When you look for ideas on how to manage your money, the advice always begins with creating a budget. Then why do so many people ignore this advice?

Planning for the future is one of the most impactful things you can do for financial security. But only focusing on the future can create its own problems. 

I try to remember that it's easier to be 100% when starting something new. It may seem counterintuitive but it’s true.

The push to buy a shiny new toy can be overwhelming. Waiting for a short period will save you a lot of money.

For most of my life I have had two conflicting goals. I yearn to travel the world with a backpack and faint plan. I also feel the need to build a career, lay down some roots and save money for the future. I had to figure out how to do both.

I underestimate how long something takes to get done. Nothing happens fast.

For over a year I avoided looking at my retirement plan. Even thinking about it makes me uncomfortable. Finally, I called someone I trust to help me look at my long term savings plan. I won’t sugar coat the experience, it was not fun. I listened and set out a plan. Now I am finally taking action. 

78 percent of American full time workers are living from paycheck-to-paycheck. Living that way is really stressful.

I read about all of these successful people who sleep for 4 hours a night, then do more before 8AM than I do during the entire day. These stories do not inspire me. 

We all think that money is what limits us. If only I had $10,000 I then could finally do the things I want to do. But is money the limiting factor? I’m not sure. 

“Will buying this make me happy”? It’s a simple but powerful question. 

Saving for a first house, getting in shape or learning the guitar are the kind of things we all want in our lives.