Turning Struggles into Wins: Your 5-Step Game Plan
Ever feel like you’re just trying to survive until the next paycheck? Like there’s no space to think about retirement, or buying a home, or even taking a real vacation?
You’re not alone.
A lot of people I work with feel this way—like they’re on a hamster wheel just trying to keep up with bills, car payments, and the random “surprises” life throws their way. And when you're stuck in that cycle, dreaming about the future can feel… well, kind of unrealistic.
But here’s what I’ve seen, time and time again: the small, faithful choices you make today? They’re what set you up for those big, exciting wins later.
Let’s talk about how to connect your right-now choices to your someday dreams.
Step 1: Know What You’re Working Toward
Picture this: You’re walking into a cozy little home that you own. Or watching your kid graduate college debt-free. Or taking a trip you saved for, guilt-free and stress-free.
Whatever that “someday” looks like for you—it matters. Write it down. Talk about it with your spouse or a friend. Don’t worry about the how just yet. Start with your why.
Your daily financial decisions will feel so much more purposeful when you know what you’re working toward.
Step 2: Get Curious About Your Spending
Okay, I know this one can feel intimidating—but stick with me. You don’t have to do a deep financial audit tonight. Just spend a little time looking back over the past month.
Ask yourself:
Where did my money go?
Did anything surprise me?
Are there spots where I’m leaking money without meaning to?
I once had a client realize they were spending over $300 a month on takeout—just because dinner felt too overwhelming after a long day. That realization helped them meal plan just two nights a week—and redirect that extra cash toward paying down a credit card.
Awareness creates options.
Step 3: Build a Plan That Works in the Real World
Now that you know where your money’s going, you can start building a plan that feels doable—not restrictive.
Focus on:
Covering the essentials (housing, food, transportation)
Building a small buffer—even $20 a week adds up fast
Planning for the irregular “whammies” (think birthdays, car maintenance, school fees)
And yes, make room for joy. I say this all the time, but if your budget doesn’t include space for the things that matter to you, it’s not going to work long-term.
Step 4: Turn Everyday Wins Into Long-Term Momentum
This is where it gets exciting.
Every time you pack lunch instead of eating out… every time you pause before hitting “add to cart”… every time you stick to your plan—you’re moving closer to your goals.
Think about it:
Saving just $25 a week = $1,300 in a year
Paying an extra $50/month on debt = way less interest and faster freedom
Skipping a $5 coffee 3x a week = $780/year (yes, really)
Little choices make a big impact over time. You’re not just managing your money—you’re creating a future you’ll be proud of.
Step 5: Keep Checking In
Things change. Life happens. That’s okay!
Revisit your goals. Celebrate your progress (even if it’s small). Adjust your plan when life shifts. What matters is that you stay engaged.
And if you ever feel stuck—ask for help. Talk to a friend, grab a guide, or reach out to someone (like me!) who can walk with you through it.
You’re Not Behind
If no one has told you this lately: You’re not behind. You’re not too late. You don’t have to do everything perfectly.
You just have to start. And then, keep going.
Every choice you make today is a brick in the foundation of your future. Even when it doesn’t feel like it.
Take 5 minutes today and write down one big goal (buying a house? taking a vacation? retiring early?) and one small step you can take this week to move toward it. Just one. Small wins add up.
You’ve got this! And I’m cheering you on the whole way.
