10 MONEY HABITS THAT WILL CHANGE YOUR LIFE | FRUGAL FIT MOM

[@caitlinkill4816]

These tips were such great reminders! My husband has some good friends who are way “ahead” of us. They own two cars, have bought a very nice, large house and only purchase foods at Whole Foods. However, their life circumstances are way different. Both come from very wealthy families and did not have to pay for any college. They were given new cars as a graduation gift from college. Both my husband and I grew up in poor conditions. We have both put ourselves through college, and now paying off some loans. We have had health challenges that required many surgeries and we have those high bills. We were blessed with twins after our first child and we weren’t expecting those costs. Including a new car because three car seats wouldn’t fit in our old one. And a new car meant getting rid of my husbands and becoming a one car family. We have a lovely life and we love it, but to not look and compare is hard. My husband has taken a part time second job delivering pizzas. It’s amazing what a little boost in income a couple nights a week can do! We have bills going down so fast! We have a couple more years of paying things off, but the end is in sight!

[@debbiemoore9069]

Please stop looking at what you're friends have. It sounds like ya'll have been bless also. You both have gone to college. Ya'll have 3 beautiful kids. Ya'll have nice home. Yes your husband has gotten a second job but that has allowed ya'll to pay things off sooner and it might let ya'll save some money for a vacation or a second car later after ya'll paid off some bills. And it sounds like it's made ya'll stronger too. And only have one car just means ya'll get to spend more time together. And am sorry to hear ya'll have had some health problems. But now you said you're worry about how ya'll are going to pay them. So I take it your either better or might have to keep seeing a doctor. Then I hope God keeps blessing ya'll. Yes they might be small blessings and they might be slow in coming. But if ya'll stay strong and have faith and work together. Alot of things can happen.

[@BeautifulEarthJa]

It's hard not to compare no.matter how you KNOW you shouldn't. Keep strong luv, I know the feeling.

[@kimmartin2522]

You go girl, you guys are doing great!!!!

[@toniburdine1393]

It's hard not comparing but you have to think " how much are they paying"? While it may be tight for you; your bills are low.

[@sarahaziz6963]

A new car is always a bad idea, even when your rich

[@jonisnyder6011]

"You can have anything you want, but you can't have everything you want" -FFM Great quote!

[@karinatalamantes8142]

One thing ive learned as ive gotten older is that not everyone's priorities/life goals are the same.

[@brandicollins658]

Absolutely…including the Covid vaccine,.

[@deborahcuenca5282]

Can I just say I absolutely LOVE this woman?! 🥰😅 She is just so non-pretentious, so genuine, so real… I also love how she doesn’t waste our time with fluff, is very pleasant, doesn’t have an annoying voice and of course gives us spectacular tips and ideas. Her energy and positivity are very uplifting also. 😆 She’s very practical and impresses me with her frugality. I’m absolutely hooked and can’t wait to see more of her videos. I’ve seen about 20 so far in about 1-2 weeks. 😅

[@dianegarrett7187]

Thank you for telling me about: HARRY'S products.🙌🎊

[@carmarasmussen8118]

Of course you would want us to be successful. Successful, kind, generous people generally want others to be successful as well. 😇

[@kellyb1419]

Well said! 😁

[@floridanativelh568]

Love her. She is so real😀

[@heatherjohnson2511]

As far as having the same car as the neighbors, we don't, we have a Mustang, it's older, but beautiful blue, our house is yellow, and everyone else has grey, brown or white, we didn't plant trees we have a huge rock garden with bird feeders and small flowering plants, and our yard isn't even grass cause it grows to fast and requires too much water, we have white clover, it's softer, repels ticks and feeds the bees. We are trail blazers. The neighbors can follow each other, we do what we like. 😁😁😁❤

[@Tesabr1]

Love the clover idea.

[@kimwarner1681]

It sounds pretty to me.

[@criticRN]

Yay clover 🍀!! 👍🏽

[@MS-iz7if]

Automating my savings is hands down the best thing that I have ever done in regards to my personal finances. 🙌 I have mine set up so that as soon as my paycheque is deposited, $150 automatically goes into a separate savings account. That means that $300 a month automatically gets put away - I don't see it, I don't miss it. I will still throw any extra money at the end of my pay period (even if its $10) into my savings, but its comforting to know that I am for sure saving each and every month.

[@Happy_life117]

Great tip! once my car was paid off, I automated that same payment to come out of the account on the same day and directed it to my savings account...was used to paying it so kept up with that payment only now it’s to me and my retirement fund!

[@renee6524]

I do the same!!! Its helping me pay for school!

[@nancyfarkas3592]

That’s great if you aren’t on a fixed income

[@nana820able]

@@joaquimrodriguez8961 Where do you put it?

