The economy is giving ghetto right now—and whether you blame Trump-era deregulation, inflation whiplash, or just vibes, one thing’s for sure: the girlies need to protect their coins ASAP. From rising rent to unpredictable job markets and grocery prices that feel like luxury purchases, it’s time to play smart with your money.
Here are 10 financial moves you can make to stay secure, glow up your bank account, and survive this economic mess with your edges and dignity intact.
1. Build (or Beef Up) That Emergency Fund
If you don’t have at least 3-6 months’ worth of expenses saved, now’s the time. Layoffs and surprise bills are popping up like jump scares, and you need a cushion.
Pro tip: Even $50 a week adds up. Set up auto-transfers and pretend the money doesn’t exist.
2. Keep Your Receipts, Literally and Figuratively
Track your spending so you know where your money’s actually going. That $9 matcha latte habit? Cute, but let’s be conscious.
Tool up: Use apps like Mint, YNAB, or even a good ol’ Excel sheet to track your financial behavior like the IRS might one day ask for it.
3. Cut Dead Weight Subscriptions
You don’t need 5 streaming platforms, 3 unused fitness apps, and a random astrology newsletter that charges $14.99 a month. Audit your recurring charges and snip, snip.
Hack: Use Truebill or Rocket Money to help cancel and manage subs.
4. Lock In a Side Hustle or Passive Income Stream
Now is not the time to rely on one paycheck. Whether it’s freelancing, flipping thrift finds, digital products, or affiliate marketing, build income streams that support your soft life.
Think: Skills you already have + the internet = $$$
5. Avoid Lifestyle Creep Like It’s Your Toxic Ex
Got a raise? Congrats! But don’t let your expenses rise with it. Keep your glow-up subtle and stash the extra coins.
Example: Your old car still works. You don’t need a G-Wagon. Yet.
6. Refinance, Renegotiate, Reclaim
High-interest credit card? See if you can transfer the balance to a 0% card. Rent going up? Negotiate or consider moving. Phone bill outrageous? Threaten to switch providers. Closed mouths don’t get discounts.
Channel: Your inner lawyer + petty queen.
7. Stay Stocked with Pantry Staples
Food prices are wild, so build a small pantry of essentials (rice, beans, pasta, frozen veggies) so you’re not Uber Eats-ing during every “what’s for dinner?” panic.
Bonus: Meal prepping saves both money and brain cells.
8. Keep Your Resume, LinkedIn, and Portfolio READY
Even if you love your job, keep your digital brand tight. Opportunities (and layoffs) happen fast, and you want to be the one who’s already prepared.
Add this to your planner: 30-minute monthly glow-up for your professional life.
9. Don’t Stop Investing—Just Be Smarter About It
Yes, the market is a hot mess. But long-term investing is still one of the best ways to build wealth. Focus on index funds, dollar-cost averaging, and don’t panic sell.
Use: Apps like Fidelity, Vanguard, or even Acorns for low-key investing.
10. Learn to Say “No” Without Explaining Yourself
You don’t have to go to every birthday dinner, group trip, or random brunch just because you were invited. Protecting your finances is self-care, not selfish.
Mantra: “Not in my budget right now, but let’s catch up soon!”
Final Thoughts: Keep It Cute AND Smart
Whether you’re saving for a house, fighting off credit card debt, or just trying not to cry in Trader Joe’s, financial survival is the name of the game right now. The economy might be wild, but your financial strategy doesn’t have to be.
So tell me—what money moves are you making to stay ahead of the mess? Drop your best tips (or financial icks) in the comments!
