4 Tiny Habits That Will Make You Feel Richer Without Costing a Penny

Cindy Lamothe
·3-min read
rawpixel / unsplash.com
rawpixel / unsplash.com

Not having a loaded bank account doesn’t mean you can’t feel richer. The good news? You can do so without it costing a penny.

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While that sounds laughable — there are tiny habits experts recommend that can make a big impact. Here are four habits you can start doing now to feel richer without costing a penny.

Reframe Your Financial Perspective

According to Shirley Mueller, finance expert and founder of VA Loans Texas, one of the most impactful ways to feel richer is to regularly practice gratitude for what you already have.

“Taking time to reflect on the value of your home, relationships, and even simple pleasures like a favorite meal or a walk in the park can shift your mindset,” said Mueller. “In my experience, this mental reframing makes people feel wealthier without spending a dime.”

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Organize Your Finances

One no-cost habit, Mueller recommends, is organizing your finances by reviewing your bank accounts, tracking spending or setting up an automatic savings plan.

“Knowing where your money is going and seeing even small progress toward goals often gives a sense of control and abundance,” she said.

Maximize What You Already Own

Another great way to feel wealthier is to make the most of the resources you have.

“Decluttering your space and rediscovering items you’ve forgotten about, like books, clothes, or gadgets, can feel like finding treasure,” said Mueller.

She said you can also use this opportunity to sell what you no longer need, putting a little extra cash in your pocket.

“Regularly maintaining things you already own, like your car or home, also extends their life and saves money in the long run, all while giving you a sense of financial well-being. Simple habits like these create both immediate and lasting rewards, leaving you with more appreciation for your lifestyle without additional spending.”

Explore Bartering Within Your Local Community Or Social Network

While bartering might sound old-fashioned, according to Chris Heerlein, certified financial planner and CEO of REAP Financial, it’s a practical and rewarding way to exchange goods, services, or skills that benefit both parties, without ever opening your wallet.

“Identify the skills, services, or items you have that others might value,” said Heerlein.

He believes this could be anything from tutoring, yard work, or babysitting, to unused items you no longer need but others might find useful.

“Then, look for opportunities to trade. Local Facebook groups, neighborhood apps, or even informal discussions with friends can be a great starting point.”

For example, he noted you might trade your expertise in organizing for a friend’s help with car repairs or swap homemade meals for pet-sitting services. “Bartering saves money and creates a sense of abundance and resourcefulness. It’s empowering to realize the value you can generate from what you already possess, whether it’s a skill, an item, or your time.”

These exchanges, he explained, also often build community connections and deepen relationships, which can make you feel emotionally richer as well.

“The secret to successful bartering is clear communication and fair exchanges. Both parties should feel they’ve received equal value, so it’s important to discuss expectations upfront,” said Heerlein.

Over time, he said these trades can offset costs that might otherwise strain your budget, leaving you with more financial breathing room and a tangible sense of wealth that goes beyond your bank balance.

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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 4 Tiny Habits That Will Make You Feel Richer Without Costing a Penny

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