[@ameliakat9982]

100% agree

[@abimol3802]

The first tip is so true. You never know if "The Jones' " are in debt to have the nice things. Decide for yourself what you want and need- no adult peer pressure. Great video Christine!

[@littlesongbird1]

100% agree. I used to feel little perplexed or even ashamed when I would see people my age who seemed to be able to afford things I wished I could (newer cars, trips, trips to salons, etc.) but then I learned that they were bad with budgeting and in debt or still living off of parents. Now I just focus on me.

[@CarFreeKC]

I agree -- I didn't have furniture for years because I couldn't afford what I wanted. I didn't feel a need to have furniture just because everyone else does. I ended up landing the sofa I loved on clearance marked down from $3000 to $900 by doing this. I snagged it instantly because I'd been saving. No regrets! I used the leftover to buy some nicer kitchen tools that would last for the long haul. As a result, I almost never eat out. I just spent $200 at TJ Maxx to replace my skillets, a few pots, and a couple knives after 15 years of heavy use. I will happily do that over eating out.

[@jillgott6567]

@@CarFreeKC Years ago a coworker stopped by my new home unannounced and during our visit commented I did not have a dining table and chairs yet she had one. I didn't say it but this coworker whose mom and dad let her live rent free for years to save a down payment, who gave her additional money to buy the mobile home, gave her the land free. Put in a driveway, septic, water, electric poles etc WAS not welcome in my home ever again. 40 years later I remember it it didn't hurt my feelings but showed me the kind of person she was.

[@CarFreeKC]

@@jillgott6567 Absolutely! I always just told people I hadn't found the perfect one yet and I was still looking. I did cave and buy a TV not because I wanted one but because people kept commenting on it. I waited until I found a good clearance sale and got one. I don't use it very often but sometimes it's nice to have. It's just a small 32", which at the time was a decent size (ha). I'd never get anything bigger and if/when this one dies, I won't replace it. Now, neighbors come over sometimes and usually mention how MUCH furniture I have. My living room is pretty huge at 400 square feet, probably about 38% of my apartment space. I probably really only have furniture in half of it. I'm fine with this. Small sofa, a few bookshelves tucked away against one wall, and a lot of empty space. I don't care. ha! One thing that WAS really important for me was a dining table. I don't use it often but I love having a space to share a meal with a friend.

[@Loly920]

People don't know if The Jones owe up to their wazoo.

[@susiesearight5740]

These are my favorite videos! This month marks off my full year of Snowball. I am unbelievably happy to say I paid off over $150K in debt in one year. I still don’t know how - but the numbers do not lie! I stick to my budget and I am INTENT with my money. Having a needs vs wants list is powerful. I now have a post it with the question WHY? on my laptop. Thank you!

[@FrugalFitMom]

WOW!!! Amazing job

[@leighannaustin1934]

You are such an inspiration to watch. You remind me why my husband and I chose not to keep up with all of our friends. We have been budgeting, paying off debt and cooking from scratch for the last two years and we are almost debt free including the house. Just about the time I'm ready to throw in the towel and spend that money you post a video like this. Thank you

[@frochoffthebranch]

Keep up the good work Leigh Ann that’s really exciting!!

[@ourgreatlittlelife-alexand7993]

I’m trying to recover my finances from my ex-husband kind of keeping me constantly in a hole of debt. I worked and had practically no access to my own earnings. I’m 25 and in a much healthier relationship now just trying to get back up :) I love your channel, Christine!

[@AerinAtTheDisco]

It gets better! It's a hard period now but you will get out of this bad situation and you will feel so proud of yourself when you're done!

[@ghostwriter8247]

Good for you! Keep chipping away at the debt. You are going to feel amazing when your paycheck becomes YOUR paycheck, and then you slowly see the money piling up in savings. It’s such a sense of freedom.

[@barbarabowman9238]

Never give anyone control of your earned income.

[@lisacarson6223]

I'm 55 and starting over after being in this same situation. I'm having trouble seeing the way but doing my best. I'm glad you were able to get into a better life so much sooner than I was.

[@kellbing]

I am an excellent saver. My biggest obstacle is having a husband who isn't. It is extremely frustrating.

[@antoniakohler9117]

Same for me! I'm rubbing off on him 😜 the trick is to not push and to lead by example. He's starting to realise just how much food he wastes or doesn't eat just down to poor planning and I now batch cook him a bunch of freezer meals so he doesn't buy takeaway all the time. It gets easier!

[@Lesh004]

Same! I can do without dvds, rentals, eating out, and projects. I’m very good at putting my wants aside. I even convince myself my needs are wants. He’s starting to come around though. And has stopped a lot of his spending to force me to buy things like much needed shoes and new vacuum. 😂

[@lady_stog]

Same here... It's driving me crazy 🙈

[@sharonberg4817]

I have to say I was proud of myself for starting at his birth, an auto deposit of $100 a month for his college fund. It was fun when the interest was $33 a month, so every 3 months it was like saving an extra $100. Sadly that bank was bought and the savings program ended. I realized $100 wasn't a lot of money, but it amounted to enough to pay for 2 years of community college & 2 years at a state university. BUT (as an ODD child/adult), to thwart me (?), he joined the military at 18.

