How Do You Make Smart Money Moves Without Sacrificing Your Goals?

I’ve been called cheap my entire life, but I wear it as a badge of honor. For me, money has always been a tool—a way to create opportunities, build security, and work toward my goals. I’ve learned to see through the marketing tactics designed to make us spend impulsively or chase trends that don’t align with what truly matters to us. Instead, I’ve made it a habit to spend with intention, prioritizing things that bring me closer to my long-term goals rather than fleeting desires. Along the way, I’ve also found ways to combine sustainability with smart budgeting, ensuring my choices are not only cost-effective but also kind to the environment.

Here are some money hacks I swear by

1. Maximize Tax Savings

I got a game-changing tip from my tax accountant: open a Health Savings Account (HSA).

Not only can I use it for medical expenses, but I’ve also charged things like yoga classes, massages, and even float therapy to my HSA—all tax-free. If you’re curious about how an HSA could work for you, check out this link to learn more.

2. Grow Your Own Food

Food is our biggest expense, so we started growing some of our own. It’s a small effort that saves money and ensures we eat fresh and healthy.

3. Rarely Dine Out

We rarely spend money at restaurants because my husband, Jason, is an incredible cook and makes most of our meals at home. This not only saves money but also allows us to eat healthier. On the occasions when we do eat out, we always bring home whatever we didn’t finish to avoid wasting food or money.

4. Combine Sustainability and Budgeting

I’ve found that living sustainably often saves money. We installed a solar roof through Trinity Solar, which can bring our electricity bill down to as low as $18 when I’m diligent about turning off lights. If you’re considering a solar roof, I highly recommend reaching out to Terry at Trinity Solar and letting him know Kristian sent you for a discount!

I’m also mindful of water use, compost food scraps, and even use extra water from cooking to hydrate our plants. These small steps add up and create a more sustainable, budget-friendly lifestyle.

5. Driving a Fuel-Efficient Car

I drive a Prius hybrid, which is both fuel-efficient and has an impressively long road life. Its efficiency saves on gas costs while reducing environmental impact, and the car’s durability means fewer expenses in the long run. A Toyota Prius can last between 200,000 and 300,000 miles with regular maintenance. Some Prius owners have even driven their cars for over 300,000 miles

6. Shop Smarter, Not Harder

I love second-hand stores and stick to brands like Cat & Jack because I can return them to Target, even after the kids outgrow them. It’s a win for the budget and the planet.

7. Loyalty Pays Off

I always look for loyalty perks, like earning rewards through Exxon Mobil for gas purchases. When you sign up for the Exxon Mobil Rewards+ loyalty program, and earn 100 bonus points when you join and make a fuel purchase of 8 gallons or more!

Here’s your referral code: $8XAI1T5

Download the app: https://exxon-us.app.link/fDeYTSkFHBb

Small benefits add up!

8. Leverage Good Debt

I’ve learned the difference between good debt and bad debt. For example:

• I use credit cards to earn travel points and get a month of interest but I pay them off in full every month. Here is my favorite credit card the Capital One

• The only interest I pay is for my home mortgage—not for cars or credit cards.

9. Ask the Right Questions Before Spending

Before making a purchase, I always ask:

• Is there a free or cheaper way to do this?

• Will this help me reach a goal?

• Should I save this money for a trip instead?

Building a Budget That Works for You

No one-size-fits-all solution exists when it comes to managing money. It’s about finding a balance between planning for the future and making smart decisions today. If you’re looking for a financial planner, budgeting tips, or just want to talk money, let’s connect.

Here’s to smarter spending and bigger savings!