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But here’s the truth: saving doesn’t have to feel like punishment. In fact, when done right, it can feel empowering. I’ve discovered one simple hack that has helped me save consistently, even when life feels overwhelming.
Why Bother Saving?
As moms and career women, we’re constantly balancing today’s needs with tomorrow’s uncertainties. The truth is, none of us can predict the future. Emergencies happen, cars break down, kids get sick, and jobs aren’t always guaranteed.
And here’s the kicker—studies show that money worries are the number one cause of stress. And that stress? It doesn’t just live in our heads. It affects our bodies too, leading to exhaustion, health problems, and sometimes even depression. I know this firsthand.
That’s why saving matters. It’s not just about money—it’s about peace of mind.
The Hack: Pay Yourself First
We pay everyone else—the taxman, the utility companies, the grocery store. But what about us? Don’t we deserve a cut of our own paycheck?
Here’s the saving hack that changed my life: pay yourself first.
Not with what’s “left over” (because let’s be honest, there’s usually nothing left), but right at the start. Treat your savings like a non-negotiable bill.
How I Made It Work
When I first tried this, I was skeptical. “Pay myself? With what extra money?” But I gave it a try, and here’s how I set it up in a way that worked for my anxious, easily-tempted self:
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I opened a “Me Account” at a credit union.
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I didn’t take a bank card, so I couldn’t just swipe or withdraw cash on a whim.
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If I wanted money from this account, I’d have to physically drive there and stand in line (and with two kids, let’s just say… I avoided it).
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Initially, I set up automatic transfers from my primary account. Now that I’m more disciplined, I transfer money online myself.
The key? Make saving harder to undo than spending.
Where I Found “Extra” Money
I thought I had no room in my budget, but when I tracked my spending, I discovered hidden opportunities:
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Skipped eating out: If I cooked instead of grabbing takeout, that money went straight into my Me Account.
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Unexpected income: Any bonus, refund, or side hustle money got transferred immediately.
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Bank fees: I switched to a no-fee account and sent the savings to myself.
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Impulse spending: I stopped carrying excess cash—because when I had it, I spent it.
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Shoes (yes, shoes): I admitted to myself that I don’t need 12 pairs when I only wear 2.
It wasn’t about huge amounts at first—just $10 here, $20 there. But those little choices added up.
Goals Keep You Motivated
Your “Me Account” needs a purpose. Maybe it’s an emergency fund, paying off a credit card, or treating yourself to something guilt-free. My first goal was a car, and seeing my account grow toward that dream gave me the motivation to keep going.
Final Thoughts
Saving isn’t about deprivation—it’s about empowerment. It’s proof to yourself that you can take control, even in small ways. And small is enough to start.
So, if money worries have been keeping you up at night (trust me, I get it), try this one simple shift: pay yourself first. You deserve it.
And remember, as Ayn Rand once said:
"Money is only a tool. It will take you wherever you wish, but it will not replace you as the driver."
So, mama, take the wheel. One deposit at a time.
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