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The Surplus Episode: Tiny Savings, Big Impact

Updated: Jun 9


friends picnic to lower cost and increase savings

Spotify Episode Link

You can listen to the episode by clicking the link below:


Welcome to a special bonus episode from the Deeply Invested podcast! Today, we’re answering a question we hear all the time: “How can I save when I barely have anything left after paying bills?”


It's a totally valid question - and if you've ever felt like you don’t have “enough” to open a high-yield savings account (HYSA), you’re not alone. That hesitation is called analysis paralysis, and we’ve felt it too.


But here’s the truth: Saving $5 is not pointless. Saving $10 is not too small. Because saving is about building a habit - not just a balance.



Shift Your Mindset: Small Can Still Be Mighty


You don’t need a huge paycheck to start saving. What you do need is consistency, creativity, and a little patience. So let’s dive into six tiny-but-mighty ways to start saving, even if your budget is super tight.


1. Micro-Saving with Round-Ups


Apps like Acorns or round-up features in some bank accounts can save your spare change every time you buy something. Example: Buy a coffee for $3.50 → Round up to $4 → $0.50 goes to savings. It’s painless, automated, and surprisingly effective.


2. Split Your Direct Deposit


If your job offers direct deposit, set it up so a small portion - even $25 per paycheck - goes straight into savings. That’s $600+ saved in a year, with almost zero effort.


3. Do a 5-Day “No-Spend” Challenge


Challenge yourself to five days of no non-essential spending. Whatever you would have spent (on snacks, takeout, impulse buys), put that amount into your savings instead.


4. Cut One Expense That No Longer Brings You Joy


No need to go full minimalist. Just find one thing - a subscription, daily delivery fees, or an unused gym membership - and cancel it. Redirect that money toward your savings goal.


5. Negotiate or Downgrade One Bill


Try lowering just one monthly expense. This could mean:

  • Downgrading a streaming service (hello, ad-supported tiers!)

  • Calling your credit card provider to request a lower APR

  • Switching to a more budget-friendly phone or internet plan

Small tweaks here can mean big long-term savings.


6. Find a Tiny Income Boost


Have something to sell? Use sites like Poshmark, eBay, or Facebook Marketplace to offload it. Even a one-time $30 sale gives you a quick win. Want more ideas? We’ve got full episodes on side hustles - check out the show notes for links.


Celebrate Every Win - Big or Small


Saving $20 this week? That’s a win. Avoided an overdraft? Major win. Skipped an impulse buy and felt empowered? Huge win.

You’re not just saving - you’re building a foundation. And once the momentum starts, compound interest kicks in to do some heavy lifting.

Just imagine: This year, you might save $500. Next year? You might hit $750. And that’s how progress is made.


Final Thought: You Can Save - No Matter Your Income


Whether you’re working with a full-time paycheck or just side gigs, you can start building savings. And you don’t have to do it alone.


Byyeeeeeee



Thanks to our sponsor:



Thanks for tuning in and come back each week for a brand new episode! If you liked the episode, don’t forget to hit subscribe, rate & review!


Connect with us on Instagram @your.money.style


Visit our website for articles, resources, and more at www.liveyourmoneystyle.com



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