[@hannahgleason9885]

Separate accounts help us a lot. We have an emergency savings account, an account just for bills, a joint spending account, and then we each have a personal spending account. We only keep debit cards for our personal and joint spending accounts so that we (mostly he 😁) aren't tempted to touch our savings or bills money.

[@lovebyrdsseasonings]

My husband and I follow most of these tips too. Love it!!! We became debt free end of 2021 except for our home 🔥 Hard work, but so worth it

[@sharondvorak6914]

We had to file Chapter 13 bankruptcy in the early 90's. We had to turn all of our earnings each month to a trustee. This was such a traumatic and heart-wrenching experience that to this day, we use cash, and no credit cards. We are doing so much better now.

[@melissai4798]

So sorry to hear, Recently been in a similar story x

[@CC-kr3mr]

When you said “make every penny scream” “rice and beans and ramen” I laughed so hard because I have been there! Thank you for sharing these tips. Ignore what everyone else is doing really spoke to me. Most North Americans (I am Canadian but the same rings true to Americans too) carry debt and statistically cannot come up with $5,000 in case of an emergency. Yet we look around and think we want the things/lifestyle that our neighbours and colleagues have. Peace of mind and financial freedom are so much more important to me than things, trips, fancy cars, etc and I truly think financial well-being is a mindset and lifestyle 🙏🏽

[@SayaCeline]

Switching to a (mostly) all cash budget has helped me so far. I'm using the envelope system and so far it's really helped me with all of the impulse shopping that comes with ADD. Especially in the grocery store! Having cash made me focus on how much I'm spending, which made me realize just how expensive those "cheap and easy" pasta dinners were!

[@bluefamily3937]

The Dave Ramsey system works! Since my neighborhood influences the vehicle I drive (#1)...I'm right on target driving my clunker!...I mean my paid off truck that needs some work done. :)

[@shahilanathan8067]

Hi. Do u have any suggestions for how much cash to keep? thanks

[@ryanbarbeau7426]

I wish I had you in my late teens and early 20’s. Now I’m in my mid 30’s trying to break all of these bad habits you’ve listed! I appreciate all of your knowledge!

[@FrugalFitMom]

You can do it!

[@tenthousanddaysofgratitude]

You will get there! Remember your priorities and celebrate the successes in your financial plans! You can do it!

[@laurahall7823]

So true…. I’m sharing this video with my college age daughter 🙂

[@dianasimplifies]

Never too late to start!

[@theblessedbudgetingflorist]

Getting your groceries brought to your car REALLY helps with the "temptation " spending!!

[@melissahuntsman1799]

A great idea to me was to have your emergency fund account at a completely different bank!! It’s way too easy to transfer when it’s at your primary bank

[@kimwoodard9788]

I have mine in a HYA at an online bank that is attached to a completely separate account at a different physical bank in my area. I made it extra hard. 😁

[@lydiabuck8332]

This is actually a really good idea!!!

[@addie2754]

Just wanted you to know you’ve been such a force of good in my young adult life. I’m early 20s, living on my own, in school, and you’ve helped me in so many spheres: kitchen, money, fitness. You’re the best Christine. If you ever do a meet up in UT this girl will be there!

[@janedoe9421]

Need/want. A new couch. For the first time in my life I've got a new couch. It was a want by me and a need by my husband. He has RA and our old hand-me-down couch became too soft for him. Just delivered this morning 😉

[@michellejaggard9657]

My first time here, I also did the debt free journey, I and my husband are debt free, Feels great. Especally at our age, 68 and 74. We also prepare for hard times to feel secure and spend most of our time at home because of covid, We have no problem with this. we have always been homebodies, We read, we each have 3 or 4 lap tops, I have lots of material and love to sew and garden, take walks every day. I'm going to hang around and go back and watch your other videos, Thank you so much, I hope a lot of your viewers listen to your messages, Hard times are coming.

[@zaryabamin9479]

Your point of ignoring and stop imitating others is a must, I see this mostly in women but some men also. Glad to see you as a woman have your priorities right. Thank you for the valuable info

[@maeganricks1906]

I love your tip of knowing your triggers. I love a deal and it’s hard to put something down when it’s a deal but NOT in the budget.

[@nancyfrazier2648]

Yes to an "allowance" When My husband was in Med School, we had about 0 extra dollars per week but we each squeezed in something special - a 6 -pack of beer for hubs and a magazine for me. Made all the difference in our attitudes for the week!

