this post was submitted on 04 Mar 2025
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Seems like the cards aren't the problem and spending is. Not using cash, you don't actually see the money leaving your wallet/purse. You don't see your cash reserves dwindle. My suggestion is figure out your weekly income and keep a hand written list in a small notebook. Each time you spend deduct the amount. Better yet write down what the expense was. If you don't want to carry a notebook, save all receipts and do it when you get home. At the end of the week take a serious look at what you bought and make a list of frivolous expenses and add them up to see what you could have saved by using a little restraint. Did you really need that $5 cup of coffee? Or that $3.50 soda drink at lunch instead of water? Could you have saved $10 by picking up something at the store instead of having it delivered? Small numbers add up to big numbers when we don't pay attention. Having these things written down in front of us has an impact. Of course some expenses aren't optional but some can be mitigated. Take pride in each little gain, give yourself a pat on the back/endorphin boost each time. Seriously, that helps me accomplish goals. Good luck, I hope you find success