mistakes. People may be reluctant to disclose this information due to concerns about judgment or embarrassment.

 What are your total monthly expenses, and how much do you save each month?

Revealing one's expenses and savings can be uncomfortable, as it may expose financial vulnerabilities or demonstrate a lack of financial discipline. People might fear judgment or comparison with others.

 Have you ever declared bankruptcy or faced a financial crisis, and how did you overcome it?

Admitting past financial struggles can be difficult, as it involves discussing failures and setbacks. People may feel ashamed or judged for their past financial decisions or circumstances.

 How much debt do you currently have, and what are the interest rates on your loans?

Sharing details about debt can be uncomfortable, as it exposes financial liabilities and potential financial stress. Many individuals may worry about being perceived as financially irresponsible.

 What's your net worth, and how did you calculate it?

Calculating and discussing net worth involves sharing details about assets, liabilities, and financial accomplishments. People might hesitate to reveal this information due to concerns about being compared to others or feeling inadequate.

 It's essential to approach these questions with sensitivity and respect for individuals' privacy and comfort levels when discussing personal finance. Financial discussions should prioritize empathy, understanding, and providing helpful guidance rather than making anyone feel uncomfortable or judged.

Ever Think About Your Annual Physical and Personal Finance? You Should!

Getting an annual physical and personal finance strategies may seem unrelated, but they share several similarities in terms of the importance of regular assessment, proactive planning, and long-term well-being. Here's how they compare:

 Regular Assessment and Monitoring:

  • Annual Physical: An annual physical involves a comprehensive health check-up to assess your overall well-being, detect any potential health issues early, and monitor your progress.

  • Personal Finance: Regularly reviewing your financial situation, budget, and investments allows you to track your financial health, identify areas of improvement, and make necessary adjustments.

 Preventive Measures:

  • Annual Physical: Doctors may recommend preventive measures such as vaccinations, screenings, and lifestyle changes to avoid potential health problems.

  • Personal Finance: Implementing strategies like building an emergency fund, having adequate insurance coverage, and maintaining a budget can prevent financial crises and minimize the impact of unexpected events.

 Long-Term Planning:

  • Annual Physical: Doctors help you develop a long-term health plan based on your current health status and risk factors, focusing on maintaining or improving your health over time.

  • Personal Finance: Creating a long-term financial plan involves setting goals (e.g., retirement, education), saving and investing strategically, and adjusting your plan as circumstances change.

 Early Detection and Correction:

  • Annual Physical: Catching health issues early allows for prompt treatment and a higher chance of successful recovery.

  • Personal Finance: Identifying financial problems or oversights early lets you address them before they escalate, potentially saving you from larger financial challenges later on.

 Proactive Lifestyle Changes:

  • Annual Physical: Doctors may recommend lifestyle changes (e.g., diet, exercise) to improve your health and prevent future health problems.

  • Personal Finance: Making positive financial changes like cutting unnecessary expenses, increasing savings, and avoiding debt can lead to improved financial health and future stability.

 Expert Guidance:

  • Annual Physical: Healthcare professionals provide expert advice and guidance based on your individual health needs.

  • Personal Finance: Financial advisors or experts can offer personalized advice to help you make informed decisions, manage risks, and achieve your financial goals.

 Consistency and Discipline:

  • Annual Physical: Regularly scheduling and attending annual physicals demonstrates a commitment to your health and well-being.

  • Personal Finance: Consistently following a budget, saving regularly, and sticking to your financial plan demonstrate discipline and contribute to your financial success.

 Both annual physicals and personal finance strategies emphasize the importance of proactive measures, planning, and ongoing evaluation to ensure your long-term well-being. Just as regular check-ups contribute to a healthier life, consistent financial management contributes to a more secure financial future.

Quitting Helps Improve Personal Finance Results

Most people have routines in their lives and personal finance is one area where good habits should be developed while bad ones are eliminated. This may seem simple at first; however, modifying a behavior that has existed for five, ten, or sometimes twenty years is one of the most difficult challenges a person can face. Just because a task is difficult to do does not mean it is impossible. Here are some habits to stop that could help the average person have a better relationship with their money:

Not setting financial goals: Without clear financial goals, it is challenging to stay motivated and make progress. Imagine driving a car without a specific destination in mind. Not only does this waste money in gas, it also decreases the likelihood that the journey continues because it is pointless. Define your short-term and long-term goals and develop a plan to achieve them.

Impulse buying: Avoid making unplanned purchases on a whim. Instead, practice spending with intention and only buy things that align with your financial goals and priorities.

Failing to track expenses: Monitoring expenses on a weekly basis helps identify areas where a person can cut back and save more. Most banks and credit unions allow people to download their transactions into a spreadsheet. Budgeting apps can also help with monitoring spending. Having access to this information is worthless if it is not used to make your money behave.

Ignoring budgets: Stop neglecting budgeting or not having a budget altogether. Creating and sticking to a spending plan is essential for understanding where your money goes and making informed financial decisions. Imagine running a business and accumulating expenses without ever comparing that total to the amount of revenue being created on a monthly basis. This behavior is not sustainable. It never has been and never will be. Click here to download the GTB cash flow planning tools to Google Drive

Not saving for emergencies: Avoid the mistake of not having an emergency fund. This basic step in the journey to financial wellness is what prevents people from achieving their potential. Instead of aiming to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses to cover unexpected financial setbacks, set a goal to save one months’ worth of grocery. Repeat this process every pay period and prove how simple it is to achieve a four- or five-figure emergency fund balance.

Using credit cards in a random manner: Relying heavily on credit cards without a plan to pay off the balance each month can lead to debt and interest payments that keep going and going like the Energizer Bunny. Instead of getting excited about earning cash back or reward points, focus that energy on increasing income to ensure the balance is paid in full.

Not investing or saving for the future: Failing to invest or save for long-term goals like retirement can hinder your financial growth and security. Start early and contribute regularly to retirement accounts and other investment vehicles.

Ignoring debts: Ignoring debt or making only minimum payments can prolong your financial stress and lead to higher interest payments. Develop a plan to tackle your debts strategically. Reference the GTB Debt Blitz form in the cash flow planning tools. 

Comparing yourself to others: Avoid comparing your financial situation to others. Focus on your own goals and progress. Most people only show you their spending habits. A person’s real financial truth can be answered with one question; How long can you survive without working for money?

Ignoring financial education: Personal finance is a lifelong learning process. Invest time in educating yourself about money management, investments, and financial strategies.

Breaking these habits requires discipline and consistency which everyone already has. The opportunity lies in replacing old bad habits with new positive habits like regular saving, investing, and budgeting. Over time, these changes will help build a strong foundation for better personal finance management.