Financial Mindfulness isn’t about restricting your pleasures; it’s about understanding your spending patterns and making intentional choices every day. It isn’t about denying or depriving yourself the little joys in life either; rather, it’s a purposeful examination of your spending habits on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis. Take a moment to reflect: how often do you examine where your finances are going? Life can pass by in the blink of an eye—days become weeks, weeks morph into months, and suddenly a year has gone by, taking with it your hard-earned salary along with your sense of happiness and financial security.
Mindfulness is about taking a moment to consider the daily ritual many of us indulge in—the trip to the local coffee shop for that comforting morning or afternoon “pick-me-up” can significantly dent your budget. For instance, just a simple coffee or artisanal matcha latte—starting at about $6.37—adds up quickly. If you enjoy this little luxury on all 260 (approx. more or less when you consider your actual PTO, Sick days) working days in a year, you’re looking at an expense total of around $1,656 by year’s end. While treating yourself occasionally is perfectly fine, it shouldn’t come at the cost of living paycheck to paycheck, especially when you have the option to recreate that delightful beverage at home, healthier and budget-friendly.
Don’t get it wrong, you definitely should live a little. But! Not if it means living paycheck to paycheck. And not when you can easily make a healthier and equally tasty version of that drink at home.
To all the matcha aficionados out there, the recipes will inspire you to keep that $1,656 firmly in your wallet as they will satisfy your cravings without breaking the bank.
Delicious Healthy Matcha Recipe:
In a blender, add:
- Your preferred milk (for a creamier texture) or water (a lighter alternative
- Half a banana (or a whole one for a richer flavor)
- One teaspoon of honey if you have a sweet tooth
- A handful of ice cubes
- A scoop of 365 Matcha Powder (or your favorite quality matcha powder)
Wholesome Coffee Recipe:
- To elevate your morning beverage, grab your favorite mug and add in:
- A splash of milk or cream to enrich the flavor (preferably unsweetened)
- A scoop of your favorite collagen powder to enhance your health
- One teaspoon of honey for sweetness
- For an extra health boost, mix in supplements like Ovasital, for aiding blood sugar control throughout the day, or another supplement of choice.
Crafting these drinks not only satisfies your matcha or coffee habit but also brings you a step closer to achieving a life you’ve always aspired to. By preparing your beverages at home, you’ll enjoy better health—free from artificial flavorings—while gaining control over the amount of sugar you consume.
Moreover, think of the financial impact: those dollars can now be channeled toward something of personal significance. Perhaps you dream of the long-term goal of leaving your job to pursue a passion project or embark on a career change. Or maybe you wish to devote more time to your children instead of dashing back to work post-maternity leave. Picture the serene mornings of retirement where you wake up at your own pace, indulge in an extended morning routine, and leisurely make your way to Pilates, yoga, or a dance class.
On the flip side, consider short-term aspirations. Maybe it’s that long-awaited vacation to the idyllic shores of Turks and Caicos or a fun-filled girls’ trip to Bali or Thailand to celebrate a birthday milestone. If travel isn’t on your radar, perhaps you’ve been eyeing a stunning pair of diamond earrings and a matching necklace to add to your collection.
Maybe you’re thinking this amount is negligible. Maybe it is. Maybe the real savings can also come from packing your lunch to work every day. Or cutting back on dining out as often. Maybe it’s all of these. Whatever your choice of spending, ensure that it adds genuine value to your life. Be intentional with your spending and prioritize what truly enriches your life. When you align your financial choices with your values and passions, you’ll not only cultivate meaningful experiences and connections, but also create a life that resonates with joy and fulfillment. The point is to let each dollar contribute to your happiness and personal growth, guiding you toward what you genuinely treasure.