You cannot fix what you cannot see. But tracking your spending does not have to mean a spreadsheet you hate. The best system is the one you will actually use. Pick your way: a notebook, a notes app, or a simple list at the end of the day. Write down what left your pocket —

Saving feels hard when the amount is big. So make it tiny — and make it automatic. Pick an amount so small you barely notice it, and move it on payday, before you can spend it. Five dollars a payday is $130 a year. Ten dollars is $260. You will not miss $5 — but