Let’s be honest – the world of money can feel like an exclusive club you never got the invite to. Between spreadsheets, confusing jargon, and the endless talk of investments, it’s easy to feel like managing your finances is something best left to the “money-savvy” crowd. But here’s the truth – taking control of your money isn’t about being a financial genius. It’s about small, simple steps that anyone (yes, even you) can take. 

If you’re reading this thinking, “I don’t even know where to start,” you’re in the right place. This guide is for you – whether you’ve recently gone through a big life change like a divorce or just feel like it’s time to finally get a handle on your finances. Let’s break it down, step by step. 

1. Face the Numbers (With Kindness)

I know – the thought of opening your banking app and seeing the cold hard numbers can feel terrifying. But here’s the thing: avoiding it won’t make it better. In fact, not knowing is often worse because your mind tends to imagine the worst-case scenario. 

Here’s how to make it easier: 

• Set the Scene – Grab a cup of tea, light a candle, or put on your favourite playlist. Make it as cosy as possible. 

• Log In and Look – Open every account you have – current accounts, credit cards, savings – and jot down the balances. 

• Take a Deep Breath – No judgment here. This is about gathering information, not beating yourself up.

   

Why it Matters: 
Knowing where you stand is empowering. You can’t change what you don’t acknowledge, and facing the numbers head-on gives you the clarity to start making shifts. 

2. Track Where the Money’s Going

Before you make any changes, you need to understand your spending habits. Think of this like getting to know your money personality – are you a spontaneous spender, or does your money seem to vanish into thin air? 

Your Action Plan: 

• Track for 30 Days – For one month, jot down everything you spend. Use our tracking sheet, a simple notebook, or even your phone’s notes. 

• Categorise – Sort your spending into categories: essentials (like rent, bills), flexible (groceries, petrol), and fun (that online shopping spree).

   

The Goal: 
You’re not cutting anything yet – just observing. Awareness is half the battle. 

3. Build a Simple Money Plan (Forget ‘Budgets’)

The word ‘budget’ can feel restrictive, like a financial straightjacket. So let’s call it a Money Plan instead – because that’s exactly what it is. This is your roadmap to tell your money where to go, instead of wondering where it went. 

How to Start: 

• List Your Essentials – Rent/mortgage, utilities, groceries, debt payments. These are your non-negotiables. 

• Allocate for Fun – Yes, fun is part of the plan! Budgeting for things that make you happy (like that Friday latte) prevents overspending later. 

• Create a ‘Safety Net’ – Even if it’s $10 a month, start setting aside a little emergency fund. Future you will thank you. 

4. Tackle Debt Without the Overwhelm

Debt can feel like a heavy backpack you carry everywhere. But guess what? You can start lightening the load today. 

Your Action Plan: 

• List Your Debts – Write down every debt, the total balance, and the minimum payment. 

• Pick a Strategy:  

• Snowball Method – Pay off the smallest debt first for quick wins. 

• Avalanche Method – Focus on the highest interest debt first (saves you more long-term). 

• Call Your Lenders – Sometimes, simply asking for lower interest rates or payment plans can make a world of difference.

   

Remember: 
Paying down debt is progress, no matter how small the steps. 

5. Start Saving – Even a Little Counts

Saving can feel impossible when money’s tight, but it’s not about how much you save – it’s about the habit. Think of it like planting seeds. 

Easy Ways to Start: 

• Set Up Automatic Transfers – Even $5 a week into savings adds up over time. 

• Separate your bank accounts – Having separate accounts for different purposes gives you control without the overwhelm. 

• Challenge Yourself – Do a ‘No-Spend Weekend’ and pop what you saved into your account.

   

Why This Works: 
Building the habit of saving shifts your mindset from “I can’t afford to save” to “I’m someone who saves.” 

6. Set One Goal (and Make it Fun)

Money goals don’t have to be boring. Want to save for a holiday, pay off debt, or finally build that emergency fund? Give your goal a name – “Santorini Trip” sounds way more exciting than “General Savings.” 

Visualise Your Progress: 

• Create a Tracker – Colour in a chart to physically see your savings grow. 

• Celebrate Milestones – Hit $500? Treat yourself to a little something (within reason). 

7. Find a Support System

You don’t have to do this alone. Managing money is easier (and more fun) when you’re part of a community or have someone cheering you on. 

Where to Look: 

• Join a Financial Facebook Group like ours click here (INSERT LINK) 

• Join My Money Makeover here (INSERT LINK) 

• Find an Accountability Partner – Team up with a friend and check in monthly.

   

Why It Helps: 
Having support turns money management from a solo mission into a shared journey. 

8. Keep Learning (Without the Overwhelm)

Financial literacy is like learning a new language – start with the basics and build from there. 

Simple Ways to Learn: 

• Podcasts & YouTube – Listen while you cook or commute You will find the link to ours here (INSERT LINK). 

• Short Books – Pick up easy-to-read personal finance books. 

• Follow Finance Blogs – A little bit each day adds up. 

9. Celebrate Every Win

Every step you take – whether it’s paying off $50 of debt or saving $20 – deserves celebration. Progress is progress. 

Final Thoughts – You’ve Got This 

Taking control of your finances doesn’t happen overnight, but every small shift you make brings you closer to the confident, money-savvy version of yourself. Don’t wait for the “perfect moment” – start today, with the small steps we’ve covered. 

Your financial future is in your hands – and you’re more capable than you think. Let’s do this.