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Budgeting and Financial Organization: Lessons from Life, Love, and Messy Homes

Recently, my wife sent me an opinion article from The New York Times titled “My Home is Messy, and I Don’t Feel Bad About It” by KC Davis. The author highlights many reasons why being messy can be a positive trait—from fostering creativity to accepting that the same DNA that “makes us shine can’t be divorced from what makes us scattered.” While my wife may be trying to convince me that her messiness is good, I remain someone who values organization.

I admit that when I ask, “Have you seen my (insert thing here) that I can’t find?” my wife almost always knows where to look. I prefer drawers without clutter, but that’s a battle I don’t wish to fight. Many couples can relate, yet when it comes to finances, organization is more than a preference—it’s a foundation.

Couple unpacking and organizing books

When Messiness Meets Money

Our differing backgrounds shaped our financial perspectives. She grew up in Cuba and worked as a nurse in a cancer hospital, witnessing life’s fragility. I am from New Jersey and advise clients over 90, focused on not outliving their money. These experiences shaped how we approach financial organization together.

Our Approach to Financial Organization

It all began with a spreadsheet we used while dating, tracking every expense daily. The goal was simple: determine a savings figure that allowed us to enjoy life while staying on track to meet long-term goals. While it was not always fun, it became essential after buying a house and planning a wedding.

Today, budgeting tools like Monarch Money or YNAB make this process easier. They integrate with bank accounts, track expenses, and allow collaboration with a spouse or partner. A budget is particularly helpful if cash flow feels tight, you’re saving less than 15% of your income, or preparing for a specific goal, like a home or wedding. Organization can also go a long way in protecting you from digital threats—clarity is key. 

Here are a few lessons we’ve learned along the way:

  • Auto-Escalate Savings and Spending: Many employers now automatically increase 401(k) contributions over time. If yours doesn’t, you can manually escalate contributions. This ensures you save consistently while also enjoying incremental lifestyle upgrades.
  • Separate Needs, Wants, and Wishes: Categorize spending to distinguish essential costs (mortgage, taxes) from discretionary items. This framework allows you to prioritize savings and manage spending without stress.
  • Understanding Good and Bad Expenses: Good expenses bring joy, like gifts for loved ones. Bad expenses, such as unexpected taxes or uninsured losses, highlight the importance of insurance coverage. Protecting against life’s uncertainties safeguards your financial plan.

Focus on the Finish Line: The Runner’s High of Financial Planning

As a runner, there is often a “runner’s high” that is achieved when passing someone who started the race running way too fast and is now gassed out.  Budgeting is about making slow and steady progress, being organized, and making decisions with complete information.  If you believe you are behind the curve from where you should be, don’t rely on your gut and forget shortcuts. Our finances—and our home—reflect a balance between order and flexibility. As our financial situation has improved, I am no longer tracking every expense every day and I guess I could afford to be messier with our finances, but would that mean spending more time looking through disorganized drawers and closets instead?  I think I’ll pass.  

Looking to organize your financial life?

Connect with us to discuss how smart budgeting and financial organization can help you achieve your goals and enjoy life with clarity.

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