[@toniburdine1393]

I've never tried to keep up with others but my husband did teach me not to buy unless you can pay cash. Being raised poor and seeing my mom's shop Aarons so much I thought that was the way to go. My husband taught me different and I'm so glad. Now we work together and make it happen. Are we rich? Nope not at all but thank God we aren't materialistic and manage. Plus no debt.

[@jens8279]

Your separate savings account tip is priceless! I started a separate savings account with my company’s employee credit union 20 years ago when I started working for them. It’s about a 45 minute drive for me, so I can’t just get to it immediately if I have a burning desire to go blow some cash! Lol My deposit comes out of my paycheck every week, I never see it, so I don’t think about it. Over the years it was there to pay a large physical therapy bill after knee surgery, to put a new roof on my house, to put in a new drain field for my house, and will now soon be putting all new central heat and air in my house! It’s been the best safety net I’ve had financially for my whole life. And it’s out of sight, out of mind! Love your videos! You’re the best!

[@tacos_are_life]

For me, number 1 speaks volumes! Comparing ourselves to others, and feeling like we aren’t good enough because we are measuring ourselves to people we come in contact with is definitely something that our society would benefit from working on. 🙏🏼

[@AerinAtTheDisco]

I always did my best with money but I didn't have any help. I took the cheapest apartment and no utilities (no cell phone, no tv, no internet) to pay my student loan as fast as possible. I managed to pay it almost completely in a year but I did NOTHING else. My significant other came along during that time and lent me the money to make me 100% debt free! Now we live well within our means. We keep our lifestyle low cost, we buy used, we don't have payments on our cars, we save before buying anything (furniture, appliances, vacations, etc.), and we focused the first few years on paying back the house ASAP so now we have no payments except utilities! It was definitely hard and still is because sometimes we just want to buy the things, but seeing everyone our age struggle to make ends meet helps us remember why we do it!

[@kellyb1419]

Thankyou Christine, for not just letting us enjoy you and your personality (and your family's too 😉)... but also your content... being everything... saving, how to's, cooking, shopping, family... everything!! 😘

[@margal3120]

Really enjoyed this one!! I’d also suggest ASKING FOR A RAISE. Women are woefully underpaid “glass ceiling” and those of us who are super dedicated to our craft should be paid for it! No time for a side hustle - that IS my side hustle lol

[@janaeanne2653]

As a woman with Master’s degree I’ve been underpaid for all of my career. I blame this on being in a women’s field, Social Work, and not getting respect for the work. Now I am retired and am still feeling effects so very little retirement income including low social security payment. It’s very difficult but I know the reason why.

[@missyprissyable]

My mom drummed one main lesson in to me. NEVER care what anyone does or says. ALWAYS do what is right for you and God.

[@millieh.-nyc6537]

Wonderful tips. Growing up, I remember my mom (single parent) incorporated most, if not all, in her lifestyle habits. I saw the success of her being able to save for that special occasion or gift that I did it as well. I had started babysitting & saved some of my money in my rainy day coffee can. Of course, I've continued the practice (from coffee can to bank & investments). There's nothing more critical than being free from debt. It's freedom! Be well.

[@kennieloo6357]

“Earn more money” is my favorite tip. I wish more people did it instead of making excuses for why they’re “stuck”. It all comes down to how bad do you want something.

[@karacole2304]

We had a friend who purchased a house for $500K while they still had a house worth $700K. We lived in an apartment. It’s not nearly as nice as their house, but we realized we have what we can afford and that’s okay for now. Seeing their beautiful home is motivating us to save for our own though. I have had to stop buying makeup or, let’s be honest, walk into pretty much any store out of boredom. Once you sit down and look at your finances, it’s amazing how much $$$ you may find that you waste weekly or daily… Thank you for your channel.

[@desireea1407]

On the topic of being frugal: Invest in a safety razor instead of a shaving subscription. If you take care of it and buy a large value pack of razors it will save you so much money.

[@maryrochon9083]

My mom said you can have everything you want in life...just not all at the same time. Thank you for these videos. I am on a low budget journey!!

[@Babba08]

Yes, evaluating why you're so anxious to buy something is really smart. Also, even for things that it seems we really need, we sit on it for a couple of weeks and if at the end of that time we still really need it, then we'll purchase it.

[@klouise2800]

#1 - We all need to look more inward at our own lives and what makes us happy rather than looking outward at everyone else. Great video!

[@dinrufarore]

I am already doing most of the things on this list, but remembering 'you can have anything you want, but you can't have everything you want' really stuck out to me as something so obvious and wise that hadn't quite clicked for me yet. Thank you!!

