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. […]

Spending with Intention: Aligning Your Finances with Your Values

Man thinking about finances with icons representing budgeting, spending, and values — Spend with intention.

You’re earning a good income. The money is coming in. But somehow, things still feel tight—or worse, out of control. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. The missing piece might be spending with intention—a mindset shift that helps your money reflect your values. Many people feel frustrated, overwhelmed, and unsure why they can’t seem […]

Why “We’ll Figure It Out” Isn’t a Financial Strategy

Woman shrugging with text overlay that says ‘Why hoping it will all works out isn’t a strategy’ — representing the ‘we’ll figure it out’ mentality in personal finance

All too often, people commit to new expenses without knowing if they can truly afford them. They move forward with a “we’ll figure it out” mentality—hoping it will all work out in the end. Another subscription here, a kids’ activity there, a slightly higher car payment—it all seems manageable in the moment. But when there’s […]