Welcome to September, where we kiss summer goodbye and dive headfirst into that “back-to-reality” vibe. The kids are back in school, work is picking up, and oh yeah, the holiday season is creeping up faster than you think. So, let’s not sugarcoat it—if your wallet had a rough summer, it’s time to whip it back into shape. September is your chance to get ahead of the game, and I’m here to guide you through it with some kick-ass strategies.
Week 1: Fall Spending Plan - Because Pumpkin Spice Lattes Ain’t Free
Let’s kick off September by facing the harsh truth: we’re entering spending season. You’ve got Halloween, Thanksgiving, and the madness of Christmas on the horizon. So before you start splurging on everything that smells like pumpkin spice, let’s get your spending plan in order.
First off, stop calling it a “budget” like it’s some financial prison. We’re grown-ass adults here; we’re calling it a Spending Plan. This isn’t about deprivation—it’s about getting what you want without waking up in January to the hangover of a monstrous credit card bill.
Start by laying it all out: what’s coming in, what’s going out, and where you might be screwing yourself over with mindless spending. This isn’t a time for guessing—get down to the nitty-gritty. Use an app like Monarch or YNAB (You Need A Budget), or hell, grab a notebook and a pen if you’re old school.
Once you’ve got your spending plan figured out, here’s the kicker: stick to it. No more “I deserve this” moments when you’re eyeballing the latest tech gadget or the fifth pair of boots you don’t need. Think of your spending plan as your roadmap to financial freedom—stick to the path, and you’ll thank yourself later.
Week 2: Back-to-School Financial Checkup - The Adult Version
Alright, parents, the kids are back in school, and if you’re not careful, your bank account might need some schooling too. The back-to-school rush can easily throw your finances into chaos—new clothes, supplies, maybe even some extra-curricular activities. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back.
It’s time for your Back-to-School Financial Checkup, aka the “How the hell do we recover from summer spending?” session. Start by reviewing what you spent on the kids this summer and in the back-to-school blitz. Did you blow the budget on last-minute vacations, or were you smart about it? Be honest—this is a no-judgment zone, but we can’t fix what we don’t acknowledge.
Next, look at your upcoming expenses. What’s lurking around the corner? Do the kids need new sports gear? Are there school fees you haven’t accounted for? List it all out and figure out how it fits into your newly minted spending plan.
Here’s the big takeaway: Don’t let the school year blindside you. Stay ahead by planning, adjusting, and cutting where you can. Remember, you’re in control—not your kids, not their schools, not even the PTA. You.
Week 3: Stash That Cash - Smart Savings Strategies
Now that we’ve wrangled your spending into submission, let’s talk about building that bank account. Saving money might sound like a boring, old-school concept, but let me tell you—it’s the sexiest thing you can do for your future. Why? Because it means you’ve got options. You can say yes to the things you want and no to the things you don’t. Freedom, baby.
Start by setting some savings goals. I’m talking SMART goals—Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. No more vague “I wanna save more” bullshit. If you want to save $1,000 for an emergency fund in six months, write that down and make it happen.
Automate your savings like a boss. Set up automatic transfers from your checking account to your savings, so you don’t even have to think about it. Out of sight, out of mind—but your bank account will love you for it.
And while we’re at it, let’s make your savings work harder. If your money is just sitting in a regular old savings account, it’s basically lounging on the couch doing nothing. Move it into a high-yield savings account (HYSA) where it can actually grow. Compare interest rates, avoid fees, and watch your money multiply.
Cut the crap, literally. Go through your monthly expenses and chop anything unnecessary. Cancel those subscriptions you don’t use, stop eating out five times a week, and for the love of God, stop buying overpriced coffee every morning. Save that cash for something that really matters—like your future.
Week 4: Get Your Shit Together - Holiday Spending Planner
Last but definitely not least, let’s talk holidays. I know it feels early, but trust me—if you don’t start planning now, you’ll be drowning in debt before you can say “Happy New Year.”
First things first: set a holiday budget. And no, I don’t mean just for gifts. We’re talking travel, decorations, food, parties, and all those little extras that sneak up on you. Set a limit for each category and stick to it. You don’t need to be the hero who buys the most expensive gifts or throws the biggest party. You just need to be smart.
Make a gift list and assign a spending limit for each person. It’s not about being cheap; it’s about being realistic. Do you really need to buy a gift for every single person in your life? Maybe it’s time to start some new traditions—like a Secret Santa, or DIY gifts that don’t break the bank.
Track your spending like a hawk. Use apps, spreadsheets, or even a good old-fashioned notebook. The goal here is to stay on top of your budget and avoid surprises when the credit card bill arrives. Trust me, future you will thank you.
Finally, keep your eyes peeled for deals and discounts. Shop sales, use coupons, and don’t be afraid to start early. The earlier you start, the more time you have to shop around and find the best prices. And remember, the goal is to enjoy the holidays without sabotaging your financial future.
Final Thoughts:
September is your month to get your financial shit together. We’ve laid out a killer plan that covers everything from your daily spending to your holiday madness. Stick with me, and by the time January rolls around, you’ll be sitting pretty with a fat bank account and zero regrets.
Remember, this isn’t just about surviving the end of the year—it’s about setting yourself up to thrive. Let’s make it happen.
*If this information seems very overwhelming or you would like to start moving you finances into a better direction, set up a free 15 preliminary call, so we can get you going!
Comments