Using Daily Reflection
Living on less than $50,000 a year can make you feel trapped, but your financial situation doesn’t define your potential. Many of us struggle with negative thoughts about money that hold us back from making positive changes. I’ve discovered that daily reflection can transform how you think about and handle money, and I’m going to show you exactly how to do it.
Morning Money Check-In
Let’s start with your morning routine. Just like you might check social media when you wake up, I want you to spend 5 minutes on a Morning Money Check-In. Grab your phone or a small notebook and write down one financial goal for today. I’m talking tiny goals here – maybe it’s packing lunch instead of buying it, or skipping that morning coffee shop run.
When I started doing this, I was amazed at how such a small habit helped me feel more in control of my spending. This simple practice puts you in the driver’s seat of your daily money decisions. Starting each day with intention puts you in control.
IMPORTANT NOTE: The key is keeping it achievable within 24 hours – no “save for retirement” goals allowed here!
Expense Tracking Without Shame
Next is a judgment-free way to record your daily spending. I call it my judgement free zone. We’ve all felt that gut punch of checking our account balance and wondering where the money went. That’s why I want you to record every purchase you make, but here’s the twist – no judging allowed. Use a free app like Mint or carry a small notebook.
Some people feel guilty about certain purchases, I get it. Just try tracking without judgment. The goal is to understand your real spending patterns. This awareness is powerful – it’s like turning on the lights in a dark room. You might be surprised by what you see, but that’s exactly what makes it valuable.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Don’t judge your expenses as “good” or “bad” – just record them honestly
Evening Victory List
Finally, end your day with what I love to call the Evening Victory List. Before you head to bed, take a moment to write down three money-wise decisions you made today. Maybe you used a coupon, walked instead of taking an Uber, or resisted an impulse buy. Notice your financial wins, no matter how small.
Those small wins add up to big changes in how you think about money. Even tiny victories count – celebrating them builds the confidence you need to make bigger changes later.
IMPORTANT NOTE: Include even tiny wins like using a coupon or skipping an impulse purchase
Recap of ...
Remember to follow these steps in order. The morning check-in sets your intention, tracking keeps you aware throughout the day, and the evening list celebrates your progress. Ready to start? Tonight, put a notebook by your bed or download that expense tracking app.
NEXT STEPS:
Take action right now – write down your first morning money goal for tomorrow. It can be as simple as “I will check my account balance” or “I will pack lunch.”
You’re already showing wisdom by working to improve your money mindset – that’s the first step to financial success, my friend.