When Love Meets Preparation: The Financial Side of Saying Goodbye

On January 25, my dad, Alfred D. Riddick, Sr., passed away. Like most families, we were grieving—emotionally, spiritually, and physically. What we were not doing was scrambling for money or information. And that mattered more than I can fully explain.

The total cost of my dad’s funeral and repast exceeded $15,000. Because my parents had been intentional and responsible with their finances over the last 15 years of his life, there was no GoFundMe page, no urgent calls for help, and no financial panic. Every expense related to the funeral was paid within 24 hours.

Just as important, my mom didn’t have to carry unnecessary stress. All the key documents—insurance policies, account information, and clear instructions—were organized and stored in a safe deposit box. Once we received notarized copies of the death certificate, my role was straightforward: contact the appropriate companies and begin the claims process. No guessing. No digging. No confusion.

But here’s the part many families overlook.

When a spouse passes away, the household income often changes immediately.

Because my mom is the surviving spouse, she will now receive my dad’s Social Security benefit since it was the larger of the two. Her Social Security check will stop. In addition, the retirement check my dad received from the State of North Carolina will also stop. Practically speaking, my mother will now live on roughly 50% of their previous household income.

That is a significant financial shift.

This is why it makes sense to enter your golden years with as little debt as possible—no mortgage payment, no consumer debt, no unnecessary financial obligations. When one spouse transitions, the emotional loss is profound. The financial impact is real. The last thing a surviving spouse needs is the pressure of fixed expenses built on a two-income retirement.

Preparing financially for your transition isn’t morbid—it’s an act of love.

The benefits of preparing in advance include:

  • Reducing emotional and financial stress for your loved ones

  • Ensuring funeral expenses can be handled quickly without debt or fundraising

  • Providing clear instructions and access to important documents

  • Minimizing confusion and delays during an already difficult time

  • Structuring retirement so the surviving spouse can live with stability and dignity

My dad gave us many gifts. One of the last was peace of mind.

If you haven’t prepared yet, let this be your reminder: planning ahead isn’t about fear—it’s about love, leadership, and protecting the people who will one day have to carry on without you.

One of the things my dad talked about during his final year was making it to 81. He would joke that the Bible promised “three score and ten” (70 years), so the extra 11 were his bonus years.

In honor of his 81 years and the legacy he leaves behind, I’m opening 81 spots in my online financial wellness course for $8.10. If you’re ready to give your money clearer direction and build something that lasts, I invite you to join us.

Use code bonus11years to enroll. Here’s the link: Game On - A Financial Fitness Experience

Me and mom reviewing her new budget effective February 1, 2026.

Prices Are Rising… But Spending Doesn’t Have To

A Lesson in Controlling What You Can

Recent news reports highlighted rising grocery and utility prices over the past year. That prompted Al to take a closer look at what those increases actually meant inside his own household.

The results told a different story.

From 2024 to 2025, grocery spending in the Riddick household decreased by $1,298. Utility spending? Increased by $71.

The takeaway was simple—but powerful: there’s a difference between price and cost.

Prices are external. They’re set by the market.
Costs are personal. They’re driven by behavior, choices, and systems.

While no one can control the price of groceries or utilities, everyone can influence their cost by shopping intentionally, tracking spending consistently, and understanding their numbers. That clarity makes it easier to separate economic noise from personal reality—and focus energy where it actually matters.

Why Controlling the Cost Matters

  • You stay empowered instead of overwhelmed.
    Rising prices don’t have to derail your plan when you control your spending decisions.

  • You adjust faster and smarter.
    Tracking reveals where small habit changes can create meaningful savings.

  • You build confidence through data—not headlines.
    Your numbers tell a clearer story than the news cycle ever will.

  • You maintain momentum toward your goals.
    Intentional spending keeps progress moving forward, regardless of market conditions.

Game Time Reminder:
Financial success isn’t about predicting the economy—it’s about mastering your behaviors and systems so you can thrive in any environment.

If you want a simple, easy-to-follow system to save more, reduce debt, and improve your quality of life, check out these resources: https://gametimebudgeting.com/resources

Tis the Season to Reflect on Your Money Story

A person’s relationship with money doesn’t begin when they open their first bank account or got their first job. It begins much earlier—shaped by what they saw, heard, and experienced growing up.

