The holidays are magical… and expensive. Between gifts, travel, meals, parties, tips, charity giving, and those “quick” Target runs that aren’t quick at all, it’s easy to overspend and start the new year stressed. The good news: a holiday budget doesn’t mean “no fun.” It means planned fun—so you can enjoy the season and still protect your goals. Here’s how to...
The holidays bring joy, but also pressure — pressure to spend, to give, and to keep up. Between Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and endless “limited-time deals,” even disciplined spenders can lose focus. This year, let’s flip the script. You can enjoy the season and protect your financial momentum by being informed, intentional, and alert. 1. Recognize the Psychology of Holiday Pressure Retailers are...
Thanksgiving is about gratitude, family, and good food — not financial regret. Yet for many households, November is the month when spending spirals out of control. Between travel, food, and festivities, it’s easy to overspend or swipe that credit card “just this once.” The truth is, you can enjoy a memorable Thanksgiving without sacrificing your financial progress — it just takes...
Managing money doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, one of the best ways to take control of your finances is to go back to the basics. When you understand where your money comes from, where it goes, and how to maximize it, you’ll build a stronger foundation for your financial future. Gross vs. Net vs. Taxable Income These three terms show...
Money is one of the top stressors in people’s lives, and when you combine it with mental health challenges like ADHD, ADD, or anxiety, it can feel overwhelming. But while it may be harder, it’s not impossible. With the right mindset, tools, and strategies, you can learn to work with your brain instead of against it, and turn struggles into...
The Case for Automation in Personal Finance If you've ever struggled to save money consistently, you're not alone. Life gets busy, expenses add up, and saving often takes a back seat. But what if you could take the stress, guilt, and guesswork out of the equation entirely? That’s where automation comes in. Automating your savings—especially by assigning a fixed percentage of your income—removes...
Why Insurance Still Matters—Even When It’s Hard to Get Insurance is one of those financial tools that many people don’t appreciate until they need it. Whether you’re renting a small apartment or own a family home, coverage can be the difference between a temporary inconvenience and a financial disaster. But lately, the world of insurance has become harder to navigate—especially for residents...
As financial experts, we’ve seen many families plan meticulously for human emergencies while overlooking one important member of the household: the family pet. Veterinary costs—especially unexpected ones—can be devastating if you're not financially prepared. Whether you're a dog mom, cat dad, or the proud parent of a more exotic creature, here’s how to budget smartly for your pet’s expected and...
Every parent wants to give their child the best possible future, and education is one of the most valuable investments you can make. However, with the rising cost of tuition, books, and living expenses, many families struggle to prepare financially. The key to successfully funding your child’s education lies in early planning, strategic saving, and understanding your options. At Level Coaching,...