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Realistic Ways to Save Money (Act Broke)

When I talk about “acting broke,” I’m not talking about deprivation. I’m talking about a mindset around money that quietly protects you, gives you built-in money saving tips, and helps you stay intentional so you can keep saving money as your income grows.

I use the term loosely. Acting broke is really the cheat code for not fumbling your finances while your income increases and for training yourself to avoid lifestyle creep.

Here are 14 things you can do:

1. Live Below Your Mental Pay Grade

If you were covering everything while taking home $65K and now you’re earning $85K, don’t start budgeting like you make $85K. Keep living like you’re still at $65K and build your lifestyle around that number.

The extra money automatically turns into savings instead of disappearing into upgrades you don’t need. This is one of the easiest saving tips to implement.

2. Give Your Lifestyle a Bump on a Delay

Every time your income goes up, don’t rush to upgrade something. Give yourself six to twelve months before making any big changes.

This gives you time to adjust to your new income instead of spending it right away.

You’ll be surprised how quickly that extra money piles up when you let it sit. The longer you hold off, the stronger your saving muscle becomes.

3. Make Splurges a Ritual, Not a Reflex

You don’t have to cut out every fun expense, but make them planned and intentional. So pick one day a month to treat yourself and really enjoy it.

Do this and the rest of the time it’s easier to say no guilt-free because you already planned your yeses. This is a simple way to stay in control and continue saving money.

4. Normalize Good Enough to Save Money

You don’t need to replace or upgrade things just because they are old. Rather, wait until they stop working – not when they stop being trendy. Acting broke means being content with good enough for now.

Once you develop this mindset, it protects you from chasing upgrades that don’t actually improve your life and helps you keep saving money.

(Related: Download your mindful spending Money Mindset Bullet Journal — it’s your personal spending coach). 

5. Keep Your Old Habits Alive

If you used to cook at home five nights a week when money was tight, don’t lose that habit now that you can afford more takeout.

Those habits that helped you stay afloat before will help you build stability now. You’ll realize just because you can afford convenience doesn’t mean you should rely on it.

6. Shop With Your Past Self in Mind

Before you buy something, ask yourself, “Would broke me buy this?”

If the answer is no, it might be an ego purchase and not a real need or want. Remembering your old self keeps things in perspective and helps you stay grounded no matter how much money you make.

7. Act Like Every Purchase Needs a Defense

Before spending on impulse, imagine having to explain the purchase to your most financially responsible friend.

If your explanation sounds weak, skip it. This simple trick helps you slow down, think about what is actually worth it, and avoid spending without reason.

8. Say No Like You’re Broke, Even When You’re Not

You don’t owe everyone a yes just because you can afford it.

Skip overpriced dinners, group trips you’re not excited about, and impulsive invites. Acting broke is knowing your money doesn’t have to go everywhere people invite it.

9. Stay Allergic to Debt to Save Money

Just because you can afford the payments doesn’t mean you should take on more debt.

Keep treating debt like it is still off-limits unless it is truly necessary. The less you owe, the more freedom you have, and it makes saving money easier.

10. Practice Quiet Success

You don’t have to prove that you are doing well. There is power in looking like you have less while your net worth says otherwise.

It gives you peace, privacy, and protection from comparison. People are also more willing to respect your financial boundaries when they don’t think you have it like that.

11. Keep Your Broke Routines That Save You Money

Some of your old broke habits are actually smart saving tips in disguise.

Acting broke isn’t about being cheap. It is about being aware of where your money goes. Packing snacks, refilling your water bottle, and checking clearance racks may seem small, but those choices add up and help you continue saving money.

12. Create Fake Limits

Even when you are comfortable, keep spending boundaries like you are still trying to make it.

Set weekly cash limits or transfer caps. This keeps your money organized and makes you think before you swipe. Limits are not about being broke. They are about discipline and consistent saving.

13. Avoid the Comfort Trap

Money can make life easier, but convenience can quietly drain your progress.

Buying back time is one perk of earning more, but you don’t have to outsource everything or buy your way out of every small inconvenience. Cooking your own meal or doing small repairs keeps your grit strong and your money safe.

Bottom line: At the end of the day, acting broke is not about pretending you don’t have money. It is about protecting your peace, staying intentional, and using small tips that help you focus on realistic ways to save money as your income grows.