For example, when Al Riddick was around 10 years old, he believed that anyone driving a BMW or Mercedes-Benz must be rich. To his young mind, the car in the driveway was the clearest sign of financial success.

Over time, he discovered that wasn’t always true. Income doesn’t equal wealth. Possessions don’t equal financial stability. And appearances definitely don’t equal freedom.

This realization led him to ask one of the most important financial questions of his life:

“What do I believe about money… that might not actually be true?”

Many adults continue to carry childhood beliefs—some helpful, some harmful—into their financial lives.

Al encourages reflection on questions such as:

👉 What experiences—positive or negative—have shaped the way you view personal finance?
👉 What childhood money lessons still influence your decisions today?
👉 Which beliefs might need to be challenged, updated, or released?

Everyone’s money story is powerful—but it doesn’t have to define their financial future.

The Hidden Cost of Convenience: Beware of Surveillance Pricing

Every click, swipe, and online search tells a story—and companies are listening closely. This digital eavesdropping has given rise to surveillance pricing, a strategy where retailers quietly adjust prices based on what they know (or think they know) about you.

Here’s how it works: When you shop online, companies collect data such as your location, browsing history, income indicators, and even the type of device you’re using. Then, using algorithms, they personalize prices to match what you’re likely willing to pay. Two shoppers could look at the exact same item—say, a pair of running shoes—but see two different prices. One person might get a discount, while another pays more simply because the data suggests they can afford to.

It’s a modern twist on an age-old sales tactic—only this time, the negotiation happens behind the scenes.

So how can you protect yourself?

  • Shop in incognito or private mode. This prevents websites from using your browsing history to influence prices.

  • Clear cookies regularly. These small files track your habits across multiple sites.

  • Compare prices on multiple devices or browsers. You might be surprised by what you find.

  • Avoid clicking ads or emails directly. Go to the retailer’s site on your own instead.

Surveillance pricing isn’t illegal—but it’s a reminder that data has value, and someone is always calculating yours.

At Game Time Budgeting, we believe informed consumers make better money decisions. Whether it’s budgeting, saving, or outsmarting hidden costs, remember: the more you understand how money moves around you, the more control you keep over where it goes.

How Al Failed as a Son

In 2023, my dad had an aneurysm. Overnight, my mom, Alice, took on responsibilities he had handled for decades—paying bills, managing accounts, keeping track of deadlines. At first, she dove in with enthusiasm. She loved learning how their finances worked and even seemed excited by the challenge.

But by September 2025, I could see the change. Paying bills had become just another task on her long list. During a visit, she showed me paperwork about an increase in her auto insurance premiums. Without a second thought, I got on the phone, called the insurance representative, and resolved it—saving her money, just like I always do.

Later, as we were reviewing their monthly budget and talking about small tweaks to reduce stress, she said something that hit me like a lightning bolt: “I don’t want to run out of money.”

At that moment, I realized I had failed as a son.

Because my mom trusts me with financial decisions, I had gotten into the habit of giving answers instead of teaching her to think through situations herself. She had been carrying unnecessary worry—feeling like she might run out of money—when I knew it was impossible based on how they live and spend. My mistake wasn’t helping her—it was not showing her why her money was safe. I had robbed her of confidence in her own financial decisions.

I wanted to protect her from stress, but in doing so, I created it. The lesson hit me hard: teaching someone how to think about money is far more powerful than solving problems for them.

Key Takeaways:

  1. Teach, don’t just fix: Empowering someone to make their own decisions builds lasting confidence.

  2. Financial understanding reduces stress: Explaining why something is safe can prevent unnecessary worry.

  3. Trust is not enough: Being relied on is valuable, but showing how and why decisions work nurtures independence.

Old School vs. New School Money Management

When Al recently came across an old checkbook transaction register, it sparked a reflection on how money management has changed over the years.

In the “old school” days, every purchase was written down, balances were updated by hand, and people always knew—almost to the penny—where they stood. Today, banking apps and digital wallets provide instant access to balances with just a tap. The pro is obvious: convenience. The con is subtle: as Al’s wife, Lesia, put it best—“Sometimes when things are convenient they aren’t top of mind.”

That simple act of writing down transactions created space for intentional reflection about spending. Now, with everything automated, it’s easy to lose track of habits.

Whether old school or new school, Al believes financial wellness isn’t about the tool—it’s about the awareness. Because at the end of the day, true money management is more than checking balances; it’s checking behaviors.


