Subtract to Grow: A Different Take on Resolutions

The new year invites fresh starts, but most resolutions just add more to an already packed life: lose weight, save more, get organized. 

This approach to a new year quickly feels heavy, which is why 80% of people give up on resolutions by Feb. 1st. (If you want to be in the 20% who keep going, check out my recent conversation with The Financial Planner)

The root of the word resolution comes from “resolvere,” meaning to loosen, undo, and release. What if this year was less about adding new “to dos” and more about letting go of what weighs you down - especially with money?

When we simplify our finances, we reduce decision fatigue and emotional clutter. Here are a few small “subtractions” that can create big relief:

• Unsubscribe from retail emails to curb impulse spending.
• Delete saved payment methods from your favorite online stores so you pause before you buy.
• Cancel unused subscriptions, apps, and memberships, and redirect that money toward your goals.
• Let go of one recurring social expense that doesn’t truly nourish you, like weekly drinks that you’ve outgrown.
• Consolidate the number of accounts you use so there's less to keep track of.

Monarch has truly made the biggest difference in simplifying my money. Thanks to the app I spend maybe 1 minute a day to manage/organize my finances. The rest of the time? I'm not feverishly checking my bank account or really even thinking about money. How's that for freedom?

Simplifying finances means more mental space for what you value most. Where can you take one action today to simplify your money? 

**Written by a real human, not AI**