Thu Aug 28 2025, by Tyler Gardner

SpendingBudgetingPersonal FinanceFinancial ManagementInvestment Strategy

Why I Don't Track My Spending (And Why It Works Better Than Any Budget)

I'm Tyler, a former financial advisor and portfolio manager. If this is helpful, check out my new podcast, Your Money Guide on the Side, by clicking the link in my bio.

1. Tracking Every Expense is Tedious

Tracking every expense is like counting calories by weighing lettuce—I’m going to give up by week three! You start lying to your spreadsheet just to make it easier.

2. Overspending from Lack of Limits

People don’t overspend because they lack tracking; they overspend because they lack limits. I use one simple system: automate my priorities so I can guilt-free spend the rest.

3. Knowing How Much to Spend

I already know exactly how much I can spend each month because I’ve taken care of the saving and investing first. That’s the system! No need to obsess over every dollar with random receipts put in color-coded folders on my refrigerator.

Conclusion

Give your money a job and let it clock in before you do. It’s all about simplifying your financial management!

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