A Smart Checklist for Helping Aging Parents

Caring for aging parents can be tough, especially when it comes to handling their money and medical needs. Many families wait too long to have these important talks. Then, when something happens, loved ones are left guessing—and that can cause stress, mistakes, or even money problems.

To make things easier, it’s a smart idea to get organized now. Here’s a simple checklist of what you should talk about and gather with your parents. Keep all the information in a safe place where you can reach it when needed.

✅ Important Information to Know or Collect:

Usernames and Passwords

You need access to online accounts, like:

o Mortgage

o Homeowners, auto, and life insurance

o Utilities (gas, water, electric)

o House phone, cell phone, cable, internet

o Auto loans

o Credit cards

o Bank accounts

o Health insurance

o Brokerage accounts (where investments are held)

Authorized Access

Ask your parent to call these companies and add you as an authorized user on their accounts. That way, you can call and ask questions if something goes wrong.

Health Insurance Cards

Make a copy of the front and back of each health insurance card. You’ll need this for doctor visits or emergencies.

Doctor Contact Info

Make a list of doctors your parent sees. Ask if you can have online access to their health records or appointment system.

House Key & Safe Deposit Box Key

You’ll need access to the house and any safety deposit box they use. Make sure you know where the keys are.

Copy of the Will

Know where the will is kept. Ask for a copy if possible.

Healthcare Power of Attorney, Financial Power of Attorney, Living Will, Organ Donor Status (www.organdonor.gov/sign-up/how)

Document your parent’s wishes while they are of sound mind and body

Banking Accounts

See if your parent will add you as a joint signer or set up the account as payable on death (POD). This helps avoid legal issues later and gives you quicker access if needed.

Update Beneficiaries

Ask your parent to double-check who is listed as a beneficiary on life insurance, bank accounts, and retirement accounts. Don’t just assume it’s you—ask to see the paperwork.

Funeral and Obituary Plans

This may feel uncomfortable, but ask if your parent has a plan or preferences for their funeral. Do they have a program already made? Would they like help writing their obituary? Talking now can prevent stress later.

Final Tip:

You don’t have to get all of this done in one day. Pick one topic at a time and talk it through. Let your parent know you’re doing this out of love—and that it’s better to be prepared than panicked.

Being organized today can bring peace tomorrow.

Where Do You Live? A Tale of Three Towns: Consumerville, Saverville, and Investorville

In the world of personal finance, there are three fictitious towns that represent real-life money habits—Consumerville, Saverville, and Investorville. Each town paints a picture of how our spending choices shape our financial future.

Life in Consumerville

Consumerville is lively, colorful, and full of temptation. The residents here pride themselves on having the latest gadgets, trendiest outfits, and constant convenience at their fingertips. Purchases are often driven by impulse and emotion—whether it’s grabbing daily takeout or clicking “add to cart” after a late-night scroll.

But here’s the catch: in Consumerville, financial emergencies are typically handled with credit cards. There’s little to no savings, and even less planning. The lifestyle looks good on the outside, but inside? Financial stress is high and wealth-building is practically nonexistent.

The Pace of Saverville

Down the road is Saverville, a more peaceful, intentional place. People here don’t chase the latest trends—they prioritize stability. Bills are paid on time, emergency funds are growing, and there’s a thoughtful plan for upcoming expenses.

Residents of Saverville know how to say no to impulse purchases and yes to long-term goals. They're strategic and purposeful. While they’re not quite building wealth yet, they’ve created a solid foundation. The challenge here? If they don’t eventually transition to investing, they may find themselves standing still while inflation quietly eats away at their savings.

The Vibe in Investorville

Then there’s Investorville—home of long-term thinkers. These individuals started in Saverville but took the next step. They not only live below their means, they put their money to work. Every dollar has an assignment, and many of those dollars are busy earning more dollars.

Investorville residents understand the power of compound growth. They’ve budgeted, planned, and now they’re building wealth that supports their future goals—from retirement to real estate to generational impact. Emergencies don’t rattle them, and financial freedom isn’t a dream—it’s a destination they’re actively reaching.

So, Where Do You Live?

Everyone lives somewhere on this map. Some have been longtime residents of Consumerville, while others are just arriving in Saverville, hoping to make it to Investorville.

The good news? No moving truck is required. Just a shift in mindset, consistent behavior, and better financial systems.

