coins in a jar

What is the Difference Between Frugal and Thrifty?

TLDR; Both frugal and thrifty people want to save money, but they do it in different ways. Frugal people look for the best deal, while thrifty people try to make the most of what they already have. Introduction When it comes to managing our finances, we often hear the terms “frugal” and “thrifty” thrown around. On the surface, they may seem synonymous, but there is a subtle distinction between the two that can make all the difference in our spending habits....

April 30, 2023 · 7 min
student holding a sheet of paper and looking at laptop

Solutions for Financial Problems Students Can't Afford to Miss

Introduction Are you a student feeling the pinch of financial pressure? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. In this article, we’ll delve into the various financial issues students face and offer practical solutions to help you navigate through these monetary challenges. Understanding the Financial Struggles of Students The Rising Cost of Education Over the past few decades, tuition fees, textbooks, and living expenses have seen a significant increase, making higher education more expensive than ever....

March 19, 2023 · 8 min
diamond ring in a green box

How to Buy an Engagement Ring on a Budget

Hey there! As a failing personal finance blog writer and an aspiring husband, I know that buying an engagement ring can be an exciting, yet expensive, purchase. In this post, we’ll be discussing how to buy an engagement ring on a budget. It’s important to consider budget when shopping for a ring because engagements and weddings can be a significant financial burden. The cost of the ring is just one aspect of the overall expense, which also includes wedding planning, venue, and more....

February 25, 2023 · 10 min
man looking at wall full of papers

Financial Planning Process

TLDR New budget every month, every dollar has a destination Stay out of consumer debt Reasonable mortgage or rent (< 25% of your take home pay) Pay off any consumer debt Put 15% in your income into retirement account (invest in index mutual fund) Have a 6 month emergency fund Pay off credit card balance when you receive the statement Stay away from cash value/whole life/univeral life insurance Only buy used cars...

February 17, 2023 · 20 min
brown flywheel standing in font of a white brickwall

How Can You Apply Flywheel Thinking to Your Company's Budget?

Introduction Budgeting is a critical process for any company, as it helps determine the allocation of resources, track expenses, and ultimately achieve financial goals. The process of budgeting can often be overwhelming and complex, with many competing priorities and constraints to consider. However, by applying a strategic and focused approach to budgeting, companies can achieve better results and create a sustainable path towards success. One such approach is flywheel thinking, a popular and powerful business strategy that emphasizes the use of small, deliberate and consistent actions to drive sustainable change....

January 31, 2023 · 7 min
Man in a blue shirt sitting in front of a table on which are 3 stacks of gold colored coins

How Does a Budget Differ When You Have an Irregular Income vs a Predictable Income?

Welcome to the wild waltz of wallet management, where the beat is set by your bank balance and the tempo can be as unpredictable as a summer storm. If you’ve ever tried to shimmy through life on an irregular income, you know it’s like dancing to a tune that changes tempo without warning. On the flip side, a predictable income is like grooving to a steady beat—sure, it might get monotonous, but at least you know the next steps....

January 18, 2023 · 10 min
E-tablet placed flat on a table displaying an image containing budgeting information on a financial sheet

What Is the Number One Rule of Budgeting?

Ever felt like your wallet is a leaking faucet, and no matter how hard you try, your cash flow just drips away into the void? Well, buckle up, money mavens and budgeting beginners alike, because we’re about to drop some serious knowledge on you. Budgeting isn’t just about pinching pennies or living like a hermit; it’s about wielding the power of financial discipline like a boss. The #1 rule of budgeting isn’t some arcane secret or Wall Street jargon—it’s actually pretty straight-up....

September 5, 2022 · 13 min
Iphone held in left hand with calculator app opened

The Benefits and Drawbacks of Using a Zero Based Budget for Managing Your Personal Finances

Welcome to the financial dojo, where we’re about to chop through the clutter of personal finance management with the sharp blade of zero-based budgeting. Imagine giving every single one of your hard-earned dollars a mission before the month even kicks off. That’s right, we’re talking about a budgeting technique that’s as meticulous as it is empowering, where not a single cent lounges around without a purpose. Zero-based budgeting isn’t just another financial fad—it’s a strategic method that’s been turning heads and opening wallets (in a good way)....

June 24, 2022 · 10 min