Align Spending with Values for Lasting Financial Growth
Sarah Padilla
Too much month at the end of your money? I’ll teach you how to make your finances work for you | Money Coach & Wealth Planner | Transform Your Financial Future: Let’s Chat! ??
When it comes to spending, we all have good intentions. We want to put our money toward things that truly matter—our dreams, our goals, our values. But if you’ve ever checked your bank account and wondered… How did I spend so much on things I barely remember?” … you’re not alone.
I’ve been there. Back when I was starting to rebuild my finances, my spending habits didn’t match the life I wanted. I said I valued financial freedom and travel, but my money was going to convenience meals, impulse buys, and subscriptions I forgot I even had. It felt like I was working hard but getting nowhere.
If this sounds familiar, it’s time to realign your spending with your values. And no, this doesn’t mean giving up all the fun stuff—it’s about making sure your dollars are helping you build a life you’re excited to live.
?
Step 1: Get Clear on What You Value
Before we dive into numbers, let’s do a little soul-searching.
Ask yourself:
For me, I wanted travel and financial freedom. Once I got clear on that, it was easier to see which expenses weren’t serving my goals.
?
Step 2: Track Your Spending
I know, I know—this part sounds boring. But hear me out. For one month, track every penny you spend. Yes, every penny.
Here’s what you’ll learn:
Use an app like YNAB, EveryDollar or check out your banking app to automatically categorize your transactions. Heck, go old school with a notebook. The goal is awareness.
?
Step 3: Create a “Values-Based” Budget
Now comes the fun part: building a spending plan that reflects your values.
Here’s how to start:
Pro tip: Automate your savings. For instance, if you value travel, set up a “Travel Fund” and contribute to it monthly. Watching it grow will keep you motivated! Pay your future self first, then assign an amount to “spending” or a “fun money” category to spend what’s left guilt-free.
领英推荐
?
Step 4: Redefine “Splurging”
Splurging isn’t bad—it’s just about doing it with intention.
Instead of mindless spending, think about value-per-dollar. Will this purchase bring long-term happiness or short-term relief? Instead of three takeout meals, invest that money into a gourmet cooking class that aligns with your love for food. For me, cutting impulse buys made it easier to splurge on big-ticket items, like trips I’ll never forget.
?
Step 5: Check in Regularly
Your values might change, and that’s okay. Life happens! Set aside time (monthly or quarterly) to review your spending and make adjustments.
Think of it like a GPS for a road trip—you can always adjust to stay on course for your destination.
?
Why This Matters
When your spending aligns with your values, money becomes more than a tool. It becomes a way to live authentically and build a future you’re excited about.
And trust me, nothing feels better than knowing your financial choices are fueling your dreams—not just draining your wallet.
?
What about you? What’s one thing you’d love to prioritize with your money?
Let me know in the comments, or better yet, grab a pen and start brainstorming your values today.
Cheers to smarter spending and a life well-lived!
About Money Coach Sarah
As a passionate personal financial coach, I empower individuals to build healthier relationships with money and achieve financial freedom. Follow me on LinkedIn for more tips and insights.
I create email funnels for financial coaches. Actively investing for 5 years. Marketing experience of 4 years.
2 个月Thanks for sharing this. These steps can greatly help anyone towards spending with awareness, and at the same time, enjoy what they value most. My wife and I track all our expenses every month, that has helped us see patterns in our spending. We also follow a budget. But we can definitely define what we value more clearly.