Every spending decision is a vote for the town you want to live in.

Spend impulsively, and you extend your lease in Consumerville.

Save with purpose, and you start laying roots in Saverville.

Invest intentionally, and you’re building your dream home in Investorville.

At Game Time Budgeting, we help individuals navigate this journey. Because when it comes to your money, the right zip code can change everything.

Retirement Is Happening Right Now—Are You Ready?

When most people think about retirement, they picture a far-off future—gray hair, rocking chairs, and hopefully, toes in the sand somewhere warm. But here’s the reality: your retirement is happening every single day you go to work.

That’s right. Retirement isn’t just some date on the calendar. It’s the result of the decisions you make today, tomorrow, and every day after that. The way you spend money today directly impacts the lifestyle you’ll have when you stop collecting a paycheck.

Would You Take a Road Trip Without Directions?

Let’s say you’re planning an epic cross-country road trip. You’re excited, you’ve got the snacks ready, the playlist is fire… but you forgot one thing—you have no idea where you’re going. No address. No route. You’re just out here… vibing.

How far do you think you’d get before frustration sets in?

This is exactly what happens when you go through life without a financial plan. If you don’t give every dollar a purpose, your money will just drift away—probably toward things that bring zero long-term value (like that subscription you forgot to cancel three months ago).

Your Money Should Work Harder Than You Do

We work hard for our money, but do we make our money work hard for us? Too often, people think budgeting (a.k.a. cash flow planning for those who hate the B-word) is about restriction. But it’s actually about control. It’s about telling your money what to do so that future-you isn’t out here wondering how you ended up eating ramen noodles at 75.

If you don’t take charge of your money now, you’re gambling with your future. And let’s be real—hope is not a financial strategy.

Game Plan for a Strong Financial Future

So, how do you start making retirement-ready decisions today?

1. Give every dollar an assignment. If you don’t tell your money where to go, it will disappear.

2. Live below your means. If your lifestyle matches (or exceeds) your income, you’re not building wealth—you’re just maintaining a job.

3. Save like your future depends on it—because it does. Emergency fund first, investments next.

Make Future-You Proud

Your retirement isn’t some distant event—it’s being built right now by the financial choices you make every single day. So, what’s the move? Are you setting yourself up for beachfront views or budgeting for the “senior discount” on ramen noodles?

The choice is yours. Plan accordingly.

How to Feed a Family of Four for $400: The Ultimate Budget Meal Plan

Grocery prices have reached alarming levels, making every trip to the store feel like a financial burden. Many families wonder if they should start growing their own food or simply do without. However, before resorting to extreme measures, it is worth exploring a practical and affordable meal plan that allows a family of four to eat for just $400 per month.

Yes, It’s Possible! Here’s How.

In the most challenging financial situations, ensuring that a family remains well-fed requires a simple yet nutritious meal plan. While it may not be luxurious or varied, it provides sustenance and stability. Additionally, it eliminates the stress of deciding what to eat each day.

The Budget Breakdown

Breakfast: Oatmeal ($40.99 for a 50 pound bag)

  • A serving is ½ cup per person (2 cups total for the family).

  • Cost per day: $0.82

  • Total monthly cost: $24.60

Lunch & Dinner: Black Beans, Rice, and Vegetables

Black Beans ($49.99 for a 50 pound bag)

  • Each person receives ½ cup per meal (4 cups per day total).

  • Cost per day: $1

  • Total monthly cost: $30

  • Oatmeal and Black Beans prices obtained from a local grocery store in Fairfield, OH.

Rice ($24.99 for a 20 pound bag)

  • A serving is ½ cup per person (4 cups per day for the family)

  • A 20 lb. bag lasts 10 days, requiring three bags per month.

  • Total monthly cost: $74.97

Frozen Organic Mixed Vegetables (Costco) ($9.82 for a 5.5 pound bag)

  • To provide enough servings, 21 bags are necessary.

  • Total monthly cost: $206.22

  • Costco Membership: $65 (a worthwhile investment for other essential items as well.)

Grand Total: $400.79

Why This Works

This meal plan meets several key requirements:

✅ Affordability: Keeps costs around $400.

✅ Nutritional Balance: Oatmeal provides fiber and energy; beans offer protein and fiber; rice supplies carbohydrates; and vegetables contribute essential vitamins.

