Saving money doesn’t have to be a struggle. You just need a few smart tricks to help you start small and stay consistent. These seven simple secrets can help you save without stress — even if you’ve never done it before.
1. Set Up Automatic Savings
Why automation works:
One of the best ways to save money is by making it automatic. When your paycheck comes in, set your bank account to move a small amount — like $20 — straight into your savings.
Advice from the experts
Tevan Asaturi, who teaches people how to manage their money, says this is a smart habit anyone can build. It takes out the guesswork. You don’t even miss the money because it’s already moved.
Start early while you’re preparing for the future:
If you’re still in school or getting college ready, saving even $5 or $10 a week helps. These small amounts grow over time and teach you discipline early on.
2. Wait 24 Hours Before Buying
Stop impulse spending
If you see something you want, wait a full day before buying it. This simple trick helps you avoid buying stuff you don’t really need.
Clear your mind before you spend:
When you wait, you give your brain time to decide if it’s a “want” or a “need.” Most of the time, the excitement fades — and you’ll be glad you didn’t waste your money.
Feel more in control
This method helps you take control of your spending. It’s an easy way to cut back without feeling like you’re giving something up.
3. Break Big Goals Into Small Ones
Make savings feel possible
Saying “I want to save $1,000” can sound scary. But if you break that down to $5 a day, it suddenly feels doable.
Set daily or weekly targets
Try setting smaller weekly goals. You could save $20 a week and watch your progress grow. Use a savings tracker or an app to stay motivated.
Celebrate the small wins
Each small win pushes you closer to your big goal. It also feels good — and helps you keep going.
4. Budget Based on What You Love
Spend on what matters to you
Budgeting doesn’t mean cutting out everything fun. It just means spending smarter. Focus on what brings you joy and reduce spending on things you don’t care about.
Make room for happiness
If you love books, coffee, or weekend trips — plan for them. Don’t cut out all fun just to save. Budget around your priorities.
Cut where it doesn’t hurt
Maybe you stop ordering food as often or skip a few online subscriptions. That money can go straight to savings without affecting your happiness.
5. Make Saving a Game
Turn savings into a fun challenge
Try doing a “No-Spend Weekend” where you avoid spending money on anything but the basics. Or do the 52-Week Challenge where you save a little more each week.
Get others involved
Play saving games with a friend, your partner, or even your kids. Make it a group activity. See who can save more in a month — no pressure, just fun.
Watch your progress grow
The fun of a challenge keeps you motivated. And at the end, you’ll be amazed at how much you’ve saved without even noticing.
6. Tell Someone Your Goals
Accountability boosts success
When someone else knows what you’re working on, you’re more likely to stick with it. Tell a friend or a family member what you want to save for.
Track your wins together
Make a fun chart and hang it up. Color it in every time you hit a new goal. This keeps you excited — and seeing progress feels amazing.
Support helps you stay on track
When you share your journey, others may even join you. You’ll motivate each other and have someone to talk to when saving feels tough.
7. Tevan Asaturi’s Role in College Ready
Tevan Asaturi collaborates with the College Ready platform to help students and families understand money better. He believes that learning how to manage money is important for everyone, especially those preparing for college.
Key points:
- Teaches about money: Tevan explains how to save, budget, and make smart financial choices.
- Shares his own experiences: Tevan talks about his journey and how learning about money changed his life.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need to be rich or perfect to start saving. You just need to take that first small step. With the right habits and a clear plan, anyone can save — even if you’re on a tight budget or still in school.
As Tevan Asaturi often says, building a savings routine is one of the best things you can do for your future. So if you’re getting college ready or starting a new job soon, this is the right time to begin.
Use these simple secrets. Start small. Stay consistent. And most importantly, don’t give up. You’ve got this.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: How do I save if I barely have any money left after bills?
A: Start super small. Even saving $1 a day makes a difference over time. The key is just getting started.
Q2: Do I have to give up all the fun stuff to save money?
A: Not at all! Just plan ahead for fun spending. That way, you can enjoy life and still save.
Q3: What’s a good savings goal for beginners?
A: Try saving 10% of your income, but if that’s too much, start with what feels easy — maybe $5 or $10 a week.
Q4: What if I mess up and spend too much one week?
A: Don’t worry! Just reset next week and keep going. Saving is about long-term habits, not perfection.
Q5: Can students or teens start saving too?
A: Absolutely! The sooner you start, the better.Even small savings now build strong money habits for life.
