Blog Post
The safety of money rules
We're all human: emotional, illogical, and sometimes self-sabotaging. Especially when it comes to money.
We are all emotional, impulsive, and occasionally very good at rationalizing purchases we later regret. That is why money rules can help.
Why Rules Work
Rules remove decision fatigue.
Instead of debating every purchase in real time, you decide once and follow the rule later when your willpower is lower.
A good rule creates a pause between "I want it" and "I bought it."
A Few Simple Examples
Eating out
Temptation: I spend too much on restaurants.
Rule: I eat out once a week.
Online shopping
Temptation: I buy things too quickly online.
Rule: Anything in my cart sits for 24 hours.
Charitable asks
Temptation: I say yes in the moment because I feel awkward.
Rule: I make donation decisions in January.
Why This Feels Easier
Rules give you language. They also help other people respect your boundaries because the choice is not being negotiated every time.
The Real Goal
You do not need a rule for everything. That would make life miserable.
You just need one or two good rules in the places where you know you are most likely to sabotage yourself.