Since embracing mindfulness, I see a definite change in my money habits. I’d be lying if I said I’ve mastered the art of spending. Still, I have a healthier relationship with money than I used to.

Healthy money habits, and minimalism, I have learned, go hand in hand. For the last couple of years, I have been striving to improve my relationship with them. 

I began to approach money differently after I discovered YNAB. That is where things changed for me. 

YNAB (You Need a Budget) is a budgeting app, a money mindset, and a community. It is LIFE CHANGING, and I wholeheartedly believe in it. I wish I could twirl around in the streets singing about it; I love it that much. If you are notoriously bad with money (or even if you’re pretty good, but want to learn to save more efficiently!), keep reading.

What made YNAB stand out to me is their approach to debt. The YNAB way is only to pay the minimum on your credit cards until you have adequately fund your True Expenses.   They also encourage no feelings of guilt around how you spend your money. After all, it is your money; you do get to decided what to do with it. As long as you are giving every dollar a job, you are doing it right. 

When I first downloaded the YNAB app after a close friend told me her YNAB success story. I was utterly overwhelmed by it, so much so that I abandoned it after a month. But, after more failed attempts at keeping the balance of my bank account positive, I gave it one more try. I am proud to say I’ve been overdraft free since February of this year, and I even have managed to keep a small revolving balance in my account!

Learn from my mistakes, and before you begin your YNAB journey, take these steps:

1. Look at the website. Thoroughly. There you will learn the Four Rules of YNAB, get some fundamentals, and get an idea of what to expect. There are also a lot of great videos on various financial topics.
2. Join a Facebook Group. My favorite is YNAB+Minimalism. The groups are full of incredibly supportive people who have been where you are. I can’t tell you how many tips, tricks, and sound advice I’ve received about budgeting from the groups I joined! 
3. Listen to the podcast. The episodes are short and sweet, and they give you a good feel for what the YNAB lifestyle is.
4. Watch their YouTube Channel. Their videos are funny, informative, and motivating. 
5. Read the Book. I put this one last because, with all the resources above, it is not an end all be all. I read the book because I love books, but when it is all said and done, everything I needed, I got from the sources listed above. 

 You can be better with your money, and YNAB is the key! Welcome to the YNAB family, you’re going to love it!

I am in no way affiliated with YNAB. I am just a huge fan, and everything stated above is solely my opinion. But hey, Jesse Mecham, if this article ever floats your way, my dream job is to create content for YNAB!!!