What to Do When Your Financial Journey Feels Hard

A road sign that says “Big Journeys Begin with Small Steps,” symbolizing financial progress through reflection and small, consistent actions.

It is normal to wonder what to do when your financial journey feels hard. My family has been intentionally managing our finances for many years.  I know firsthand that there are seasons when it feels overwhelming. Financial growth happens step by step and what feels difficult now will one day become second nature. Then a […]

Holiday Financial Planning: Finish the Year Strong

A woman sitting beside a Christmas tree looking stressed about holiday spending, illustrating the need for holiday financial planning to finish the year strong.

The last three months of the year can make or break your financial progress. Fall Break trips, Halloween, Thanksgiving travel, and then Christmas, Hanukkah, or other traditions your family celebrates. The calendar fills up fast and so does the spending. On top of that come birthdays, school activities, family gatherings, and all the little extras […]

What’s Really Behind Overspending (It’s Not What You Think)

Red stress block disrupting a row of arrows, symbolizing how stress interferes with financial progress.

If you’ve ever looked at your spending and thought, “What is wrong with me?” you’re not alone. So many people beat themselves up for overspending, assuming it’s just a discipline problem.They believe if they could just try harder, stay consistent, or want it badly enough, they’d figure it out. But overspending isn’t always about willpower. […]

What Happens When You Keep Avoiding Your Finances

Woman looking shocked with hands up, paired with the phrase “Avoiding it feels easier until it isn’t,” representing the emotional impact of avoiding finances

There’s a reason so many people avoid their finances, especially during seasons when life feels busy or you just want to relax and enjoy yourself. Knowing is stressful.But not knowing is stressful too. You might think avoiding your finances will bring short term relief, but the weight doesn’t go away.It just gets heavier over time. […]

Why Your Budget Isn’t Working (and What to Do Instead)

Frustrated woman covering her face with hands, representing stress from budgeting struggles, with text overlay "It’s not you, it’s the process" – Smart Money Financial Coaching

You’re earning good money. You’ve tried to be responsible with it. Maybe you’ve even put time and energy into creating a budget (or three).You’ve got spreadsheets. You’ve tried all the apps. You’ve tracked expenses, downloaded templates, maybe even read some books. Or maybe you feel completely overwhelmed and don’t know where to start. So why […]

How to Prepare for Back to School Expenses Without the Stress

School is back in session written on chalkboard with globe, apple, and pencils — Smart Money Financial Coaching

Whether school has already started or you’re still gearing up, one thing is clear: back-to-school expenses add up quickly. From supplies and clothing to tech fees and club registrations, August and September often come with financial surprises that can throw off your entire budget. If you’ve already felt the hit this year, you’re not alone. […]