She Strengthens

Summer Spending Got You Down? Here’s How to Get Back on Track

As the warm weather approaches, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of outdoor concerts, lake days, and patio happy hours. But before you know it, your wallet can take a serious hit. Don’t let summer sabotage your financial goals! With a few simple tweaks to your mindset and spending habits, you can enjoy the sunshine while staying on track.

Get Re-Motivated

First things first: refocus your energy on your goals. Whether it’s paying off debt, building savings, or improving your credit score, remind yourself why you’re working towards these objectives in the first place. Need a boost? Try reading inspiring books like “Year of Yes” by Shonda Rhimes, “GIRLBOSS” by Sophia Amoruso, or “You Are a Badass” by Jen Sincero.

Prioritize Your Spending

It’s time to get real about what’s worth splurging on and what’s not. Make conscious decisions about how you allocate your money, and be willing to make trade-offs. You can’t do it all, but you can choose what matters most to you.

Create a Budget (and Stick to It)

No more flying by the seat of your pants! Create a budget that accounts for your needs, goals, and some fun money too. Then, commit to tracking your spending daily to ensure you’re staying within your means. Consider using the envelope system to manage discretionary expenses.

Overhaul Your Travel Plans

Summer travel can be expensive, but there are ways to cut costs without sacrificing fun. Visit friends in other cities to save on accommodations, opt for Airbnb over hotels, and cook some meals instead of eating out. And remember, clearing your browser cache can help you snag cheaper flights!

Find Your Side Hustle

Summer is the perfect time to explore new ways to earn extra cash. Whether it’s freelancing, dog walking, or blogging, find a side hustle that aligns with your passions and skills. Not only will you earn more, but you’ll also stay busy and avoid boredom-induced spending.

Get Your Credit Score in Check

Paying bills on time is crucial for maintaining a healthy credit score. Utilize tools like Prism to stay on top of your payments and avoid late fees. And if you do need to negotiate with customer service reps, know that a simple conversation can lead to significant savings.

Develop Your “No Money” List

Free activities can be just as fun as expensive ones! Take some time to brainstorm low- or no-cost things to do in your city, like hiking, potluck cookouts, or outdoor movie nights. Get creative and have fun without breaking the bank.

Set an End-of-Summer Goal

Short-term goals can be powerful motivators. Set a target for yourself to achieve by Labor Day, whether it’s increasing your savings or finally creating that budget. This will help you stay focused and driven throughout the summer months.

Negotiate Like a Boss

Finally, don’t be afraid to negotiate with service providers or your employer to get what you want. Whether it’s a lower bill or a higher salary, confidence and persistence can lead to significant financial gains.

By implementing these tips, you can enjoy the best of summer while staying on track with your financial goals. So go ahead, grab that jalapeno margarita, and toast to a balanced and satisfying summer!