6 Tips on How to Start Saving (...when you feel like there's nothing left to save)

Kristi Razo, MBA
Aug 8
3 min read

If you’ve ever looked at your bank account and thought, “There’s no way I can save right now,”—you’re not alone. Many high-earning professionals and hardworking individuals feel stuck in this cycle: bills, debt, groceries, maybe some fun spending… and then zero left for savings. But here’s the truth: you can start saving, even when it feels like you can’t.

Let’s talk about how.

1. Shift Your Mindset: Save First, Not Last

Most people save what's left over—but often, that means nothing gets saved at all. Flip the script: even if it’s just $5 a week, set that aside first. Automate it if you can. It’s not about the amount—it’s about building the habit and proving to yourself that saving is possible.

Pro tip: Think of saving as paying your future self first.

2. Know Where Your Money Is Going

If your money feels like it disappears every month, it’s time to track your spending. Use a budget app, spreadsheet, or even paper and pen to monitor every dollar for 30 days. You’ll likely find areas to trim—like:

Subscriptions you forgot about or don’t use
Takeout that adds up fast
Overbuying items that you already have but are maybe just displaced
Impulse Target runs or Amazon orders with a click 🙈

Finding just $50–100/month in overspending can be a game-changer.

3. Embrace the "Micro-Save"

When you're overwhelmed by the idea of saving $1,000 or building a 3-month emergency fund, start with a micro-goal. Small steps or changes and reap huge rewards. Try:

$1/day for 30 days
$20/week challenge
Saving all $5 bills or coin change

These small wins can build momentum and confidence. When you see your savings grow, your motivation will too!

4. Make It Invisible

Open a separate savings account—this can even be one at a different bank or online-only account so that you are not tempted to touch it, should you need that added security. Set up an automatic transfer each pay check so you don’t even “see” the money in your checking account.

Pro tip: Use nicknames for your savings goals (like New Car, Debt Escape, or Italy Summer Vacay) to keep it exciting and personal.

5. Celebrate Progress, Not Perfection

You don’t need to overhaul your entire life to start saving. Every little bit helps. The act of starting is more powerful than waiting until it feels perfect. Celebrate:

A no-spend day
Hitting a $50 milestone
Saying “no” to a purchase and transferring that amount to savings instead, even if its just a cup of coffee. It ALL counts!

6. Get Support if You’re Stuck

Sometimes, we’re too close to our own situation to see the path forward. That’s where a financial coach (like me!) can help. We’ll walk through your numbers without shame or judgment and build a customized, doable savings plan that works for your real life—not someone else’s highlight reel.