Resetting Your Money Routine After Summer: Back-to-School, Back-to-Budget Series (Part 1 of 4)

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Sep 2, 2025

Summer fun can lead to a scary financial reality check. Discover how to reset your budget with five simple steps that tackle those pesky money leaks, like unused subscriptions. Learn about the One-Cut Challenge to save cash, and create realistic budgets that you'll actually stick to. The importance of establishing a consistent money routine shines through, helping you navigate expenses confidently as the holidays approach. With a judgment-free approach, you can regain control and prepare for fall and winter financial needs!

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INSIGHT

Seasonal Spending Is Normal

Seasonal spending patterns are normal and human, not proof of personal failure.
Recognize summer's spending rhythm so you can reset without shame.

ANECDOTE

Vacation Costs Often Exceed Budgets

Vacations rarely cost what you budget and include many small add-on expenses.
Those 'just this once' purchases and overpriced souvenirs add up quickly.

ANECDOTE

Summer Camps Add Hidden Costs

Summer camps carry hidden costs beyond the base fee like snacks, gear, and field trips.
Those extra expenses can add hundreds more per child than expected.

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Summer was fun—your bank account says otherwise.

In this kickoff to our Back-to-School, Back-to-Budget mini-series, Shari lays out a simple, no-shame plan to reset your budget after summer, rebuild your money routine, and set up a fall financial reset that actually sticks.

If camps, travel, iced lattes, and “just this once” dinners left you with a summer spending hangover, this episode gives you five practical moves to get back on track before holiday spending hits.

In this series, you’ll learn how to run a fast cash-flow audit, spot money leaks (hello, unused subscriptions), build realistic September budgets, and create fall financial containers for predictable expenses—so you walk into Q4 confident, not scrambling.

You’ll hear:

Why routines (not willpower) drive real financial confidence

The honest summer spending reality check—and how to stop the shame spiral
A step-by-step cash-flow review you can do in 30 minutes
The One-Cut Challenge to reclaim cash this week (subscription audit, anyone?)
How to build a realistic September budget you’ll actually follow
“Financial containers” for fall: back-to-school, holidays, travel, winter wear
The weekly money check-in that keeps you out of panic mode

You’ll walk away with:

A clear, judgment-free picture of where your money went this summer
One recurring expense canceled—and dollars redirected to what matters
A realistic September budget (not perfection—direction)
A simple system to prep for fall + holiday costs before they hit
A 15-minute weekly check-in ritual to stay accountable

This episode is perfect for: Anyone feeling behind after summer who wants a fresh start for fall, listeners prepping for holiday spending, and busy adults who need a budget reset they can keep up with.

Series note: This is Part 1 of 4. Next up: Your Fall Financial Checkup—cash flow, savings, debt, and the sneaky leaks draining your budget.

If this helped, share it with a friend who needs a post-summer money reset, follow the show so you never miss an episode, and come hang with me on Instagram @everyonestalkinmoney for weekly tips and prompts.

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