Detoxing the Shiny Stuff for 2026
Learn how to detox all the shiny stuff so you can head into 2026 with a stress-free financial plan.
We all do it at one time or another, add subscriptions or memberships because they look appealing and we are curious. Dining out or getting take-out because its easy, convenient and we are “on the go”. Impulsive purchases online because something is on a really good sale. Maybe even used those credit cards a little too freely and now you are just being able to afford the minimum payment each month.
Unused Subscriptions and Memberships
Review your bank account for recurring charges on streaming services, gym or business memberships and the real guilty culprit, those apps on your phone.
Cancel everything you do not use, only use a couple times, or do not actually need. This provide you with instant saving immediately.
Take-out and Dining Out
I get it, life is busy and you are driving all over for kid sports, activities, business meetings and so on. Pack some food, fill a thermos and skip the take-out. Or at least cut it down to a very minimum. If you do need take out, go pick it up instead of paying for delivery fees and tips. These extra costs of convenience add up very quickly. Try to keep eating out for special occasions and prepare meals at home. Not only will this keep money in your bank account but it is a healthier alternative.
On-The Go Purchases
Daily purchases like that morning coffee, or convenient mid day snacks cost alot more than people realize. Make a coffee to go, keep water bottles in the car and pack some handy snacks. That $5/day can add up real quick and cutting that drive-thru or convenience store trip out will surprisingly save hundreds of dollars annually.
Impulse Online Purchases
With the convenience of purchasing anything that you need online, this is definitely a hard habit to break. The next time you “add to cart” take a moment and ask yourself, is this a want or a need. Social media ads are there to attract your attention to purchase instantly, and usually these are “want” purchases.
Paying Credit Cards
Credit card debt is at an all time high in the economy today. It’s sometimes our only option to purchase food, or gas, or necessities. While getting those travel points is a feature on most credit cards, it usually results in a credit card spike that cannot be paid off in full when that statement arrives. Ideally you want to pay the credit card off in full, but sometimes that isn’t always possible. Setting up automatic payments avoids late fees and paying more than that minimum payment will lower interest rate charges.
In Summary
Everyone wants to start the New Year with a clean slate, so this holiday season give your bank account an audit. Really dive deep into where your spending your money. And if you need some adjustments with your mortgage, that is where I also can help you obtain your goals. There are options to help pay that debt off completely while still keeping the equity in your home and actually could result in lower mortgage payments.
