Financial Self-Care: Andreas Jones on Building Wealth and Reducing Money Stress

Andreas Jones is a leading voice in personal finance and frugal living. As the founder of KindaFrugal.com, he has helped countless individuals take control of their finances through smart money habits. He is also the author of Financial Dignity and the creator of the Well and Wealthy newsletter. Today, he shares his insights on financial self-care—why it’s essential and how it can improve not just your bank account but your overall well-being.

Thank you for joining us today, Andreas! Many people think of self-care as things like meditation or spa days, but you emphasize financial self-care. Why is this important?

Andreas Jones: Thanks for having me! Financial self-care is crucial because money impacts every aspect of our lives—our stress levels, relationships, future security, and even our mental health. Many people avoid thinking about their finances because it feels overwhelming, but neglecting money matters only makes things worse.

Just like physical or mental self-care, financial self-care is about taking proactive steps to improve your financial health. It’s about making intentional choices that reduce stress, build security, and give you peace of mind.

What are some simple financial self-care habits people can start practicing daily or weekly?

Andreas Jones: Small, consistent habits can make a huge difference. Here are a few easy ones:

1. Check your accounts regularly – Spend a few minutes each morning reviewing your bank balance and recent transactions. Awareness is key.
2. Set a daily spending intention – Before you buy anything, ask yourself: “Is this necessary? Does this align with my financial goals?”
3. Schedule a weekly money check-in – Pick a time each week to review your budget, track expenses, and plan upcoming purchases.
4. Unsubscribe from temptation – If marketing emails or social media ads lead you to spend impulsively, unfollow or unsubscribe.
5. Express gratitude for what you have – Shifting your mindset to appreciate your current financial situation can help curb the urge to spend unnecessarily.

Financial stress is a big issue for many people. What are some effective ways to reduce anxiety around money?

Andreas Jones: The first step is to face your finances head-on—stress often comes from uncertainty or avoidance. Here’s how to ease financial anxiety:

• Create a financial plan – Even a simple plan gives you a sense of control and direction.
• Automate bills and savings – This reduces the mental load of remembering due dates and ensures consistency.
• Build an emergency fund – Knowing you have a financial cushion reduces stress when unexpected expenses arise.
• Focus on what you can control – Instead of worrying about the economy, focus on your spending, saving, and earning habits.
• Talk about money – Many people feel alone in their struggles. Talking to a financial coach, friend, or family member can provide support and perspective.

Some people see budgeting as restrictive. How can they shift their mindset to view it as an act of self-care?

Andreas Jones: Budgeting isn’t about depriving yourself—it’s about giving yourself financial freedom. When you create a budget, you’re deciding how to use your money in a way that aligns with your values and goals.

Think of it like meal planning. You wouldn’t eat random foods all day without considering your health, right? Budgeting is the same—you’re making conscious choices about where your money goes. Once people realize that a budget is a tool for empowerment, not a punishment, they start to embrace it.

Beyond saving and budgeting, what are some ways people can invest in their long-term financial well-being?

Andreas Jones: Investing in yourself is one of the best financial decisions you can make. Here are some great ways to do that:

1. Increase your earning potential – Take a course, learn a new skill, or pursue certifications that can help you earn more.
2. Prioritize your health – Medical bills can be a huge financial burden. Preventative care, like eating well and exercising, can save you money in the long run.
3. Build strong financial boundaries – Learn to say no to unnecessary spending, whether it’s social pressure or lifestyle inflation.
4. Educate yourself about personal finance – The more you know, the better financial decisions you’ll make. Read books, listen to finance podcasts, and follow reputable money experts.
5. Create multiple income streams – Relying on a single income source can be risky. Explore side hustles or investments that can generate additional revenue.

Many people struggle with impulse spending or living paycheck to paycheck. How can they break these cycles?

Andreas Jones: Breaking bad money habits starts with awareness and replacement behaviors. Here’s a strategy that works:

• Identify your triggers – Do you shop when you’re stressed? Do you overspend when you’re with friends? Recognizing patterns is the first step.
• Replace spending with healthier habits – If shopping is your stress relief, try exercising, journaling, or another non-costly activity instead.
• Use the 48-hour rule – Before making a non-essential purchase, wait 48 hours. If you still want it after that time, consider buying it.
• Set financial goals that excite you – When you have a compelling reason to save (a dream vacation, early retirement, a home), it’s easier to resist temptation.

You often talk about the importance of financial gratitude. How does this help with money management?

Andreas Jones: Gratitude shifts your mindset from scarcity to abundance. When you focus on what you already have—whether it’s a roof over your head, food on the table, or a stable income—you’re less likely to feel deprived or chase unnecessary purchases.

Gratitude also helps reduce financial comparison. Social media makes it easy to feel like we’re “behind” compared to others, but when you appreciate your own journey, you stop measuring your success by someone else’s standards.

For someone just starting to prioritize financial self-care, what’s one action they can take today?

Andreas Jones: Start with one small, positive financial action today. That could be:

• Checking your bank account balance
• Transferring $10 into savings
• Canceling an unused subscription
• Writing down a financial goal for the next 30 days

The key is to take one step at a time. Small, consistent efforts will compound into financial well-being over time.

You can find me at www.WellandWealthy.org, www.KindaFrugal.com, and www.Instagram.com/kindafrugal.