Sometimes it’s difficult to save money. You lose motivation, an emergency comes up, or you just have large monthly bills that impact your monthly budget. This is something I continue to struggle with daily.
I am currently working my way through my personal goals, including my savings challenge and using cash envelopes. This is a much stricter budget and system than I have previously employed however I am determined to see it through. I have set up multiple automatic withdrawals to increase my savings and tightened up several expense areas.
Cognitively, I know this will be challenging. Despite having this knowledge, I still struggle with motivation to follow through with the plan. This week I was faced with multiple bills coming out of the same check and resulting in a very small amount in my checking account for the following two weeks.
 

So how do you fight low motivation?

• I remind myself of my larger goals.
• I remind myself I can endure anything for a short period of time.
• I remind myself I have chosen this path for a purpose.
• I remember the financial struggles of my childhood.
• I remind myself that I only want, not need.
• I remind myself that my future is bright.
• I remind myself that not following the plan only hurts me.
• I remind myself I am new to this plan and will need to adjust.
• I remind myself to continue to read and grow my skill set.
• I remind myself that I am strong.

 
Along with these personal mantras, I reference a variety of articles and websites to educate myself about finances, tips, tricks, and other things (recipes, how-to’s, etc.). I talk to my husband about my concerns and frustrations. I take time to reflect and check in with myself. I continue to read success stories about other frugal folks and remind myself of the end goal.
How do you fight low motivation with saving?