Ever find yourself dreaming of a lifestyle upgrade that seems just out of reach? We’re here to tell you: It’s not only possible, it’s entirely doable—and we’re excited to guide you every step of the way. No, we’re not talking private jets and caviar dreams. We’re talking about finding joy and luxury in the things that matter most to you, without breaking the bank. Let’s redefine “bougie” on your terms, focusing on what lights up your life and makes you feel fabulous, guilt-free.
1. Choose Your Bougie Battles
Pinpoint the aspects of your life where you crave a touch of bougie. It might be organic foods, a serene home space, or family vacations. Identify your non-negotiables and plan to budget extra there. You’ll also, by default, decide the areas in your life and budget where you don’t value being bougie such as eating out, cable bills and other examples.
2. Credit? No, Thank You
We’re breaking up with credit card debt. Our mantra: If we can’t pay cash, we’ll pass. It’s all about living within our means but making those means feel luxurious. You make too much money to be relying on credit cards. You can afford to pay cash! It’s all about figuring out that budget!
3. Bill Optimization: Your Wallet’s BFF
Lower those bills without sacrificing quality. It’s about being a smart consumer, not a less fortunate one. Regularly review and re-quote your subscriptions and services to fit your actual needs and desires.
Listen Instead of Reading:
234 | 12 Rules to Live Bougie on a Budget: Balancing the Lifestyle You Want With Your Financial Goals – Financial Coaching for Women: How To Budget, Manage Money, Pay Off Debt, Save Money, Paycheck Plans
4. Awareness is Key
No more avoiding bank statements. Being fully aware of your financial state empowers you to make changes that align with your bougie-on-a-budget lifestyle. Knowledge really is power. Whereas before you might’ve kept your head in the sand, being bougie on a budget means owning your finances and knowing exactly what’s going on.
5. Spend with Intention
Mindless spending? Not in our house. Every dollar you now spend is guilt-free and aligned with your values and your lifestyle– ON PURPOSE!
6. Savor the Savings
Welcome to the next level of adulting where you get more excited about saving money than you do spending money. When you’re bougie on a budget, you watch your savings buckets grow for things that truly matter.
7. Designate Those Dollars
Use multiple bank accounts to organize your finances. Each account has a purpose, making it easier to see where your money’s going and how it’s working for you.
8. Mastering the Art of ‘No’
Learning to say no to what doesn’t fit into your bougie vision is empowering. It means you’re in control and making choices that benefit your future. No to eating out today means yes to that vacation to Lake Tahoe this summer.
9. …And Embracing ‘Yes’
Just as powerful as no, a well-placed yes can bring incredible joy. Say yes to experiences and purchases that align with your values and bougie goals. Get used to the idea that you can say yes because you have a plan, you’re not spending frivolously and you’re freeing up money in your budget by paying down debt.
10. Family Finance Adventures
Turn budget talks into fun, engaging family adventures. Share goals, celebrate wins, and plan for the future together. Money talk no longer needs to be negative. Instead, it’s fun and exciting!
11. Be Your Own Bank
Aim to save for what you want so you can “borrow” from yourself when needed, interest-free. This self-reliance brings a sense of peace and empowerment. You no longer ask creditors permission for the things you want in life.
12. Generosity Glows
One of the most bougie feelings? Being able to give generously because you’ve managed your money well. It’s a joy that enriches not just the receiver, but you as well. Dave Ramsey says, “Giving is the most fun you’ll ever have with money.”
Embrace Your Homework:
- Craft a Bougie Vision List: What are your top five must-have bougie experiences or items? Write them down.
- Audit Your Spending: Review the last 90 days of bank statements. Where have you been spending? You’ll be amazed at what you learn about your spending habits. Then you can decide how you WANT to be spending.
- Get On A Budget: Use our One Page Budget Template or our full Signature Budget Template that encompasses our full Smart Money System.
- Set Up Savings Buckets: Even if you can’t fully fund them, go ahead and start. Open the account, rename it and put $25 in there. Then, based on your budget, if you can contribute even just a little every paycheck, you’re going to feel amazing. Examples are Christmas, Travel, Kids’ Sports, Glam Up, etc.
Let’s celebrate each step towards embracing a bougie-on-a-budget lifestyle that’s rich in experiences, smart in spending, and generous in spirit. Here’s to creating a life you love, filled with the kind of bougie moments that truly matter. Cheers to living your best life, one savvy decision at a time! 🌟
Book Your Free Call Now!
We are excited to create the time & space to talk to you about your current money situation. This is a free, no-obligation call where we can answer questions you may have and maybe find some quick wins for your budget.
What do you have to lose?