I have 5 kids, so unexpected costs always come up. To stay on budget, we don't spend any money for a week.

Tech Insider : Business
a woman looking at a reciept and a notebook
The author stops spending money for a week to save.

Daniel Balakov/Getty Images

Our 4 kids only participate in 1 after-school activity each. It helps us stay on budget and leaves room for family time.

Tech Insider : Sports, Business, Travel
A girl wearing a red shirt and white socks balances on a soccer ball on the side of a field.
The author said she limits her kids (not pictured) to participating in one after-school activity at a time.

Halfpoint Images/Getty Images

As a single mom, I can't afford to buy everything my son wants anymore. It has been an emotional turning point.

Tech Insider : Business, Sports
Ashley Archambault and her son standing in front of a christmas tree
The author (right) is struggling to afford her son's wants.

Courtesy of Ashley Archambault

I've worked in global banking for 25 years. These are the 6 most important pieces of financial advice I tell family and friends.

Tech Insider : Business
Racquel Oden speaking at an event

Photo courtesy of Racquel Oden

I'm 53 and have been job searching for 14 months. I'm part of the group applying, praying, hoping, and begging for a chance to work.

Tech Insider : Business
Kevin Hannegan
Kevin Hannegan

Kevin Hannegan

This 24-year-old Gen Zer just bought a $395K home with his fiancée. They had a strategy — and this key piece of advice.

Tech Insider : Economy, Economy, Business
Ryan Hemenway
Ryan Hemenway, 24, says limiting his rent costs has helped him save for a home.

Courtesy of Ryan Hemenway

I retired at 52 and only have enough money to be financially secure for the next year. I'm still happy with my decision

Tech Insider : Economy, Business, Technology
Walter Green standing outdoors with a blazer and red baseball cap.
Walter Green decided to retire early after both of his parents passed away.

Photo courtesy of Walter Green

Budgeting isn't for everyone, but 'intuitive spending' has its problems too

Tech Insider : Economy, Business
A woman going through her finances and making a budget
Finance pros often recommend budgeting, but some think it could use a "rebrand."

skynesher/Getty Images

I send money back home to my relatives abroad. I've lacked disposable income and struggled to save — saying no can be tough.

Tech Insider : Business, Travel
Photo collage featuring Aissatou Guisse, a hand holding an empty wallet, and a close up shot of clasped hands
Guisse once turned down a request for a $2,500 loan from a relative.

Photo courtesy of Aissatou Guisse; Getty Images; Alyssa Powell/BI

I saved $1,000 a month when I cut alcohol. The emotional and physical tax was just as expensive.

Tech Insider
Katie Butler at her college graduation holding her diploma
Katie Butler said that she went back to school to fund her drinking and partying lifestyle.

courtesy of Katie Butler

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