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After tallying up our spending for 2025, I’m in danger of losing my frugality blackbelt.
Now, it’s not that crazy.
But for someone who was a long-time optimiser, it certainly feels like lots of unnecessary money-spraying going on.
In this week’s article, you’ll see the full breakdown of every category. We’ll look at what’s changed, and how it compares to previous years.
I also share a few important lessons on how I’m thinking about money and spending as our situation evolves.
I hope you enjoy the observations and perspective shifts.
Read: Strong Money Household Spending 2025
STRONG MONEY PODCAST
Most people urge you to pay off your mortgage faster.
But there are multiple ways you can go about it. My new podcast breaks down 5 strategies to ensure you end up with a debt-free home by the time you retire.
I also talk about a weird middle ground to avoid, and why some of you might not want to pay off your debt.
They all work, it’s just about finding the one that suits you best.
And no, it’s not lame tips like ‘use an interest-free credit card, or pay weekly’ – I mean big strategies that actually move the needle.
Listen here on Spotify, Apple, or on the website
Read the article version here
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AUSSIE FIRE PODCAST
At this point, everyone knows basically how to reach financial independence.
But what matters even more, that doesn’t get discussed a lot, is how to live through a GFC when you’re reliant on your portfolio.
In the latest Aussie FIRE pod, Hayden and I unpack a bunch of strategies for weathering the storm. Use these properly and it will guarantee you never run out of money.
Listen now on Spotify and Apple
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THOUGHTS OF THE WEEK
The goal is never really more money. The goal is to live as you were meant to – a self-directed human, choosing your own adventure. The path is simple: Turn effort into income. Turn income into assets. Turn assets into freedom.
You get two choices with your money: Spend it once and it’s gone forever. Invest it once and it pays you forever.
You need to find things you enjoy doing for reasons other than money. Because once your investments are doing the heavy lifting, your pay cheque slowly loses its power as a motivator. What’s left needs to be worth doing on its own.
STRONG MONEY MEETUP
Time for another little get together.
Last one was at the pub. This one is back at the cafe.
Date: Sunday, 17th May
Time: 9am
Location: Koorak Cafe, Kings Park
As usual, grab a cuppa or BYO and we’ll meet outside the cafe on the grassed area.
Come say hello, chat with like-minded people, and if you want, I’ll even sign your book. Look forward to seeing you there!
