Chic Money Life

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  • 10 Practical Spending Rules I Actually Follow

    10 Practical Spending Rules I Actually Follow

    Simple habits that help me shop smarter and save more (without feeling deprived)

    My natural spending tendencies used to swing wildly between two extremes—overdoing it and depriving myself of everything. It never felt good to feel guilty for spending too much money, and it never felt good to feel so deprived of small, simple pleasures. I wanted balance.

    So, I created a set of personal rules—guidelines that would give me back control over my spending and my finances. I wanted to be mindful of waste and unnecessary purchases, while still allowing space to enjoy life. These small, practical habits help me spend more intentionally and feel better about where my money goes.

    These are my real-life spending rules. They’re not rigid or extreme—just small ways I avoid waste, reduce impulse spending, and stay more in control.

    1. If it doesn’t fit, it doesn’t come home.

    I’m petite and have always had a hard time finding clothes that fit. In my younger days, I’d say, “Oh this is good enough,” and buy things that really weren’t flattering. No surprise—those pieces ended up buried at the bottom of my closet.
    Now, I only buy clothes that fit me well and make me feel good right now. I’ve found that I shop less often because I actually love what’s in my wardrobe.

    2. I wait before buying something new.

    If I’m tempted to buy something non-essential—especially things I didn’t even know existed until five minutes ago—I give myself at least a week to think it over.
    This helps me ask: Is this just really good marketing? Was it a mood thing? Or will it truly add value to my life?
    Most of the time, I don’t even think about it again.

    3. I don’t overbuy—even when it seems like a “better deal.”

    This mostly applies to food. I hate wasting food. I used to buy in bulk thinking I was saving money, but when I didn’t use it all, it cost me more in the long run.
    Now I focus on buying the right amount. It helps me stay organized, reduces food waste, and keeps me from spending on things I won’t actually consume.

    4. I only buy clothes on sale.

    With a little patience, most things I like go on sale eventually. I rarely buy anything full-price unless it’s essential and timeless. This simple rule has saved me a lot over the years.

    5. I search before I buy.

    Before checking out online, I take a minute to search Google or check for promo codes. It’s a quick step that’s helped me save money many times—like the $100 I saved on my Garmin watch!
    A few clicks can go a long way.

    6. I don’t buy “just in case” items anymore.

    I used to buy things I might need someday. But most of the time, I didn’t—and those purchases just became clutter. Now, I trust that if I really need something, I’ll handle it when the time comes.

    7. I budget for joy.

    Fun spending is part of a healthy financial life. I make sure there’s room in my budget for small joys—coffee with a friend, a weekend adventure, or a cozy new sweatshirt.
    When it’s planned, it feels better—and guilt-free.

    8. I spend based on my real life, not my fantasy life.

    I’ve stopped buying for the version of me that “might host more dinner parties” or “might start going to yoga five times a week.”
    Now, I spend based on how I actually live—not how I wish I lived.

    9. I keep a capsule wardrobe.

    I’ve created a small collection of clothes that mix and match easily, fit well, and work for my real lifestyle.
    A capsule wardrobe saves me time, prevents decision fatigue, and helps me avoid trendy purchases that I’ll never wear.

    10. I stay organized so I can see what I already have.

    Whether it’s food or clothes, staying neat helps me avoid buying duplicates or wasting what I already own.
    If I can’t see it, I’ll forget I have it. So I try to keep my pantry and closet simple and easy to navigate—it saves me money and stress.

    Final Thoughts

    Smart spending doesn’t have to be complicated. These simple habits help me save money, reduce waste, and feel more content with what I have. The best part? None of them require a spreadsheet or a sacrifice—just a little pause and purpose.

    What spending rule has helped you the most? I’d love to hear it in the comments.

  • How Compound Interest Can Work for You (or Against You)

    How Compound Interest Can Work for You (or Against You)

    Compound interest is often called the eighth wonder of the world—and for good reason. It has the power to grow your money over time without any extra work from you. But if you’re not careful, it can also grow your debt just as fast.

    Understanding how compound interest works can help you build wealth, stay out of debt traps, and feel confident making long-term financial decisions. It’s one of the most important tools you have on your financial journey.

