Wise Habits

Do you know the single most important money habit?

Our 30th President, Calvin Coolidge, knew how important it was. He said: There is no dignity quite so impressive, and no one independence quite so important, as living within your means.

Wish I’d said that!

To get a feel for your money habits, look at your credit card statements, bank statements, bills you receive and pay, your budget, and your investments.

You’ll see spending trends in areas like education or medical expenses, services, subscriptions, food, entertainment, clothing, and basic living expenses.

you need to write down areas you need to change. This can be painful as you see where money has been wasted or misused. Especially in marriage.

So stay calm, encourage one another and seek unity to deal with problems. Don’t hide your spending – that’s dishonest.

Ask God to free you from wrongful heart attitudes of disinterest, materialism, selfishness, pride, self-reliance, greed, idolatry, or gluttony.

You need to make new habits to break the old ones. This takes time. Experts differ on it – some say 3 weeks, others say 3 months. But with God, all things are possible!

Realize your spending triggers, limit social media and seek the support of wise friends and family. Pray with your spouse and for your spouse.   

With a heart right before God, you can begin to focus on living within your means.

If you’re looking for practical ways to start tracking your spending, visit the resource section of our website at crown.org or call the Crown Help Line at 800 722-1976.