"“I Need to Save More Money!” — Here’s How to Actually Do It

We've all said it — “I need to save more money.” But turning that thought into action?

That's the tricky part.

If you've been feeling the squeeze with today’s rising costs, you're not alone. I’ve helped hundreds of people make sense of their finances, and trust me, you’re not broken — the system is just complicated.

But here’s the good news: the journey to financial freedom doesn’t start with a six-figure income — it starts with clarity, small wins, and smart strategy. Let’s break it down with real tips that work.

🔎 Step 1: Know Where You Stand

Start with a financial check-in. Figure out what’s coming in, what’s going out, and what’s actually left. Check your net income (after taxes), list all your bills, and track those daily expenses. Pen and paper works just fine — or use an app like Mint or Rocket Money.

Why this matters: You can't change what you can’t see. This gives you control.

🧱 Step 2: Build a Budget That Fits You

Budgeting doesn’t have to be boring. Try tracking your spending for a few weeks and split it into two buckets:

• Fixed costs (rent, phone bill, insurance)

• Variable costs (groceries, gas, coffee runs)

Set SMART goals — not vague ones like “save more.” Try: “I’ll save $100 each month for the next 6 months.”

✂️ Step 3: Cut the Sneaky Costs

Think your subscriptions are harmless? Think again — most folks are leaking $200+ a month without noticing.

✅ Review the last 90 days of your bank/credit statements

✅ Cancel what you’re not using

✅ Negotiate bills (especially cable, phone, and insurance)

Even switching to meal prepping or finding free entertainment options can save you hundreds.

📈 Step 4: Grow Your Money

Once your budget is tight, it’s time to increase the cash flow.

Try:

• Side hustles like freelancing, coaching, or digital products

• Passive income options like REITs or selling templates

• Negotiating your salary (seriously — the average bump is $5K!)

💸 Step 5: Think Long-Term

Want real financial security? Plan beyond the month.

• Build an emergency fund (3–6 months of expenses)

• Max out that 401(k) or open an IRA

• Talk to your family about generational wealth — education and assets matter

💬 Final Thoughts

You don’t need to be perfect — just consistent. Start small, track your wins, and stay in motion. When you look back at this year, you'll see how far you've come.

Let’s make 2025 the year you stop stressing about money and start building the life you want. You’ve got this. 💪