    What Is Compound Interest?

    Compound interest means you earn interest on both your original savings and on the interest that’s been added over time.

    • Simple interest = interest only on the original amount
    • Compound interest = interest on the original amount plus accumulated interest

    In short, your money makes money—and then that money makes more money. The earlier you start, the more time your money has to grow.

    And the best part? You don’t have to do anything extra. Your money literally starts working for you.

    How Compound Interest Can Impact Saving Just $100 a Month

    Let’s say you invest $100 a month starting at age 25 in an account that earns 7% annual interest, compounded monthly. Here’s what that could grow into:

    • Age 35: ~$17,000 – You saved $12,000 and earned $5,000 in interest
    • Age 45: ~$51,000 – You saved $24,000 and earned $27,000 in interest
    • Age 55: ~$116,000 – You saved $36,000 and earned $80,000 in interest
    • Age 65: ~$240,000 – You saved $48,000 and earned $192,000 in interest

    All from just $100 a month!

    Now imagine you waited 10 years and started saving at 35 instead of 25—you’d only have around $120,000 by age 65. That’s half as much, just from starting later.

    The earlier you start, the more time compound interest has to work its magic. At a certain point, your interest earns more than you contribute—that’s the beauty of it. All you have to do is consistently set money aside and let compounding do the rest.

    When Compound Interest Works Against You

    Credit card debt is the dark side of compound interest. Many cards charge 20%+ interest and compound it daily. That means if you carry a balance, you’re paying interest on interest, which makes it much harder to get ahead.

    Example:
    A $5,000 credit card balance at 22% interest—if you only make minimum payments—could take over 15 years to pay off and cost you thousands in interest.

    YIKES!
    This is why credit card debt should be treated like a financial emergency. Go into bare-bones budget mode until it’s paid off. It’s nearly impossible to make progress if you’re being charged 22% interest. That’s higher than almost any investment return you could find. Paying off high-interest debt is often the best financial return—even if it doesn’t feel exciting.

    How to Use Compound Interest to Your Advantage

    Start Now—Even If It’s Small
    Don’t wait for the “perfect time.” Small amounts invested consistently add up. The best time to start was 20 years ago; the second-best time is today.

    Automate Your Savings or Investments
    Set up automatic transfers into a high-yield savings account, Roth IRA, or investment account so you don’t have to think about it.

    Avoid Carrying High-Interest Debt
    If you’re paying compound interest on debt, your money is working against you. Focus on paying that off first.

    Reinvest Your Earnings
    In investments like ETFs or retirement accounts, let your dividends or interest reinvest. That’s how compounding keeps building over time.

    Final Thoughts

    Compound interest is one of the most powerful tools in your financial toolkit. It rewards patience, consistency, and time. Whether you’re building savings or getting out of debt, understanding how compound interest works will help you make more intentional and impactful money decisions.

    Start where you are—and your future self will thank you.

  • How I Tie My Spending to My Values

    How I Tie My Spending to My Values

    Because every dollar has a purpose

    Have you ever stopped to ask why you spend money the way you do?

    For a long time, I didn’t. I’d get a tempting marketing email, see a sale, or feel the urge to “treat myself” and just go for it—without really thinking it through. But over time, I realized my spending habits weren’t always aligned with what actually matters most to me.

    The opposite is true too—when I do want to spend, understanding my values helps me feel confident in those decisions. For example, spending a lot on a meaningful family experience? That’s exactly what I value, and if it’s within our means, I feel good about it.

    Money can be a tricky thing. You might feel guilty when you spend, or discouraged when you’re too strict. That’s why balance—and having a strong financial foundation—makes all the difference.

    Step 1: Identifying My Core Values

    At first, it was hard to name my values. But after sitting with the question a bit, some clear themes surfaced:

    • I love learning
    • I value having fun
    • I cherish quality time with my family
    • I care deeply about staying healthy

    Once I named these, they became a compass for my financial decisions. When I’m tempted to buy something, I try to pause and ask:

    Does this support one of my core values?