[@FerrisFamRanch]

Ahhh! I just absolutely love and agree with all the tips!…girl wish someone would have said these things to me in my 20’s! Had to learn it the hard way. Thank God I got awareness before my mid 30’s. Keeping up with the Jones and having self awareness of my “spending soft spots” absolutely hard for me at 25. Now 40 I don’t give a rats bottom about what anyone else has or does and look at my purchases as “does this add value to my life and goals?” Great advice! Keep it up!!!!

[@spareroomcreations4560]

When I heard "God Blessed Texas" by Little Texas this morning, I thought of you! I am almost a new mom.and my years of access to disposable income are coming to an end. I've been watching and learning from your and your cHannel. There is a possibility that my daughter may have special needs and I hope to make a channel to help and connect with other mothers. Thanks for everything!

[@ItCameFromAVlog]

Comparison will kill your joy. As I got to know my neighbors, I learned many of them are in debt 30-40k in credit cards alone! We all make about the same and bought our homes at the same time. I can't imagine the weight of the debt. So stressful! You're totally right about not knowing what's going on behind others closed doors.

[@jodischoolcraft9188]

Life hack… Anything you have left over in checking $$ the day before you get paid transfer it to savings… And do not go food shopping the day you think you need to go… Wait at least one or two more days and be creative

[@annecurtin336]

My favorite tip is to stay out of stores that tempt me - I never go into Dollar Tree alone - or bookstores either. It is just too risky - as is retail therapy, an old favorite.

[@kristyh982]

Automate everything you can! Not just bills and savings but having cat food/littler, chronic meds, basically anything you always normally buy on a schedule. It is so helpful w the brain space!

[@brentderksen]

Ignore everyone!!! We lived in a holiday trailer for two years so we could build our home ourselves, in Canada... The general public were under the impression they must be desperate and hate life. We did fine.

[@FrugalFitMom]

I love that!

[@beccaplans]

My Top 2 Fave Tips from this video are: 1-Identify Wants vs Needs 2- Identify your Why/reasons I should or shouldn't buy an item. I literally just found you/your channel last night/yesterday and already de-cluttered my entire basement + bedroom and re-arranged my furniture while I was at it. I got rid of takeout menu's, paper clutter I don't need, I unsubscribed from many email newsletters and subscriptions, I went on my IG page and unfollowed about 100 ppl that don't make me feel good when I see their content, I did 2 loads of laundry and then made 2 piles of donate and trash for a lot of that stuff. And today, I am taking your tips in this video to write out my purchases for the last 3 months and highlighting the ones that were "boredom" or "wanted" purchases and I'm going to probably end up logging out of Amazon. I just got a new job that pays more and will make saving workable for me. I'm helping my mom tonight with De-Cluttering kitchen utensils, especially those 'uni-taskers' where they're only good for 1 purpose and throwing out or donating those things that we haven't used in over 2 or 3 years. If I haven't used anything in 2 years or less, it's going! I was watching But First, Coffee's 53 Items to Toss + stumbled upon your channel and I've hit Gold with your channel and your tips. I'm not even a mom yet and I find your tips + advice for saving money worthwhile and sensible. Thank you for inspiring me. I'm a new sub!

[@dianekreuzer3854]

You hit the nail on the head on so many of these. We choose to include an allowance in our monthly budget. My spouse & I are way different when it comes to money. He is a spender & I’m a saver. This has caused a lot of issues early in our debt payoff. So by giving us each a set of money(allowance) I could care less what he does with his & vise versa. I also believe having sinking funds to save for certain purchases has been key in helping us build our savings as well as not worrying if I’ll have money for the yearly insurance, taxes or vacation. Having it set up on auto draft where it’s like a bill is essential for us.

[@ericahempenstall7405]

You are spot on, if your not buying the product, you are the product, adore you channel x

[@jennifergleckler9569]

I put our savings in a separate bank as well. We use to buy brand new vehicles, but learned buying used is much nicer and saves thousands. I buy carpeting when necessary at rock bottom prices. I coupon no mater how much money we have. 😉 I buy a bed every 10 years. I bought freezers, yes freezers 3 to save more money. 😊 I use to buy shoes every month 17 pair a year. NO MORE! Wow! Wasted so much money for 4 years. Frugal Mom and just became a happy mom with money in savings. 😊😊👍🏻Your tips are spot on. Thank you for your awesome videos. I watch them all the time. 😊💕

[@Lesh004]

We will be switching over our emergency Fund to a different bank. We’ve been on Dave’s baby step 3 for a year. Every time we get close to 6 months we have to take from it. First vehicle repair, hvac repair, vehicle repair, hvac total replacement, unpaid leave due to sickness, and a whole lot of required dental work. At this point we’re not looking to “keep up with the jones” just to keep up with the train of unexpected expenses. 😂 I’m hoping that having the emergency fund out of sight will stop the train. 🤞 🙏 We do $100/month for fun money. I can go hardcore no spend hoard money. My husband is a spender though. He does a lot of small spending, mostly food related. lol

[@dianasimplifies]

Unfortunately that happens with the emergency fund, the year 2021 has been that year for us. Just keep plugging at it and you will do fine!!!!

