How I grew my net worth while binge-watching Netflix.
Let's face it: we've all been there, staring at our bank account, wondering how on earth we're supposed to save when it feels like we're just treading water.
But here's the kicker—everyone, and I mean everyone, starts somewhere. Even the financial gurus you see flashing their success on social media once stood exactly where you are now—unless, of course, they were a trust fund baby, and let's face it, there are not many of those out there.
While I'm no financial guru, I have been on my ass on more than one occasion in time past, and I know what it feels like. Younger me spent many an evening exhausted, literally left holding the baby bouncing on my knee as I sat at my kitchen table trying to make ends meet.
Money is hell in real life.
One of the worst times was when we were in debt during the Great Recession. We had a mortgage on a home in a ghost estate that we couldn't live in. We were renting, paying child care for two kids, and I was holding onto our one income with my fingers. It was awful. I can feel my guts wrenching at the memory.
That was my rock bottom, and I had every negative money narrative in history running on repeat in my head. That time in my life crushed my soul and weighed so heavily on every part of my life.
But here's the good news: That was a point in time. Every moment is a point in time, and time changes constantly; the world changes every second.
I did, and you can too.
Everyone has a narrative.
"But I'm terrible with money!" I hear you cry. Newsflash: that's a story you're telling yourself, and it's time to flip the script.
Here's the truth bomb: feeling like you're "no good with money" is as common as finding lint in your pocket. It's not a life sentence; it's just your starting point. It's only ever a starting point. You must make the next move and step into the game to get past that initial opening play.
And guess what? Starting points are exciting! They're full of potential, like a blank canvas waiting for your financial masterpiece.
I know what you're thinking: "Easy for you to say, Mrs. Money Mindset Coach! I'm barely scraping by!" I hear you, and I've got a little secret weapon that's about to change your game.
I've been where you are and will give you the cheat sheet.
The Kick Start Wealth Method:
Grab a jar, a box, or heck, even an old sock.
Every time you break a bill, toss the change in there.
Did you find a quarter on the street? In it goes!
Got a €5 bill? Pretend it's €10 and save the difference.
If cash isn't your thing, use jars, vaults or savings accounts in your online banking. Whatever works for you, lean into it. There is no one-size-fits-all.
Here's the magic: you're not "saving" in the traditional sense. You're playing a game with yourself, and before you know it, that jar/box/sock will start looking pretty hefty.
Life is more fun when games are involved.
But wait, there's more! (Yes, I went there.) This method isn't just about accumulating pocket change. It's about rewiring your brain. Every coin you drop is a tiny victory, a micro-dose of financial empowerment. You're literally building your money muscles, one cent at a time.
The Comparison Trap
"But what about all those people doing better than me?" Comparison is the thief of joy, my friend. For all you know, that guy flexing his new car on Instagram is drowning in debt. Chances are they are drowning in debt. Over 92% of families in Ireland have more than one type of debt, and 45% of people in Ireland have non-mortgage debt.
Focus on your own race. Your only competition is the person you were yesterday. Personal Bests are the only game in town.
Remember, financial success isn't about making giant leaps. It's about taking consistent, tiny steps.
It's about shifting from: "I can't" to "How can I?"
It's about realising that every financial journey, no matter how grand, starts with a single euro.
So, be the hero of your own money story. Grab that jar, find those coins, and start your adventure. Because here's the real secret: the moment you start, you've already won.
Your future self is cheering you on. Can you hear it?
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