    Take clothing, for example. I love fashion and can definitely get pulled in by a cute new piece or a good sale. But if I already have what I need, I ask myself:

    • Does this help me learn something?
    • Will it bring real joy or just a temporary thrill?
    • Will it make our family life more meaningful?
    • Is it supporting my health?

    Most of the time, the answer is no. And that quick pause is usually all I need to hit delete instead of checkout.

    Step 2: Knowing My Spending Triggers

    Understanding my values helps—but knowing my spending triggers is just as important.

    Here are a few of mine:

    • Marketing emails (especially from favorite brands)
    • Grocery shopping while hungry
    • Changing seasons (something about a new season makes me crave a wardrobe refresh or home décor update)
    • Feeling down — I sometimes turn to shopping as a pick-me-up

    Recognizing these patterns helps me stay grounded. When I notice I’m vulnerable to one of these triggers, I try to redirect my energy. A walk, a podcast, or even just taking a moment to acknowledge why I feel the urge can help me move on without spending.

    What This Means for You

    You don’t need to be perfect. I’m certainly not. But connecting your spending to your values—and understanding your emotional triggers—can lead to more intentional choices and less buyer’s remorse.

    So, what do you value? And what tends to tempt you off track? Start there.
    Your money will follow your intentions.

    Leave a comment

  • Smart Hacks to Cut Food Waste and Save Money

    Smart Hacks to Cut Food Waste and Save Money

    Simple hacks to save money and reduce food waste

    One of the biggest monthly expenses for most households is food. And while eating well is always worth investing in, there’s nothing more frustrating than throwing away wilted greens or moldy berries that were forgotten in the back of the fridge.

    So, what better way to start your money-saving journey than by making the most of what you already have? This guide will show you how to stretch your grocery budget, reduce food waste, and make your food last longer—all with simple habits you can start today.

    Storage Hacks to Prevent Spoilage

    1. Know Your Produce Zones

    Different foods thrive in different environments. Store them where they’ll last the longest:

    • Fridge: Berries, leafy greens, broccoli, carrots, grapes, apples
    • Counter (then fridge): Avocados, bananas, tomatoes, peaches (ripen on the counter, then refrigerate)
    • Pantry: Onions, garlic, potatoes (keep these separate—storing them together speeds up spoilage)

    Pro tip 1: Use separate drawers for fruits and veggies. Fruits like apples release ethylene gas, which can cause veggies to spoil faster.

    Pro tip 2: Once avocados are ripe, put them in water and store them in the fridge, this will help them last weeks!

    2. Store Greens Properly

    • Wrap lettuce, spinach, or herbs in a paper towel and store in a zip-top bag or produce container to absorb moisture and keep them crisp.
    • Wilted greens? Soak them in cold water for 15–20 minutes to bring them back to life.

    3. Give Berries a Vinegar Bath

    • Mix 1 part vinegar to 3 parts water, rinse, then dry thoroughly before storing.
    • This quick trick helps kill mold spores and can extend freshness by up to a week.

    4. Freeze Extras Before They Go Bad

    • Freeze bread, meats, shredded cheese, and cooked beans while they’re still fresh.
    • Chop and freeze onions, peppers, spinach, or bananas for easy smoothies or stir-fries later.

    5. Use Airtight Containers

    • Store dry goods like cereal, rice, pasta, and flour in airtight containers to keep out moisture and bugs.
    • Label with expiration dates if you tend to forget what’s in the back of the cabinet.

    Smart Usage Tips to Avoid Waste

    6. Plan Meals Around Perishables First

    • Use fragile items like berries, spinach, or cucumbers early in the week.
    • Save longer-lasting produce—think carrots, cabbage, apples, sweet potatoes—for later.

    7. Create a “Leftovers Shelf”

    Designate one shelf or container in your fridge just for opened sauces, half-used produce, or cooked grains so nothing gets forgotten and tossed.

    8. Keep an “Eat Me First” List

    Jot down foods that need to be used soon and stick it on your fridge. Build meals around what you already have before adding more to the grocery list.

