When you think about self-care, you might picture bubble baths, long walks, or meditation. But there’s a form of self-care people don’t talk about as often: taking care of your money.
Before you roll your eyes, know that the kind of financial self-care we’re talking about isn’t about being perfect with your money. It’s about creating habits that help you feel safer, less stressed, and more in control. After all, money stress is real and can lead to physical symptoms like fatigue, sleep disturbances, and gastrointestinal issues, among other things. And, just like brushing your teeth or getting enough sleep, small financial self-care actions can make a big difference over time.
So, What Does Financial Self-Care Look Like?
Financial self-care means building habits that support your future, not sabotage it. It also means choosing to face your finances with compassion, not shame. As an everyday practice, financial self-care is about taking small, intentional steps to create a sense of control and security in your financial life. By prioritizing your financial well-being, you can reduce stress and cultivate a more balanced, empowered approach to money management.
The practice is different for everyone, but in general, financial self-care looks like these kinds of things:
1. Checking In With Your Money—Regularly
It’s tempting to avoid looking at your account when things are tight—but not knowing often feels worse. Take just five minutes a week to look over your account balances or spending. The simple act may help you feel more in control and less surprised.
Try this: Set a reminder once a week to check your balances through online banking. Call it your “Money Minute.”
2. Setting Boundaries Around Spending
Saying “no” to things that drain your wallet (and your energy) is an act of self-respect. Of course, that might mean skipping a night out you can’t afford. It also might mean deleting apps and unfollowing influencers who make you feel pressure to buy stuff.
Try this: Ask yourself: Is this spending aligned with what I really want right now—or just what I feel pressured to do?
3. Saving—Even Just a Little
Putting money aside, even just a few dollars, builds confidence and security. It’s not about the amount—it’s about showing yourself that your future is worth investing in.
Try this: Start with a goal of saving $5 a week. Watch it grow. Celebrate progress, not perfection.
4. Making a Plan (That You Can Actually Stick To)
A budget isn’t a punishment—it’s a kindness to your future self. A budget helps you spend in ways that match your values and goals. And it doesn’t have to be complicated.
Try this: Break your budget into three simple categories: Needs, Wants, and Savings. Adjust as needed—life isn’t one-size-fits-all.
5. Asking for Help Without Shame
You don’t have to figure everything out on your own. Financial self-care includes knowing when to ask for support, whether it’s talking to a credit union representative, a trusted friend, or a financial counselor.
Try this: Write down at least one money-related question you’ve been avoiding. Then ask someone who might be able to help.
Taking Care of Your Money = Taking Care of Yourself
Listen, you don’t have to have it all together. Seriously, you don’t. Everyone, everywhere, gets stressed about money at some point in their lives. But—whether your credit score is at the top or bottom of the scale—you deserve to feel safe, supported, and confident with your money. That’s why everyday financial self-care is about taking those small steps to reduce stress and create more peace in your life. And, if you get stuck, we’re here to help.
Want more financial wellness tips?
- Check out our post on the psychological impact of debt.
- Take a quiz to discover your budget personality.
- Learn how to protect your finances through mindfulness.