[@astorytoldhere]

Great video! We have lived this way our whole 34 yr marriage….zero debt, raised 3 kids & paid for college for them (state schools & trade schools)…they are all married & living the same way they were raised. My favorite 1 of your tips? The sum total of them: PEACE

[@cherylland8110]

For us it was shocking to add u what we spent on the weekends for “entertainment” which was basically eating out. I still work a full time job and my husband wanted me to have an easier weekend so we got into the habit of eating out. When I was forced to work from home March 2020 and restaurants were closing and we decided to eat at home, holy smokes did we save a ton of money!

[@nichole4055]

I’ve learned I have to avoid browsing Amazon lightening deals. Too easy to buy without much planning or thought other than “ it’s a great deal”. I liked your tip to set aside money every month for extras or fun things.

[@lm9753]

Try this...if you're tempted to impulse buy (in the store,) put the item in your cart and "have it" a while. You might find you'd really rather put it back by the time you get to check out. Loved all your tips - thank you!

[@NazarasfineCrafts]

These are great suggestions. Being on the same page budget wise with your significant other is also a tremendous help lol. But as far as your last suggestion on reflection, when I go shopping and see an "impulse" item, I will walk around the store with it for a little while and usually I will end up talking myself out of it by the time I need to check out. This way I avoid bringing home unnecessary items.

[@FrugalFitMom]

So true!

[@meganvalek2690]

Favourite tip: automation! I did that a while back, it took a whole lot of thought while I was doing it to make sure I didn't mess anything up, but it has made my life so much simpler. Now I know that whatever money is left in my checking out after the autotransfers on payday is mine to spend on whatever I need/want. It's not usually much, but everything else is taken care of by that point, so that's okay.

[@stellaz2595]

Auto paying bills is so important and it clears your mind for other things. If you auto pay you are never late, and your credit score will soar!

[@kpercy9952]

I was on vacation with friends recently and they all said hold on I need to pay my bills so they sat on their phones transferring money. That's not been a thing in my life for years! It's all on Autopay.

[@Lesh004]

I absolutely love auto pay! I have a separate account for all that. I know what my bills budget is and I just put half that each paycheck in the account. It’s an easy out of sight out of mind situation. Then I just confirm that everything has processed.

[@dianasimplifies]

@@kpercy9952 I’m amazed at how many people do not utilize it!!!

[@nancyhurt7145]

Big Dave Ramsey follower here, so this all rang true. No better feeling than to be debt free and live a minimal life style.

[@tulincreech1524]

Such great tips! What i do is plan out each paycheck down to the dollar. I'll write down what bill gets paid with each check, my grocery bill, and then I'll know what wants I can afford. If i dont do that I will overspend for sure on my wants.

[@mysustainabilityjourney9321]

I have an issue with having a can of diet coke at work. It gives me a break to just go to the shop to buy it and it is so refreshing. I dont need it, but boy does it hit the spot when I have a heavy work load. Great channel.

[@erinnola-raised6543]

The “Ask Why You want”. Golden advice to pause & consider reason for :)

[@leiannalogan4197]

Ok, I printed out my September bank statement and highlighted my "wants' v. "needs". Oh MY!!!! Unbelievable. What an eye opener.

[@2Beldam]

Favorite tip - ignoring the Jones. It’s the one I struggle with the most & really need to implement. I get so depressed & jealous!

[@bre6651]

Ignoring everyone else saved me SOOOOOOOO MUCH MONEY. I basically went "Ghost" for 2 years. I left social media alone and focused on work and losing weight. Once you do that you are less tempted to look, be, buy, do anything that everyone else is so worked up about and then you realize that a lot of the stuff you thought mattered actually doesn't.

[@robino941]

I love all your tips! Automating your savings is probably my favorite tip. Clearing up our brains is important!

[@FrugalFitMom]

It really is!

[@patriciaburr4826]

Automate. Different bank for savings. Priceless gems for me. I have a lot if stuff automated and sure does help. My mom unexpectedly went from rehab into long term care and I now have rent to cover and I was not prepared for it as I had been out of work for 2 months with no income. I have a friend who is really good with money has worked up a budget for me. It's going to be tough but I will do what I have to to keep my home. This video came at the perfect time for me to help me get started on automating what I can that I haven't done already like the savings.

[@ElderandOakFarm]

That first tip is so true! Growing up I HATED that my mom never bought me name brand clothes or that I didnt have the latest "__?__" but when I got older I learned that all those friends that had parents buying them all those things, going on extravagant vacations twice a year, etc. were DEEPLY in debt! My mom & stepdad not only has zero debt, but they already had their home paid off by the time they were 40.

