How to save money | Psyche Guides

Consider what you are saving for. If you're not sure what you really want in the long term, you can try a thought experiment:

• Research suggests contemplating death can change your financial priorities. What would the future 'you' tell the current 'you' about what was really important?
• Imagine appearing on a TV show in 15 to 20 years. What would you like to say were your greatest achievements or most meaningful moments?

Describe your answer, draw it, get a clear image of it. When you want to buy something, look at your values and decide if you really want to spend the money.

Find a balance between your immediate needs and your more optional desires so that you can stay happy and motivated while setting aside enough toward your long-term goals.

On the one side, we often think something is essential when it's optional. But it is as common for people to save while neglecting urgent essentials. The key is balance and planning. So remember to set exciting short term goals along the path to your big dreams.

To change your habits, you first need to know your current habits and then decide which ones you should change.

• Think where you are wasting money on habits of behaviour that don't support your goals, such as automatic renewal subscriptions.
• Another habit that prompts spending is feeling depressed or having some spare money.

Replace unhelpful habits with more constructive ones, such as putting money aside on payday. Pick only one or two habits to change at a time.

• A lot of financial advice focuses on knowing about money, interest rates, tax, etc. However, only look at it after deciding what your financial goals are.
• Your money is a tool, so first look at what you want, then see how to use your money to fit you. If you learn about money first, there is a danger that you'll end up as a tool by your money.
• Be mindful of peer pressure. There is always something else to buy that will make you feel special. The list is endless, but your money is limited.