    9. Repurpose Instead of Tossing

    • Wilted greens → sauté into eggs, soups, or pasta
    • Leftover veggies → blend into sauces or add to grain bowls
    • Overripe fruit → freeze for smoothies or bake into muffins

    Buying Tips to Save Long-Term

    10. Buy Frozen When It Makes Sense

    Frozen fruits and veggies are budget-friendly, last longer, and are just as nutritious. They’re perfect for smoothies, soups, and last-minute meals.

    11. Don’t Overbuy Fresh Produce

    It’s tempting to load up when the produce section looks good, but only buy what you can use in 4–5 days. Supplement with freezer and pantry staples later in the week.

    12. Batch Cook + Freeze Meals

    Make double batches of soups, stews, or casseroles and freeze individual portions. This reduces midweek cooking stress and makes sure nothing gets lost in the fridge.

    Bonus Tools That Make a Difference

    • Produce savers with vents (like OXO GreenSaver) can significantly extend freshness
    • Silicone freezer bags or glass jars make freezing easier and eco-friendly
    • Chalkboard labels or a small whiteboard on your fridge help track expiration dates and plan meals quickly

    Big Picture Reminders

    • Shop your pantry and freezer before heading to the store
    • Create a flexible meal plan that lets you swap ingredients based on what’s about to go bad
    • A little prep now = fewer forgotten items, more money saved, and less guilt over food waste

    Comment below what hacks you have been using to help your groceries last longer!

    Leave a comment

  • Post 5: How to Build a Budget You’ll Actually Stick To

    Post 5: How to Build a Budget You’ll Actually Stick To

    Part of the “How to Get Started Managing Your Personal Finances” Series

    Why It Matters

    A budget isn’t a punishment—it’s a plan. It helps you make sure your money goes toward the things that matter most. Whether you want to stop living paycheck to paycheck, save for a big goal, or simply feel more in control, a budget is the foundation for intentional living. But for it to work, it has to fit your life and support your goals.

    Step 1: Know What’s Coming In

    Start by figuring out your monthly income.

    • Include all reliable sources: paychecks, side gigs, support payments, etc.
    • If your income fluctuates, use a three-month average to get a clearer picture.

    Step 2: Track What’s Going Out

    Look at what you actually spend in a typical month.

    • Use your bank or credit card statements to identify patterns
    • Categories to consider: housing, groceries, dining out, subscriptions, childcare, transportation, etc.
    • This ties back to what you did in Post 2—understanding your spending

    Step 3: Build the First Draft of Your Budget

    Break it down into categories:

    • Fixed Expenses (rent, utilities, insurance)
    • Debt Repayment
    • Variable Expenses (groceries, gas, entertainment)
    • Savings
    • Unexpected Expenses (car repairs, gifts, etc.)

    Tip: If possible, include a “life happens” cushion to give your budget some breathing room.

    Step 4: Choose a System That Works for You

    Your budget won’t help if you don’t use it. Choose a format that feels easy to maintain.

    • Apps like YNAB, EveryDollar, or Mint
    • Spreadsheets (Google Sheets, Excel)
    • Pen and paper
      There’s no one right way—just the one you’ll actually stick with.

    Step 5: Make It Sustainable

    • Start simple—don’t try to perfect it all at once
    • Review weekly or monthly and make adjustments as needed
    • This step is key: If you set a budget but never track or update it, you may be missing your goals entirely
    • Give yourself grace—overspending one month isn’t failure, it’s feedback

    Closing Thought

    A budget is your roadmap. It’s not about perfection—it’s about progress and intention. When you build a budget that reflects your real life, it becomes a tool for freedom—not frustration.

  • How to Tackle Credit Card Debt

    How to Tackle Credit Card Debt

    Related to Post 3 in the “How to Get Started Managing Your Personal Finances” Series

    Why It Matters

    Credit card debt can feel overwhelming—like you’re stuck in a cycle you can’t escape. The high interest rates, minimum payments, and constant stress can make it hard to breathe, let alone plan for the future. Credit card debt is its own monster. The interest rates they charge if you do not pay the full balance are predatory.

    But you are not powerless. No matter how big the number, you can take control of your debt. The goal isn’t just to pay it off—it’s to regain peace of mind and create a life with more freedom and fewer financial emergencies.

    Let’s walk through the steps.

