When it comes to growing wealth, it’s not just the big moves—like landing a high-paying job or making a profitable investment—that can create meaningful change. The truth is that small, consistent actions, or micro financial habits, lead to significant growth over time.
Here’s a list of tiny habits that can create big wins regarding financial growth. There are tons more micro-habits out there, so find what works for you and see how big of an impact these can have on your short-term and long-term financial goals.
Savings: Building a savings cushion doesn’t require monumental effort; it starts with consistency.
- Set up an automatic transfer from your checking account to your savings or investment account each payday.
- Put extra change, leftover pocket funds, and marketplace sales into a jar for discretionary spending or to save for something you want.
- Round up your savings accounts. When interest accumulates in your savings account each month, transfer funds to round it up to the nearest $50 or $100.
- Transfer the leftover balance in your checking account at the end of each month into savings.
Budgeting: Effective budgeting isn’t overhauling your spending; it’s about making intentional choices.
- Check your bank account daily to reset your money mindset for the day and check for issues.
- Implement a no-spend day or week to avoid spending during those times and support your budget
- Track the small stuff – every single thing. Even if it’s on a simple notepad or your phone.
- Plan for large purchases in advance. This can help you set aside funds regularly vs one lump sum.
Spending: Money out can be one of the biggest downfalls to a secure financial future, so mindful spending can greatly impact future financial success.
- Implement a “24-hour rule” for discretionary purchases to curb impulse buying.
- Use a cashback app or coupon finder for everyday purchases.
- Unsubscribe from social media and email advertising that could be tempting.
- Aim to purchase second-hand through thrifting or marketplace buys where possible.
Investing: Time is money, literally. You can build a disciplined, growth-focused strategy over time, setting yourself up for long-term success
- Use platforms that round up your purchases and invest the spare change.
- Commit to increasing your contributions by 1% annually or with every raise.
- Plan to use a percentage of every bonus or unexpected windfall toward your investment accounts.
- Set up automatic transfers to your investment accounts, ensuring consistent contributions
The beauty of micro habits lies in their simplicity. They require minimal effort, are easy to sustain, and yield compounding benefits over time. Small steps build momentum, and as you see results, it becomes easier to maintain and grow these habits. Start small today—your future self will thank you.