✅ Minimal Waste: Bulk purchases reduce trips to the store and limit impulse buying.

✅ Sustainability: While it may not be exciting, the plan ensures sufficient nourishment and financial stability.

Ways to Add Variety Without Breaking the Bank

  • Spices & Seasonings: Simple additions like salt, garlic, or hot sauce enhance flavor at little cost.

  • Seasonal Fruits: Low-cost, in-season fruits offer a natural source of sweetness.

  • Home Baking: With flour, sugar, and yeast, homemade bread provides an inexpensive alternative to store-bought options.

The Takeaway

While eating the same meal every day is far from ideal, having a structured and affordable meal plan ensures that no one in the household goes hungry. When grocery prices seem overwhelming, families always have options. Once financial circumstances improve, meal variety will become an even greater source of appreciation.

By planning wisely, staying nourished, and making the most of available resources, families can navigate difficult times while keeping their finances intact.

The Benefits of an Open Relationship: Why Financial Transparency Matters

In Al’s recent interview on Simply Money with Amy Wagner, he explored the power of financial transparency in relationships. While the phrase open marriage might make you think of adding another person, the real third party in this conversation is money. Al discussed why couples should treat financial openness as a non-negotiable, how to create a judgment-free space for money conversations, and practical steps to align financial goals. If you and your partner want to strengthen your financial bond, this episode is a must-listen!

Click below to listen to the full 8-minute conversation.

Why Beating the S&P 500 Might Not Mean What You Think

When financial advisors claim to have “beaten the S&P 500 over the past decade,” it’s easy to assume they have consistently outperformed the stock market. However, this statement can be misleading. Many people don’t realize that the S&P 500 index, as reported in the news, only reflects price appreciation—how much the stock prices have risen or fallen. What it doesn’t account for is the dividends those stocks pay, which can significantly impact overall returns.

Understanding the S&P 500

The S&P 500 is a stock market index that tracks the performance of 500 of the largest publicly traded companies in the U.S. Investors and financial professionals often use it as a benchmark for overall market performance. When news outlets report that “the S&P 500 is up 10% this year,” they are referring only to the price changes of the stocks within the index, not the total return investors receive.

The Role of Dividends

Dividends are payments that companies distribute to shareholders, usually as a portion of their profits. Not all companies pay dividends, but many large, stable corporations do. For example, if an investor owns 100 shares of a company that pays an annual dividend of $2 per share, they receive $200 per year simply for holding the stock.

Why Dividends Matter for Total Returns

The S&P 500 Total Return Index (SPTR) includes both price appreciation and dividends reinvested over time. Historically, dividends have played a crucial role in long-term market returns. According to historical data, from 1990 to 2020, the S&P 500 price index grew at an average annual rate of around 7.5%. However, when dividends were reinvested, the total return was closer to 10.5% per year. Over a decade or more, this difference compounds significantly.

The Power of Dividend Reinvestment

Reinvesting dividends means using them to purchase additional shares of stock rather than taking them as cash. This strategy can accelerate wealth accumulation because new shares generate their own dividends, leading to exponential growth. For example, an investor who put $10,000 into the S&P 500 in 1993 and reinvested all dividends would have seen their investment grow to more than $150,000 by 2023, compared to approximately $90,000 if they only relied on price appreciation.

The Truth Behind “Beating the Market”

When an advisor claims to have outperformed the S&P 500, it’s essential to ask whether they are comparing their results to the price index or the total return index. If they’re only measuring against price appreciation, their claim may not be as impressive as it seems. To truly assess performance, investors should compare returns to the S&P 500 Total Return Index, which accounts for both stock growth and dividends reinvested.

Final Thoughts

Understanding the difference between the S&P 500’s price index and its total return index can help investors make more informed decisions. Dividends are a critical component of market returns, and their reinvestment can significantly enhance long-term wealth-building strategies. Before trusting an advisor’s claim of “beating the market,” it’s worth digging deeper to see what they’re really measuring.

The Benefits of an Open Relationship

The term "open relationship" often conjures images of unconventional romantic arrangements, where partners expand their connections beyond the traditional duo. But what if the third party in this relationship wasn’t a person? What if it was money? By treating money as an active participant in their relationship, couples can unlock deeper levels of trust, understanding, and collaboration. Here are four key benefits of opening a relationship to include money.