[@dianejones8606]

I wish I had made wise money decisions like you and Dave have. What a gift that you were both on the same page at such a young age. Your kids are going to benefit, and be blessed, by your wisdom and example. 👏👏👏 Christine....I LOVE your hair this way! So flattering!!

[@jdrancho1864]

There is another side to the coin at 5. While it helps to automate your payments, especially if you keep getting hit with late payment penalties, you have to make sure to keep your eye on it. If you are like me, an 'out of sight, out of mind' attitude makes it easy to lose sight of your money. I learned that to my detriment.

[@samiderossi7060]

the “what do men do?” took me out 😅 but yes golf is very accurate!

[@thebadgerette69]

Got no credit we don't care, can't pay your bills, you bet we care! 😆

[@corinnestauffiger5693]

First thing when I moved in with my husband (then boyfried): we made a budget, set up different bank accounts and automated payments. Also ajust your budget from time to time, review the spendings. Great help if it comes to life changes as becoming parents, changing job or buying a house. My cookies are craft supplies: my hobby room is full and still I would like to buy more… but I got better a lot. Do not allow myself to buy more until I used at least some of the stuff I already have.

[@leiannalogan4197]

Love the comment about dollars, called "doll hairs". I've said that my whole life!!! Great video, I'm going to apply some of these tips.

[@suzy1676]

Your quote about anything but not everything is SO freeing! It helps me to feel a sense of control over my life 🙃

[@gballmaier]

After watching 1 of your videos, I went straight to Dollar Tree and bought some pachanko bread crumbs? And breaded some pork cutlets MAAAAANNNN, IT WAS SO TASTY. My wife and son, loved it! Thank you.

[@snemetz6008]

Great video! Great reminders for those of us that have been doing these same things for years. I have also had some kind of side hustle to use toward vacations or kids youth trips etc. I set a goal and work on that side hustle. It keeps me on my toes and keeps me personally more focused. I currently work for myself and if I want to make more $. I look at what do I need to change up to make this happen. Since I left my full-time teaching position I haven’t looked back and hope I can continue to keep working on paying off our house. We are not rich by no means but work hard to live within our means and live on only one of our income to meet our financial goals. Work hard and play hard is our family motto! We all chip in to reach the family goals. If anything I hope my teenagers leave the house going ok I know what to do and can make it happen.

[@trishbeckett1859]

On my personal debt financial journey. Getting ready to retire. I have a new spreadsheet to keep track of my money. Very enlightening. Teaching to all my friends and family so they learn this important lesson. Now I know where my money is going.

[@karenrochester8516]

Love your videos. Thank you for caring about all of us out here. 💞

[@donnahoitt7117]

Just being practical when making purchases has saved me from impulse buying and over spending.

[@ChiTownLove24]

Staying away from tempting places is exactly the reason why I utilize pickup options wherever I can. Target? Drive up is my favorite. If I go inside I WILL see (more than 1) something I don’t need that will somehow end up in my cart. Same with groceries. I make a list but without fail every time I physically go into the store I spend way more than what I budgeted. It’s SO much easier to just down a list and add the things I need to the cart with very little temptation to add things I don’t need. PLUS I can place the order and pick it up in my PJs because I don’t have to physically go inside 😅

[@venusgal2706]

It is chips for me. I keep chips out of my home. Actually I keep most snacks like chips or sweets out of my home but chips are the major downfall. Shoes and coats/jackets, I was a ditto on that one. That was years ago--I now am past that temptation... Plus I'm not as young, fit and cute as I was to want a cute coat or shoes lol. Great video. I employ most all of these practices already but have no $$. I need to figure out something to have incoming $$. You can't spend what you don't have so right now I don't have much temptation. It does get old going without all of the time. Going without is hard if done for a long time. You did the items like a bike pump, etc. but I'd also suggest just finding some small treats of some kind that make you feel like you indulged a little or get some small reward for trying so hard to pay off bills or to budget strictly. It could be a McDonald's cheap ice cream sundae once a month. It could be one issue of an indulgent celebrity gossip magazine. Or maybe pizza delivery once a month using the best deal and coupons you can find. For me a crossword book is a treat and gives me hours upon hours of pleasure. Despite online games and books, etc., I still like a physical book. Let yourself do just ONE pay per view movie a month for the family maybe or yourself and spouse if no children.

[@mdoe37]

I run two separate checking accounts. One gets a deposit equal to the "bills". If you are paid weekly, figure out how much a weeks worth of utilities, taxes, insurance, car payment, mortgage etc. equals. Those bills when they come due are covered there. The second is the everyday money for gas, groceries, etc. Two savings accounts....long term and emergency....which you can also fund the same way. That way you never accidentally dip into the money for a bill that hasn't come up yet. If the account is funded correctly, you can then just have them auto debit straight from the account.

