Strict envelope system vs. tracking apps - which actually saves more?

I used to swear by cash envelopes for groceries and fun money, but after 6 months of Mint tracking everything automatically, I'm not sure the old way was better. Did switching to an app actually help you cut spending, or did it just make you more aware?

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2 Comments

thomas_brown3mo ago

Honestly feels like people overthink this stuff way too much. Both methods work if you actually stick with them, but an app isn't going to magically fix bad habits. Mint just shows you where your money went after you already spent it, envelopes stop you before you spend it. Big difference. The real question is why anyone needs a whole system instead of just having some self control. Maybe try not buying stuff you don't need and see how that goes first.

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ruby_murphy3mo ago

But is self control really something you can just "have" or is it a skill people need to build with tools that match how their brain works? I've seen plenty of people with plenty of willpower still mess up because they rely on memory alone and life gets busy. An envelope system gives a physical reminder that an app just can't, don't you think that matters more than just telling someone to try harder?

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