Why Paying Attention to Your Daily Money Habits Matters

The Value of Awareness

Last week I talked about your money story – where our thoughts and feelings about money originated. This week we’re moving into the present and asking, “What is actually happening with my money right now?”

Not what you think or hope is happening. What is actually, honestly happening.

Why awareness is the foundation of everything

Most of us operate on financial autopilot. Money comes in, money goes out, and we hope things are basically working out. We have a general sense of our spending but don’t look too closely because we’re busy/it’s uncomfortable/we don’t really want to know…you choose the reason that applies to you.

Awareness might seem scary at first, but once you have a clear picture of where you are, you can begin making intentional choices. You need to know what’s happening now, so you can decide which improvements and changes you want to make.

The good news is awareness itself creates change. Simply noticing where your money goes can create a natural shift in how you spend. It puts you back in the driver’s seat instead of feeling like money is just something that happens to you.

What awareness actually looks like

Financial awareness doesn’t have to be complicated. It means checking your account regularly, noticing your spending habits, and paying attention to where your money goes.

It also means noticing your money feelings. Do you shop when you’re stressed? Spend when you’re sad/bored/lonely? How are your emotions tied to your finances?

This week’s action step

For the next seven days, I want you to try checking your accounts every day. Quickly glance at checking and savings balances, note your credit card balance, and just pay attention to what’s happening with your money. Notice what’s there, how it makes you feel, and any patterns that start to emerge over the week.

At the end of the week, set aside some time to think about what you learned. Awareness can have a huge impact on the way you manage your money day-to-day, so establishing this habit can naturally lead to positive changes.

Until next week ~Jen

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