[@LauraN-do2of]

So true! My parents and sibling go to expensive restaurants very regularly. Fortunately we live in a rural area now and aren’t so tempted. We go out to eat almost never. Especially compared to many others we know. Food is one budget area that can be the hardest to get under control. We’ve been able to halve our grocery budget and we work hard using your tips to keep it low but also eat good meals at home. I’ve even trained my husband to shop from the freezer and pantry first and figure out meals with what we have in the house. Lots of good tips!

[@lorir3099]

I wish you had been in my daily life for the last 35 years! Great ideas and advice, now I need to hit the save button to watch again and again.

[@julieseifert8533]

I use Mint to track my spending, and made budgets for different categories. I review it often to see if I am track. I’m used to spending whatever I want when I want, but as I got older priorities change. I am still identifying my trigger buys, but I’m also trying to save up for the things I want. Definitely a mind set change.

[@growingmyveggies]

Hi I recently discover your channel and the word "frugal" I love and hate some of your tips but lest be real this are great tips. I learned that the more you accept that everybody its in a different place in life and you are OK with that you live happy, save money and concentrate in your own journey. You have inspired me to open my own channel, not sure what would be about yet but I am headding there. Thank you for being HONEST and not sugarcoatting it.

[@domkmi1259]

You can have anything you can't have everything man thats some deep thought provoking statement.

[@emilykg]

Here in Europe, vacations are a "need." This is a generalization, but we buy used toys and other used items, we don't seem to spend a lot on cars or really anything else. But vacations and enjoying living (like a cappuccino with a friend) are really an important part of life. So less money on stuff and more proprietor on experiences.

[@AndrewHaverson]

A few verses that go along with this topic: Dishonest money dwindles away, but whoever gathers money little by little makes it grow. Proverbs 13:11 The wicked borrow and do not repay, but the righteous give generously. Psalm 37:21 The rich rule over the poor, and the borrower is slave to the lender. Proverbs 22:7

[@daniellewirth7191]

The only thing I avoid doing is setting up autopay on things that could fluctuate greatly. Cell phone is always the same but electricity, gas, water? That can change drastically. I am in Texas and a lot of my neighbors had a $1500 bill autopay out of their account during the freeze we had this year. Be cautious and always always check the actual bill.

[@jeanellis9575]

I love it….My husband said he need new tshirts and I need 2 more cookie sheets before Christmas cookie baking. Both won’t break us but will make us feel better……

[@christerrell802]

Keeping up with the Joneses was hard for me for a long time. But when I changed my mindset and realized that our friends and neighbors may be in debt to have their nice things, it became much easier to be happy with what we had. We have no credit card debt and I drove the same car for 16 years which made us feel secure financially. That feeling made it easy to be happy with what we have. However, I still spend foolish money at Dollar Tree and thrift shops!

[@charlenecalvin9066]

Thank you for sharing. Simply asking why I want something makes very good sense. This is my new goal

[@aimeeclark228]

Your first tip, is the very best! Best thing weve done in our family, was to ONLY use our credit card, for important, or emergency purchases, we buget out money for the week, and thats it! We also PLAN a treat night out for dinner, which is once per month! We have saved a ton, using these tips!..🙏👍🤗

[@aliciasolis9970]

I have a awesome husband that doesn't like leftovers but hes getting there and eating it for lunch. Were saving so much money me making breakfast,lunch and dinner. He does not like premade meals. Lol I tried it!His co worker envy his hot breakfast! No gas station breakfast. Family of four!! Yes a list of what to make before hand is necessity for my self mom at home , two children with Autism and also me as a cardiac patient and also a diabetic. I'm really on the go.my husband as well as he has three job! And accomplishing debt free vida!

[@dianasimplifies]

I was literally standing behind a woman at dollar tree who said out loud she went in there for one thing. Her total was $50!!!! I had to stand there while all that crap got bagged up. I think I had $5 worth! DO NOT GO IN DT AND SPEND $50 when you went in for one thing!!!! Crazy!!!! Great tips Christine. I drive very old vehicles. I am not in style. Sometimes I look around at the church parking lot and think ya know I do not fit in here. But guess what? Our house has been paid off for years, I have not personally had a car payment since the year 2000 and it’s ok that everyone else has a newer car. Cars are not my priority. Debt free is my priority! Live like no one else!

[@cherie4freedom794]

C is for COOKIE! MY biggest weakness as well!!! Thanks

[@amy2284]

I love your list and particularly asking in self reflection why we want to buy something. I have heard a youtuber once say something similar yet a little different (slice of light) she said that ask yourself to reflect the decision on the financial or personal most important goals that give your life the meaning you crave and ask deep questions like am I escaping or is it a status purchase, etc…

[@craigclarkin5462]

For once nor in tears after listening to someone discuss financial check list reviews 😌. Thanks...love your channel, Craig's wife.