How to Get on a Consistent Savings Schedule (Without the Stress)

How to Get on a Consistent Savings Schedule (Without the Stress)

11.15.2024 - By: Anastasia Barbuzzi

Saving money sounds great until payday hits, and life, in all its bill-laden glory, gets in the way. In this economy, with rising costs, unexpected expenses, and the struggle to meet everyday needs, building a consistent savings habit can feel almost impossible (especially during the holidays). You might try for a few weeks, only to see your plans fade when you’re juggling other financial demands. And it’s easy to feel defeated, especially if you haven’t quite nailed down a positive relationship with money.

But here’s the truth: a savings routine isn’t about stashing away hundreds of dollars on day one. It’s about smaller, more achievable steps that make sense for where you are now, not where you think you should be (you'll get there— eventually). That’s why we started the Savings Challenge— to help you create a stress-free plan that’s not only easy to stick with but actually works for you.

So, let’s break down how to get on a savings schedule in time for the New Year, because financial glow-ups are best served with a side of consistency.

5 Steps to Getting on a Consistent Savings Schedule (WITHOUT THE STRESS)

1. Find a No-Fee Bank That Doesn’t Take a Cut of Your Cash

Why pay fees just for the privilege of parking your hard-earned dollars? Seek out a no-fee bank account and let every dollar stay right where it belongs—in your account. Less money spent on fees means more money for your goals, without sacrificing a cent. It’s a small step, but the savings add up quickly.

2. Make a High-Interest Savings Account Your New Bestie

Sure, they might not make you rich overnight, but high-interest savings accounts are perfect for passive growth. Even if you start with just $5 or $10, those small bills pile up. And don’t worry about big deposits— start with an amount that works for you and up it when it feels right. It’s all about the slow build. Future you will thank you for it.

3. Create a Budget (Even a Super Simple One)

Before you start disassociating at the sight of the ‘B’ word, know this: you don’t need a spreadsheet masterpiece. Just a simple list of what’s coming in and what’s going out. Highlight the “must-haves,” a few “nice-to-haves,” and any extras. Having a rough idea of where your money is going keeps things in check and gives you a better idea of how much you can save each month without stress.

4. Pay Yourself First— Even If It’s Just $5

Yes, paying yourself first can start with a fiver. Whether it’s $5, $20, or $100, the amount doesn’t matter as much as the habit. Set up an automatic transfer to savings on payday and watch that balance grow (we love an automation!). Then, when you feel ready, increase it. Over time, this simple move can become one of the most empowering parts of your money routine.

5. Focus on Income Boosts, Not Just Budget Cuts

Instead of cutting out every small joy (although it might be necessary to eliminate some unnecessary expenses), shift the focus to bringing in more. Explore side hustles, passive income streams, or even freelance gigs if you’re up for it. Every extra dollar can either ease your day-to-day or go straight into your savings account. The best part? You’re building more income rather than losing what you love.

Consistency Over Perfection

The ultimate goal here? Just stick to the plan. Start small, keep it regular, and remember to cover your basics first. There’s no use in transferring cash to savings only to pull it back out because of unexpected bills (we've all been guilty of it). Once you’ve built the consistency, it’s amazing how quickly your balance can grow.

P.S. Ready to Take It Up a Notch In the New Year?

Check out our Savings Challenge. Let’s make the last few months of the year (and the first few months of 2025) your best yet for savings.

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Thoughts? Questions? Leave ‘em in the comments below.

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