I’m a Money-Saving Expert with ADHD - Here are my mindful money-saving habits for 2025

ADHD makes me an impulsive spender, but as a Money-saving expert, I've developed mindful ways to save money.

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Sarah-Jane Outten
By
published
in How-to

As many head into another year of financial uncertainty, it’s important to consider ways to spend less and reduce anxiety about spending. Considering what you spend your hard-earned cash on instantly makes you feel more in control. 

I’m a Money Saving Expert and a mum running a home and juggling the costs of everyday life. In addition to this, I have ADHD, which often leads to impulsive actions (not ideal when on a budget!)  Over the last few years, I’ve developed some mindful spending habits that have reduced my outgoings, anxiety and stress. 

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 Set Financial Goals 

This can sound daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. It’s a good idea to separate short-term goals from long-term goals. This will help you prioritise your spending. A short-term goal is anything from a month to a year. It might be saving for furniture or a holiday. A long-term goal might include saving for a deposit on your first home. Understanding the bigger financial picture will help you see more clearly and make you more likely to achieve your goals.  

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 Delay Making a Purchase 

I find this habit the hardest to develop, but it makes a big difference once you do. Before making a purchase, take a moment to consider if it aligns with any of your goals, will you feel satisfied in the long term or just in the moment? If you shop online, favourite the item or save it in your basket for a few days. When I do this, I sometimes forget all about it, which means I probably never needed it. ADHD makes me an impulsive spender, which is tricky as a money-saving expert. Being able to delay impulsive purchases is a vital tool.  

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What Triggers Your Spending? 

Take a moment to think about all the times you have overspent. Was it related to your emotions? For me, an impulsive purchase gives me a temporary dopamine fix. Other triggers might include boredom, being in particular environments, or being with specific people. You don’t need to feel guilty about these triggers; most people have one or more. Understanding what your triggers are can help you gain control and spend less. 

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 Budget for Fun 

Whilst budgeting doesn’t sound fun, it can be. Once you have prioritised your budget for non-negotiables, set aside some budget for fun. No matter how much you can afford, it’s a good idea to have some cash you can splash. Whether it’s money treats, days out, coffee dates or a theatre trip - enjoy!  

Sarah-Jane Outten
Sarah-Jane Outten
PR & Beauty Editor

Hi, I’m SJ. I’m the Beauty Editor and PR Executive here at MyVoucherCodes. As a qualified make-up artist, I've been able to share my knowledge on all things beauty and skincare with our readers so they not only look good and feel great, but save money. As a mum of three, I understand the challenges that families face, and making budgets go further is something I feel passionately about. My research and recommendations help families of all sizes shop better allowing them to enjoy the little luxuries in life. My work has been featured in many publications including The Sun, The Mirror,  Netmums, and The Telegraph. 

Outside of MyVoucherCodes, I'm a writer and interviewer for pop culture magazines like Buzz Magazine. I've chatted to celebrities such as Strictly's Johannes Redebe and poet Kae Tempest. It's certainly one of the best parts of my job. Over the years I've built a portfolio of work that shows the diversity of my writing, which gives me a breadth of knowledge and experience that I apply to my work every day.