Most people think wealth is a matter of luck, a high salary, or being born into the right family. And sure, circumstances matter. They always have. Some people start three steps behind because of poverty, illness, layoffs, or a thousand things outside their control. But here’s the truth few want to admit: once money actually... Continue Reading →
The Dollar Hot Dog That Cost $1,000: Frugality, Opportunity Cost, and the Price of Overpaying
There’s a story I came across recently that stuck with me. The kind that doesn’t scream, but hums. It came from an article on the Dividend Growth Investor site, quoting something Christopher Davis once said about his grandfather, the legendary investor Shelby Davis. As a teenager, Christopher forgot his wallet one summer while working and... Continue Reading →
The Hidden Costs of Overspending: Focus and Mental Tax in Personal Finance
When it comes to managing your money, it’s easy to get sucked into the allure of "great deals" and temporary indulgences. Just like buying a bag of candy bars on sale, you may feel like you're getting a sweet deal. But, what if we told you that your financial progress could be just as vulnerable... Continue Reading →
Husky Student Recipes: Budget-Friendly Meals & Snacks for College Life
Being a student means juggling classes, studying, and managing a budget, all while trying to eat well. These recipes are my go-to meals as a Husky student at the University of Washington, the Tacoma campus. Still, they’re perfect for any student looking to save money while eating delicious, homemade food. Whether you're living off-campus or... Continue Reading →
What We Can Learn About Frugality from The Pursuit of Happyness (2006)
Ever noticed how some of the most profound financial lessons come not from textbooks but from real life, especially the messy, tough ones? Chris Gardner’s story in The Pursuit of Happyness isn’t just one of overcoming personal hardship; it’s a case study in financial grit, resilience, and the power of smart choices during a crisis.... Continue Reading →
Frugality vs. Cheapness: How to Tell the Difference and Why It Matters
Frugality and cheapness are two concepts that are often used interchangeably, but they couldn’t be more different when it comes to building long-term financial health. While both involve saving money, the methods and mindset behind each are vastly different. Understanding the key differences between being frugal and being cheap can make all the difference in... Continue Reading →
Frugal Millionaires: How Warren Buffett and Secret Investors Built Wealth by Living Simply
Most people assume that the wealthy live in lavish mansions, drive brand-new luxury cars, and spend without limits. But the truth is, many millionaires—especially self-made ones—live more like the average person than you’d expect. Warren Buffett, one of the richest men in the world, still lives in the same Omaha home he bought in 1958.... Continue Reading →
Why the Cheapest Option Isn’t Always the Most Frugal Choice
Growing up, there was a time when we had a bit of money. My dad was a pharmacist, but there were seven people in the home, so six figures didn’t stretch far, as you can imagine. We weren’t exactly hurting, but that changed when he got sick, and my mom went back to school to... Continue Reading →
Behavioral Finance & Frugality: What the Millionaire Next Door Knows That Others Don’t
Most people assume that millionaires drive luxury cars, live in giant houses, and spend like there’s no tomorrow. But the Millionaire Next Door type? They blend in. They live below their means, accumulate wealth quietly, and apply principles of behavioral finance to money decisions—sometimes without even realizing it. Here’s how secret millionaires use behavioral finance... Continue Reading →
Affordable Chinese Food Recipe for Broke College Students: A Budget-Friendly Meal
If you’re a broke college student craving Chinese food but don’t want to break the bank, this quick and easy homemade Chinese meal is the perfect solution. The teen and I were craving some Chinese food recently, but the closest restaurant charges $25 for a large serving of orange or sweet and sour chicken with... Continue Reading →