Deeper Communication

Strong relationships thrive on open communication, and involving money in the dynamic takes honesty to a new level. Discussing finances—whether it’s income, spending habits, or long-term goals—pushes couples to engage in candid conversations that might otherwise be avoided. Addressing these topics head-on can help clarify misunderstandings, uncover hidden worries, and strengthen trust. Couples who make money part of their dialogue often report that communication improves across other aspects of their relationship as well.

Shared Vision and Alignment

Introducing money into the relationship encourages partners to align on long-term goals. Whether saving for a dream vacation, investing in a new home, or planning for future milestones, financial discussions ensure both individuals are on the same page. This alignment fosters a sense of teamwork and reduces potential conflicts over spending or saving. Experts often note that a shared financial vision strengthens the overall partnership by creating a unified path forward.

Less Financial Stress

Money is one of the most common sources of tension in relationships, but it doesn’t have to be. An open approach to finances allows couples to face challenges together, such as managing debt, budgeting for unexpected expenses, or planning for major purchases. Tackling these issues as a team transforms money from a source of stress into a tool for building security and stability. This collaborative approach strengthens the relationship and provides peace of mind.

Heightened Emotional Connection

Incorporating money into a relationship isn’t just practical—it’s intimate. Financial discussions often reveal deeply personal aspirations, fears, and values, fostering greater emotional closeness. Celebrating wins together, like paying off a credit card or hitting a savings milestone, creates shared moments of pride and joy. Over time, these experiences deepen the bond between partners, as they build a life that reflects their mutual goals.

Redefining Openness

An open relationship with money isn’t about creating complications or introducing chaos; it’s about embracing collaboration and transparency. Like any successful relationship, it requires trust, communication, and shared commitment. When money becomes an active participant in the partnership, it can serve as a bridge that strengthens bonds and fosters growth.

After all, love and partnership are about more than just feelings—they’re about building a life together. Inviting money into that journey can help couples create a future filled with purpose, connection, and success.

Financial Tips for the New Year You Won’t Want to Quit

Each January, millions of people set ambitious resolutions to improve their finances, health, and overall well-being. Yet, by the second Friday of the month—dubbed National Quitter’s Day—many have already abandoned their goals. The truth is, setting the bar too high can make change feel overwhelming. But when it comes to personal finance, small, achievable steps can lead to lasting transformation.

Here are five financial habits you can adopt this year that are so simple and rewarding, you won’t feel the urge to quit.

1. Give Every Dollar a Job

A budget isn’t a straitjacket; it’s a tool to help make your money behave. Begin by listing your monthly income and expenses. Then, assign each dollar a specific purpose—whether it’s paying bills, building an emergency fund, or treating yourself to a small indulgence. When every dollar has a job, you’ll feel more in control and less stressed about where your money is going.

2. Celebrate Small Wins

Financial progress doesn’t have to mean paying off all your debt or saving thousands overnight. Did you pack lunch three days this week instead of eating out? That’s a win. Did you add $20 to your savings account? Another win. Celebrating these small victories keeps you motivated and reinforces positive financial behaviors.

3. Automate Good Habits

One of the easiest ways to stick to your financial goals is to automate them. Set up automatic transfers to your savings account or retirement fund on payday. Use apps to round up your purchases and save the difference. When saving and investing happen automatically, you’ll make progress without even thinking about it.

4. Track Your Spending Without Judgment

Tracking your expenses is like looking in the mirror—it helps you see what’s working and what needs adjustment. Use a notebook, spreadsheet, or an app to record your purchases. Approach this exercise with curiosity, not criticism. The goal isn’t to feel guilty but to gain awareness and make informed choices.

5. Find Your “Why”

Financial goals feel more attainable when they’re tied to a deeper purpose. Are you saving for a family vacation? Paying off debt to reduce stress? Building wealth to support your ideal retirement lifestyle? Keep your “why” front and center. It’ll serve as a powerful motivator when challenges arise.

The Power of Progress

Financial wellness isn’t about perfection—it’s about progress. By adopting manageable habits and celebrating every step forward, you’ll build confidence and momentum. Remember, your relationship with money is a journey, not a sprint.

This National Quitter’s Day, choose not to quit. Instead, commit to small, sustainable changes that will transform the way you think, feel, and act about money. As the weeks and months unfold, you’ll find yourself not just sticking to your financial goals but thriving because of them. And that’s a resolution worth keeping.

