Make Money Simple: A Minimalist Approach to Financial Planning

I recently appeared on Episode 255 of Kelly Foss’s "Millennial Minimalists" podcast to talk about making money simple.

Complex investment strategies and overwhelming financial advice are everywhere. But here's some clarity: the best approach is usually the simplest one. I joined the podcast to share how minimalist principles can also change how you think about money.

Just like Kelly teaches about decluttering with intention, building wealth starts with understanding your ‘why.’ We talked about how keeping things simple can actually make your financial life more effective.

Start With Your Why:

Before you do anything with money, ask yourself: What's your why?

Are you saving for a house? Want to feel less stressed about money? Planning for kids? Working toward financial independence?

Having a clear reason keeps you motivated when it gets hard. Without it, you're just moving money around with no real purpose.

3 Simple Steps for Your Money:

1. Pay Yourself First
When your paycheque hits, immediately move 10% to savings. Then spend what's left.
This works because you save before you have a chance to spend it. No complex budgets. No willpower required. Just automate it and forget about it.

2. Pick Your Debt Strategy
If you have debt, choose one approach:
Debt Avalanche: Pay minimums on everything, then attack the highest interest rate debt first. You'll save more money.
Debt Snowball: Pay minimums on everything, then attack the smallest balance first. You'll feel more motivated.
Pick the one that fits your personality. Both work if you stick with them.

3. Build an Emergency Fund
Save 3-6 months of expenses in a separate account. Start with $500 if that feels overwhelming.
This isn't just about money—it's about sleeping better at night. When emergencies happen (and they will), you'll have options instead of panic.

Why Simple Works

You don't need dozens of accounts, complicated investments, or fancy budgeting apps. You need clear goals, simple systems, and consistency.

This especially matters if you're dealing with student loans, high rent, and economic uncertainty. Focus on the basics instead of get-rich-quick schemes. Simple beats complex every time.

Start Your Financial Minimalism Journey Today

I encourage you to start simplifying your money management right now. Begin with your why, then implement the pay-yourself-first principle I discussed with Kelly. Even if it's just $10 or 5% of your income, start today. Small, consistent actions compound over time—just like the minimalist lifestyle Kelly has been teaching her audience for years.

Here's what I want you to remember: You don't need to be a financial expert to build wealth. As I tell all my clients, the most powerful money strategies are often the simplest ones.

Key Takeaways From My Conversation With Kelly

After our discussion on the Millennial Minimalists podcast, these are the main points I want you to focus on:

• Start with your why: Define your financial goals before making any money moves
• Automate 10% savings: Pay yourself first to avoid overspending temptation
• Choose your debt strategy: Pick avalanche (math-focused) or snowball (motivation-focused) method
• Build 3-6 months emergency fund: Financial security reduces stress and enables better decision-making

Want to hear our full conversation? Listen to Episode 255 "Make Money Simple with Harry Sale" on the Millennial Minimalists podcast wherever you get your podcasts. Kelly asked some fantastic questions that I think you'll find helpful.

Ready to take action on your finances? If you're looking for personalized guidance, I'd love to help you simplify your financial life and build the wealth you deserve. Book a meeting with me today: https://www.calendly.com/harry-sale