If building your savings feels hard right now, you’re not alone! Between rent or mortgage payments, groceries that cost more than they used to, and everything else real life throws your way, it can feel like saving is something you’ll get to later, when things are calmer, cheaper, or more predictable.
Here’s the good news: you don’t need a perfect plan. You don’t need a big lump sum, and you don’t need to wait! One of the simplest (and most effective) ways to start saving is also one of the smallest: automated deposits of $5–$25 at a time. It’s a small move that can quietly make a big difference.
Why “start small” actually works
A lot of financial advice focuses on big goals and big numbers. That can be motivating for some people, but for many of us, it just feels overwhelming. At Luminus Financial, we believe progress comes from real-life habits, not perfection.
Saving small amounts works because:
- It’s manageable, even when money is tight
- It doesn’t require constant willpower
- It builds confidence over time
- It fits into everyday life without stress
When saving feels doable, you’re more likely to stick with it. Consistency matters far more than the amount you start with.
The power of “pay yourself first”
You’ve probably heard the phrase “pay yourself first.” It sounds simple, but it’s powerful. Instead of waiting to see what’s left at the end of the month (often nothing), you set aside a small amount before you have a chance to spend it. That’s where automation comes in. By setting up an automatic transfer from your chequing account to your savings account, you:
- Remove the decision-making
- Avoid forgetting
- Save without thinking about it
It’s saving that happens quietly in the background, no spreadsheets required.
What $5–$25 at a time can really do
It might not sound like much, but small amounts add up faster than you think.
For example:
- $5 a week = about $260 in a year
- $10 a week = about $520 in a year
- $25 every payday = over $600 in a year (for biweekly pay)
More importantly, it builds a habit. Once saving becomes part of your routine, increasing the amount later feels much easier when and if it makes sense for you.
How to start when money feels tight
If you’re thinking, “I can’t afford to save right now,” that’s okay. Many people feel that way, and there’s no shame in it. Here are a few gentle ways to begin:
- Start with the smallest amount possible. Even $5 counts!
- Match it to your pay schedule. Weekly or payday transfers tend to work best.
- Choose a savings account that’s easy to access but separate. This helps reduce temptation.
- Think of it as a buffer, not a goal. Emergency cushion, future plans, or just peace of mind… it all matters.
Saving isn’t about depriving yourself. It’s about giving your future self a little breathing room.
Setting it up is easier than you think
At Luminus Financial, you can set up recurring transfers from your chequing account to your Luminus savings account in just a few steps. Once it’s set:
- Your savings grow automatically
- You don’t have to remember to move money
- You can adjust, pause, or increase it anytime
Life changes, and your savings plan can change with it.
One clear next step (that’s it)
You don’t need to overhaul your finances today.
Just choose one small amount ($5, $10, or $25) and automate it.
That’s your win. If you’d like help choosing the right savings account or setting up a recurring transfer, we’re here for you. Our team is always happy to walk through it with you, at your pace, without judgment. Saving doesn’t have to be complicated to be meaningful, and you don’t have to do it alone!
This content is for general information only and is not financial advice. Everyone’s situation is different, and we’re always here to help you explore what works best for you.
