Welcome to
The Ledger Lounge
Hey there, friend!
Whether you’re a spreadsheet skeptic or a budget (or a super spender) lover in recovery, you’ve just found your new favorite corner of the internet.
The Ledger Lounge is where we talk real money stuff—without the shame, stress, or sleep-inducing jargon.
You’ll find:
✨ Practical tools and gentle guidance
📊 Budgeting and bookkeeping tips
💬 Encouragement for wherever you’re at (even if it’s “literally just opened my bank app for the first time in weeks”)
At Balanced Books with Delaune, we believe clarity creates calm, and that everyone deserves a soft place to land when it comes to their finances.
So grab your drink of choice, get comfy, and come hang out in The Ledger Lounge.
I’m so glad you’re here.
5 Quick & Easy Ways to Save Money (That Actually Work)
Let’s be honest: most money-saving advice feels like it was written by someone who thinks "just stop buying lattes" is revolutionary.
I’m not here for that. I’m here for real, sustainable wins—not shame, guilt, or spreadsheets that make you want to cry.
Here are 5 quick ways to save money without overhauling your entire life:
Let’s be honest: most money-saving advice feels like it was written by someone who thinks "just stop buying lattes" is revolutionary. I’m not here for that. I need coffee; I get it, friend! I’m here for real, sustainable wins; not shame, guilt, or spreadsheets that make you want to cry.
Here are 5 quick ways to save money without overhauling your entire life:
1. Audit Your Subscriptions (~5 minutes)
We all do it—sign up for that “free trial” and forget about it until it’s drained $96 from your account six months later.
Do this:
Log into your bank account or credit card and scan for recurring charges. Cancel or pause anything you’re not using right now. You can always re-subscribe later.
Pro Tip: Set a 3-month calendar reminder for any new free trial you start.
2. Use a “No-Spend” Trigger Word
Every time you're about to impulse spend, say a trigger word like “pause” or “priorities” out loud. It feels silly, but it works.
This rewires your brain to think before you tap “buy now.”
Try it: “Pause. Do I want this more than my savings goal?”
3. Meal Plan Around What You Already Have
Before you make your grocery list, check your pantry. Seriously. You probably already have 2 meals hiding in your cabinet.
Use what you’ve got first, then fill in the gaps.
Pro Tip: Can’t think of anything? Use an AI site to help you. I love ChatGPT. They can help you think about possibilities you are missing out or hadn’t thought of!
Bonus: Save those $3 impulse buys for something you’ll actually eat.
4. Unfollow the Temptation
Social media ads are ruthless. If you keep buying things you saw on Instagram… unfollow the brand or mute the account.
Your bank account doesn't care how aesthetic the packaging is.
5. Round Up Your Purchases
Use a budgeting app or bank feature that rounds up every purchase and stashes the change into savings. It’s like digital couch-cushion money.
You won’t miss the 72 cents. But it adds up… fast.
The Real Secret?
Saving money isn’t about restriction, it’s about awareness and being intentional. So keep that $3 latte you enjoy if it brings you some peace. Pick a different area to look at instead.
It’s the little daily choices that bring financial peace.
Start with one of these tips, and keep showing up. Your future self will thank you.
Want personalized help? My Save Space subscription is designed for people just like you. No shame, no overwhelm; just gentle support to help you save, spend, and breathe easier.