A Simple Hack to Avoid Payday Gymnastics

Many working adults can have great jobs, impressive titles, and solid incomes, yet still find themselves in the exhausting world of “payday gymnastics.” It’s a game that involves stretching every dollar, juggling due dates, and somehow keeping a sense of financial sanity intact.

Managing cash flow may not sound glamorous, but for those who sigh in relief when payday finally arrives—only to watch half of it disappear overnight—this challenge is all too real. There’s a simple, no-nonsense trick that can ease the stress without winning the lottery or taking on a second (or third) job: changing a few bill due dates.

Consider this familiar scenario: paychecks hit the bank every two weeks, right on schedule, but bills seem to operate on their own chaotic timetable. The car payment is due on the 10th, the electric bill swoops in on the 22nd, and the mortgage/rent unapologetically claims its share on the 1st. These due dates don’t align with paydays, creating a never-ending game of catch-up. Fortunately, there’s an easy way to smooth things out and put an end to the exhausting payday gymnastics—and it all starts with timing.

Many companies allow customers to adjust their due dates. Utility companies, car loan providers, and even credit card issuers often let people shift payment dates to better align with their pay schedules. It’s a simple change, but it can dramatically improve cash flow throughout the month.

Imagine if, instead of scattering bills like confetti, they could be grouped around payday. Suddenly, managing money feels less like an episode of Survivor and more like a walk in the park. With just a few phone calls, anyone can reduce the stress of juggling due dates and gain a sense of control over their finances. While changing due dates won’t create extra income, it can help take the edge off and provide some peace of mind.

Cash flow management doesn’t have to feel like an endless game of payday gymnastics. By simply aligning bill due dates with paydays, people can reduce financial stress, avoid unnecessary juggling, and take a meaningful step toward better financial control. It’s a small change, but one that can make a big difference. So, for anyone who’s ready to bring a little more calm to their cash flow, it’s time to make those calls, set those dates, and say goodbye to the financial acrobatics.

Fear Can Make You Broke

During a recent trip to Georgia for his nephew’s college graduation, Al had an opportunity to visit the home of his sister’s brother-in-law, Tim. He and his wife recently purchased a house and invested in some upgrades. Al was excited to take a tour.

While Al and Tim were hanging out in the basement man cave, Tim’s 9-year-old daughter, Skylar, kept walking down the first three steps and peeking to see what was going on. Eventually Tim asked, “Skylar, what are you doing?” She responded, “I’m trying to see when might be a good time to sell my bracelets.” This caught Al’s attention and he said, “Come on down and let me see what you have.”

Skylar showed Al her clipboard which contained a sales brochure and order form. She also displayed her container of bracelet making materials in assorted colors. Al loved how Skylar had a price list for her products and advertised the upcharge for charms and bracelets that contained more than two colors.

Everyone can learn some valuable lessons from Skylar. She had an idea and did not talk herself out of trying. She executed and turned her idea into income. Once Skylar made her sales pitch, Al decided to purchase a bracelet for his wife. He chose green and gray since their wedding colors were seafoam green and silver. Al agreed to the upsell and purchased a heart-shaped charm as well.

Once Skylar made the sale she stated, “If you don’t have cash, I accept CashApp.” Skylar provided better customer service than most adults. She was not afraid to make a sales pitch, talk about her product, and close the sale. She also made Al’s bracelet in about two minutes while he waited.

Later that evening Al saw Skylar at a dinner party with her parents. She walked toward him and as fate would have it, he was sitting beside his wife. Skylar asked, “How did your wife like her bracelet?” This was a simple question, but very effective. Al’s wife told Skylar how much she absolutely loved her new bracelet.

Regarding your relationship with money and letting fear get in the way of  progress, follow these tips:

  1. Identify areas of opportunity – What behaviors can you begin, or do more of, which would have a positive impact on your financial future?

  2. Make an effort – In the game of life, you will miss 100% of the shots you do not take. If living by a budget could help you save more, reduce debt, or improve your quality of life, what steps can you take to learn this important skill?

  3. Seek wise counsel – Once you have determined a plan of action, share it with someone who excels at money management to solicit feedback. Make adjustments as necessary.

Everyone, at some point in their life, experiences fear. The problem occurs when fear causes inaction. The next time you experience fear, just remember the story of Skylar’s Super Bracelets.