7 Money Habits That Stick (For Good!)

It’s February. 

Remember those goals you set (or wanted to set) back in January - like spending less, saving more, or finally getting on the same page with your spouse about money?  How’s that goin’ for ya?  Feeling some failure and shame?  You’re not alone.  You had really good intentions, but things just aren’t working for you.

So listen to this: most people don’t fail because they lack motivation. They fail because they don’t have a system for building habits that last.

I’ve been doing some research on the NCI Goal Setting System by Chase Hughes. This system taps into the psychology behind lasting behavior change, making it easier to follow through on the money habits that will get you where you want to go.  You may see me start to implement some of his recommendations in our coaching sessions.

But on your own, here’s how you can create and stick to habits that elevate your financial game (without feeling overwhelmed).

1. Get Crystal Clear on Your "Why"

Before setting a financial habit, ask yourself: Why does this matter to me? If you’re trying to stop using credit cards, what’s the real reason? Less stress? More financial freedom? A debt-free future? When your "why" is crystal clear, your commitment will be stronger—even when motivation fades.

2. Make It Stupidly Simple

One of the biggest mistakes people make is setting habits that require too much effort. The key? Start small and build momentum. Instead of saying, “I’ll track every dollar I spend every day,” try, “I’ll update my spending plan for two minutes each night.” Small wins add up!

3. Attach It to Something You Already Do

Your brain loves routines. If you attach a new habit to an existing one, it becomes easier to remember. Want to check in on your spending daily? Do it right after brushing your teeth or pouring your morning coffee. Stacking habits makes them stick!

4. Reduce Friction

If a habit feels like a hassle, you’ll avoid it. So, make it easy:

• Automate savings so you don’t have to think about it.

• Keep a “spending plan” shortcut on your phone’s home screen.

• Use cash instead of cards if swiping makes you overspend.

Small tweaks remove resistance and make following through effortless.

5. Create Accountability That Works for You

Some people thrive with external accountability (a money coach like me, a spouse, a friend). Others do better with self-accountability (a checklist, tracking progress with habit trackers (Click Here!). Find what keeps you committed and lean into it.

6. Rewire Your Mindset Around Money

Your beliefs shape your behaviors. If deep down you believe “I’ll never be good with money,” that mindset will sabotage your efforts. Instead, start replacing negative money beliefs with empowering ones: “I am learning to manage money well.” “I make smart financial choices.” Change how you think, and your actions will follow.

7. Celebrate Every Win

Too often, we only celebrate big milestones. But the key to lasting change? Acknowledging every step forward. Paid off a credit card? Amazing! Stuck to your spending plan for a week? That’s worth celebrating. Positive reinforcement keeps you going.

The bottom line? Building strong money habits isn’t about willpower—it’s about having a system that makes change easier. When you use these strategies, managing money stops feeling like a chore and starts feeling like second nature.

If you’re ready to create money habits that stick, ask me about my Goal-Setting Worksheet and take the first step toward a strong and stable financial future!