    Step 1: Stop Adding to the Debt

    If you’re serious about getting out of debt, the first step is to stop using your credit cards.

    • Remove them from your wallet
    • Delete them from Apple Pay
    • Unsubscribe from shopping emails that tempt you to spend

    Set yourself up to succeed by removing the daily triggers.

    Step 2: Get Clear on the Numbers

    Make a list of:

    • Each credit card you have
    • The current balance
    • The interest rate
    • The minimum monthly payment

    Yes, it might feel scary. But seeing the full picture gives you the power to make a plan.

    Step 3: Create a Bare-Bones Budget

    This doesn’t have to be forever—but for now, cut your spending down to the essentials:

    • Housing
    • Groceries
    • Transportation
    • Utilities

    The goal is to free up as much money as possible to start attacking your debt.

    Step 4: Pick a Payoff Strategy

    There are two popular strategies:

    1. Debt Avalanche:
    Focus on the card with the highest interest rate first. You’ll pay less in interest over time.

    2. Debt Snowball:
    Pay off the smallest balance first. This gives you early wins and motivation to keep going.

    Neither is “better”—just pick the one that works best for your mindset.

    Step 5: Ask for Help (Really)

    Call your credit card companies and ask:

    • Can you lower my interest rate?
    • Do you offer a hardship program?
    • Can you waive late fees?

    You might be surprised—many companies are willing to work with you if you’re honest and proactive.

    Step 6: Consider a Balance Transfer or Debt Consolidation

    If you have decent credit, a 0% APR balance transfer card could give you time to pay down your debt without interest.
    Or look into a debt consolidation loan to combine all your credit card balances into one monthly payment at a lower rate.

    But be cautious: these only work if you’re committed to paying them off before the promotional period ends!

    Step 7: Increase Your Income (Even Temporarily)

    Even an extra $100 a month can make a difference. Consider:

    • Freelance or gig work like pet sitting, babysitting, or Instacart
    • Selling unused items around the house
    • Asking for extra hours at work

    Every dollar helps build momentum.

    Step 8: Stay Consistent—and Be Kind to Yourself

    Getting out of credit card debt isn’t just a math problem—it’s an emotional journey.
    You might mess up. You might feel discouraged. That’s okay.

    What matters is that you keep going. And don’t forget to reward yourself along the way.
    If you have multiple debts, celebrate each time you knock one off your list! It takes time and dedication, but the faster you address your debt, the better.

    Keep your long-term goals in front of you to stay motivated (remember those goals I asked you to think about in Post 1?)

    You deserve to feel free from the weight of debt.
    This isn’t about being perfect—it’s about progress. And every single payment is a step toward the life you really want.

  • Why I Started Chic Money Life: More Than Just Saving Money

    Why I Started Chic Money Life: More Than Just Saving Money

    When I first started thinking seriously about money, it wasn’t just because I wanted to save more. It was because I wanted more from life—more intention, more health, more time with my family, and yes, more financial freedom too. But what I didn’t want was to give up everything that made life feel full just to hit a savings goal.

    That’s where Chic Money Life began.

    I’m a mom of two, and like many families, we juggle a lot—work, childcare, meals, schedules, and that never-ending mountain of laundry. It’s easy to fall into the trap of “quick and easy,” especially when it comes to spending. For a long time, I thought grabbing takeout or making a few impulse buys was harmless—until I realized I was spending a lot of money on things that didn’t make me happy, weren’t healthy, and didn’t align with the kind of life I actually wanted.

    At the same time, I realized I didn’t want a life of restriction either. I love good food, nice clothes, time in nature, and cozy moments with my kids. I believe in choosing quality over quantity, in spending with purpose, and in making space for joy—not just cutting costs for the sake of it.

    So this blog is my way of sharing that journey—of creating a life that’s not only financially sound but also full of health, joy, and intention. I’ll be sharing what’s worked for me, where I’ve messed up, and what I’m learning along the way. From budgeting and mindful spending to healthy routines and family life, Chic Money Life is a space for real people trying to live well with what they have.

    This isn’t about perfection. It’s about progress.
    And I’m so glad you’re here.