Money and motherhood – If I could sit down with my 20 year old self over a cup of coffee, I think I’d just shake my head and laugh a little. Because, back then I thought I had it all figured out. Budgeting felt boring, savings seemed optional, and motherhood? that felt like a far-off thing I’d figure out later, maybe after I’d done “all the things.”
But, life had different plans and honestly, I’m so glad it did.
Motherhood is hands down the most treasured, most precious thing that has ever happened to me. It’s not just that I became a mom, it’s that I became “HIS” mom and the second he arrived, my brain rewired itself. Like boom! instant shift. Everything I used to spend on without blinking, suddenly looked silly.
Before I had my son, I’d spend without thinking. I’d grab takeout instead of cooking, buy cute clothes I didn’t need, and treat myself “just because.” I didn’t track where my money was going, I figured it’d all work itself out. But, it didn’t always. Sometimes I’d end the month wondering where it all went… with not much to show for it except a credit card balance.
Now? I pause before every purchase. I ask myself: Do I really need this? Is it helping my family? Will this money be better off in my savings? Because these days, I’m thinking long-term. I think about my son’s future, his school, the opportunities I want him to have, and just that overall feeling of security.
I wish I’d started that mindset sooner.…
I remember one year in my twenties when I got a nice bonus at work, instead of saving it, I walked straight into the mall and bought a bunch of stuff I didn’t want. Half of it ended up unused. Looking back, I would’ve been so much better off putting that money into a savings account. But hey, we LIVE and LEARN.
I didn’t even have an emergency fund. I figured if something came up, I’d just figure it out later. Usually by leaning on credit. “It’s only $100,” I’d say. But those little charges added up. And later always came quicker than expected.
So, if I could give my younger self one piece of advice? It would be this: START CARING ABOUT YOUR MONEY NOW. Not someday, not “when you’re a mom” because, the habits you build early? They stick. And trust me, you’ll be so glad you have them when life gets busy and the stakes get higher.
That baby in your arms will make you want to do better in every way, and financial peace is part of that. You’ll want to give them the world, and you can, but it starts with giving yourself a solid foundation. Mama, if you are already in this season of motherhood? You still matter. You still deserve to feel calm when you check your bank account. You still deserve to plan for joy, not just survive on fumes.
You don’t have to be perfect with money. You don’t have to know it all. But, if you can start with a little awareness, a little intention and you’re already ahead.
Start small. Pause before buying. Build a little savings cushion. Track where your money goes. Trust yourself.
Because, motherhood will change everything, including how you see money and honestly that’s a beautiful thing. It’s not just about cutting back or budgeting better. It’s about building something real, something solid. A life that feels aligned with your values, full of love and security.
That to me, is the kind of wealth that matters most.
P.S. If you’re nodding along to all of this, I made something just for you!
It’s a free checklist called “Money Habits” – simple, encouraging, and totally doable (even on the busiest mom days).
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