Do you find yourself reaching the end of the month wondering where your money has gone – again? You’re earning, spending, maybe even saving a little… but it never feels like enough. If this sounds familiar, the issue may not be your income. It may be your habits – the small, often unnoticed behaviours that quietly shape your financial life.

It’s not just about what you earn

In my work as a financial planner, I’ve met people with high incomes who feel just as financially anxious as those earning far less. The common thread? Habits that quietly undermine their financial well-being. These are often unconscious patterns – behaviours repeated so often they become automatic. We don’t question them because they feel normal. But over time, they shape our money story and our future.

The good news? Just like they were formed, habits can be unlearned, reworked, and replaced with new ones that support the life you want to live.

Here are some of the habits I see most often:

Not paying attention to your money: When you ignore your financial reality, you give up the opportunity to be intentional. Many people stick their heads in the sand, avoiding their finances out of fear or feeling overwhelmed. But avoidance only creates more anxiety. The first step to making your money work for you is to face it head-on and take back control.

Not having a budget: Without a clear plan for how you want to use your money, it’s easy to spend reactively, especially when emotions take over. You might reward yourself after a tough day, ease stress with retail therapy, or splurge on something you don’t really need. Emotional spending can feel good in the moment but often leads to regret later. A simple spending plan (budget) gives your money direction and helps you stay focused on what really matters – your goals, dreams, and future security.

Giving money more meaning than it deserves: Money is not status. It’s not success. It’s not proof of your worth. Yet so many people spend beyond their means trying to feel enough – because money has become a symbol of identity, power, or approval. At its core, money is just that – money. That’s all money is – an enabler. It’s there to support your goals and your life, not define who you are.

When we attach meaning to money, we tell ourselves stories about it. If you believe you’ll never have enough, that belief can shape your reality. You may stop trying, stop planning, or settle for less than what’s possible. Your thoughts create your experience – especially when it comes to money. Changing your relationship with money starts with changing what you believe about it.

Delaying important decisions: From drawing up a will to starting a budget, we often put off financial decisions until we’re forced to act. But procrastination can lead to unnecessary stress and missed opportunities.

Losing track of the small stuff: It’s often not one big expense but a hundred little ones. The takeaway cappuccino, the app subscription, the online sale. These all add up and often go unnoticed until there’s a crisis.

Managing debt poorly: While only paying the minimum on your credit card or loan might feel manageable, it’s a long road that ends in more interest, more stress, and less freedom.

Having no clear financial plan: Without a plan, your money has no direction. When you’re clear on your goals, every financial decision becomes easier – because you know what you’re working toward.

Unlearning the habits that no longer serve you

• Start where you are
  One of my clients, Patience, didn’t have a big savings goal at first. She just committed to saving a small amount every month. That habit grew into something far more powerful: her future security.
• Focus on one habit at a time
• Instead of tackling everything at once, pick one small habit – like reviewing your expenses weekly – and stick with it. Build momentum from there.
• Build systems, not just intentions
  Willpower fades. Systems stick. Automate your savings. Set reminders for financial check-ins. Meet with your financial planner annually. Get an accountability partner.
• Celebrate small wins
  Progress doesn’t have to feel like punishment. Reward yourself when you hit a milestone – it’ll help you stay motivated and positive.

Here are a few questions to help you get started:

• What money habit is no longer serving me?
• What small change could I make this month that would serve me better?
• Where am I giving away my power with money?
• What would financial freedom look like for me – and what’s one step toward it?

If you’re ready to change your money story and build habits that truly serve you, explore the following resources:

• Midlife Money Makeover offers practical and inspiring insights to help you consciously create your best life – one that’s enabled by your money.
• 14 Action Steps to Make Your Money Work for You is a free eBook that will guide you through the basics of creating a comprehensive financial plan that supports your life’s journey and helps you achieve your goals.

Kim