Ever feel like your money is running the show instead of you? Whether it’s staying on top of bills, dealing with unexpected expenses, or just trying to save a little for the future, money can feel overwhelming. Lots of us feel that way, and it’s okay.
What do I want my money to do for me?
Before jumping into budgeting apps or savings plans, ask yourself: What do I want my money to do for me? Maybe it’s saving for your kid’s education, getting out of debt, or finally taking that trip you’ve been dreaming about. Naming the goals that are most important to you is the first step towards good money decisions.
Money isn’t just about stuff, it’s about what matters to you. We’re not just buying groceries or paying bills. Some of us value the security of knowing we’ll be okay even if something unexpected happens. Others crave the freedom to say “yes” to what matters, or “no” to what doesn’t. Generosity and helping your family or giving back to your community might be your guiding light. Maybe peace of mind is your priority, where the goal isn’t more money, but less stress. And for many, money is about self-respect and feeling proud of how we show up for ourselves, even when things are tough. These values shape how we spend, save, and even how we feel about money. They’re not always loud, but they’re always there helping us make choices that feel right. Not sure what your values are yet? That’s okay. Just starting to think about them is a great first step.
We all use little mental shortcuts to make decisions. Some are helpful—like setting up automatic savings so you don’t have to think about it. Others, like thinking “I’ll deal with it later,” can trip us up. Try to notice which ones are helping and which ones aren’t.
“I Deserve It!” : Ever treat yourself after a tough day, even if it means dipping into your savings? That’s your emotions calling the shots. It’s okay to enjoy your money—but make sure it lines up with your bigger goals.
“It Worked Before”: Just because something worked once (like buying a certain investment or shopping at a certain store) doesn’t mean it’ll work again. Our brains love patterns, even when they’re not really there.
“Everyone’s Doing It”: When friends are investing in something or buying a new gadget, it’s easy to feel like you should too. But what works for someone else might not be right for you, and FOMO (fear of missing out) can really mess with your budget.
“I’ll Deal with It Later”: Putting off money stuff like budgeting, saving, or paying off debt is super common. But waiting can make things harder later. A small step today is better than a big leap tomorrow.
The trick isn’t to get rid of these biases (we all have them!), but to notice when they’re popping up. If you catch yourself thinking on of these, pause and ask, “Is this spending helping me with my goals?”
You’re not “bad with money.” You’re someone who’s learning, growing, and trying, and that’s something to be proud of. That’s your money identity. Own it. Want to be someone who saves, invests, or gives? Start acting like it, even in small ways.
Ever read a money hack and forget it five minutes later? That’s normal. Our brains are busy! Do whatever it takes to keep yourself motivated and reminded of your money identity. Set a picture of your goal or motivation as your phone or laptop background. Use calendar reminders to keep on top of bill due dates. Write a quote that inspires you and stick it on your fridge or bathroom mirror.
You are smart, capable, and you deserve to feel confident about your money. You will make mistakes, and that's okay! Dust yourself off and keep going - every step you take is a win!
Money can stir up big feelings like fear, guilt, shame, even hope. Instead of ignoring them, ask: What are they trying to tell me? Maybe fear is reminding you to build a safety net. Maybe guilt is hinting that it’s time to make a change in your spending habits.
When you’re overwhelmed, reconnecting with your values can help you find clarity. It’s not about being perfect. It’s about being honest with yourself and building a money life that reflects who you are and what you care about.
Taking control of your money doesn’t mean doing it all at once—and it definitely doesn’t mean doing it alone. There are people right here in New Brunswick ready to offer advice and support without judgment. Whether it’s a friend, a licensed financial professional, or even reading stories from others—can help you feel less isolated and more empowered.
You’ve got this!