Smarter Spending, Bigger Impact: The Truth About Your Spending Habits

Welcome (back!) to my revived LinkedIn newsletter!

Originally launched as Money’s Impact, this newsletter began as a platform to explore the profound ways money can shape our lives. It started strong, but as a busy startup founder, I found myself pulled in many directions. I shifted my focus to what founders do best—growing the startup. Along the way, I even wrote a fun finance book (with more on the way in 2025!).

For the past two years, this newsletter patiently sat on the sidelines. To my loyal subscribers—thank you for sticking around and supporting me. 💛

Now, it’s time for something new! With fresh ideas, new insights, and a renewed sense of purpose, I’m thrilled to reintroduce you to my newsletter, reimagined and rebranded.

Welcome to the first edition of Wealth Whispers! I’m so excited to share this journey with you as we explore fresh ideas to grow wealth, live with purpose, and make a difference. Dive in, join the conversation, and let’s make this a space where your money works harder for you—and the world around you. Let’s get started! 💡✨

What’s in Your Wallet? The Surprising Truth About Spending Habits

Black Friday and Cyber Monday kick off a season of spending that doesn’t end with the sales. As the holiday season approaches, we’re bombarded with deals, gift guides, and the pressure to make every celebration memorable. But as the shopping bags pile up, so do the financial and emotional costs.

Let’s unpack the psychology behind spending, explore strategies to stay financially savvy during this high-spending season, and challenge you with two important questions: Can you afford to buy cheap? Are your spending decisions aligned with your values?

The Psychology of Holiday Spending

From Cyber Monday to New Year’s, retailers use clever tactics to tug at our wallets. Emotional appeals like “show your love with the perfect gift” or the urgency of “last chance to save!” fuel spending habits that can leave us overspent and underwhelmed.

But the holiday season also provides an opportunity to rethink how we use our money—not just to shop but to make a lasting impact.

Can You Afford to Buy Cheap?

The holiday season often pushes us toward finding bargains, but buying cheap isn’t always the best financial—or ethical—choice:

1. Quality Over Quantity That budget item might cost less today, but if it doesn’t last, you’ll spend more replacing it in the long run. A well-made gift, while more expensive upfront, often brings more joy and utility over time.
2. The True Cost of Cheap Do you know how the product you’re buying was made? Cheap items often come at the expense of workers’ rights, environmental sustainability, or ethical practices. Every purchase sends a message—are you supporting companies that align with your values?
3. Missed Opportunities to Build Wealth Holiday spending can derail your financial goals if left unchecked. Allocating even a small portion of your holiday budget toward savings or investments can create a lasting benefit.

Spending Decisions Are Value Decisions

We often think of investment decisions as a reflection of our values, but spending is just as impactful. Every dollar spent this season is a vote for the kind of world you want to live in.

Ask yourself:

Does this company prioritize sustainability and ethical practices?

Are the gifts I’m buying meaningful and thoughtful, or am I giving in to pressure?

Can I reduce waste by opting for experiences or eco-friendly options?

How to Shop Smarter - This Holiday Season and Beyond

Whether you’re shopping for gifts, planning holiday meals, or treating yourself, here’s how to stay aligned with your financial goals and personal values:

1. Set a Holiday Budget Determine how much you’re willing to spend this season—not just on gifts but on travel, events, and other celebrations.
2. Shop with a Purpose Make a list of meaningful gifts in advance. Choose quality items or experiences that bring long-term value rather than last-minute fillers.
3. Support Value-Driven Brands Research companies with strong sustainability, ethical sourcing, and diversity practices. Use tools like ethical shopping apps to guide your choices.
4. Balance Spending with Saving For every dollar you spend this holiday season, set aside an equal amount for savings or investments. This habit ensures you don’t lose sight of your bigger financial picture.

Rethink What’s in Your Wallet

This holiday season, let’s redefine what it means to give. Instead of focusing on how much we can buy, let’s think about how we can spend intentionally—building relationships, supporting ethical companies, and staying on track with our financial goals.

Before you hit “Buy Now,” ask:

Is this purchase meaningful and aligned with my values?

Am I supporting businesses that promote sustainability and inclusivity?

How can I make this season about connection and purpose rather than consumption?

Leave a comment below and share one thoughtful, value-driven gift idea you’re giving this year—or how you’re planning to shop smarter and make a difference.

Let’s use this coming weeks to grow wealth, spread joy, and create lasting value for ourselves and others.

What do you think about your spending habits this holiday season? Are they helping you achieve your goals and reflect your values? Drop your thoughts in the comments, give this article a like if it sparked some reflection, and don’t forget to stay tuned—next week, we’ll dive into how to set meaningful financial goals for 2024! 🎯✨