Goals are important. Without them, it's really hard to anchor our time. 

When we make a to-do list, that's a goal. When we set out to lose weight with a number in mind, that's a goal. 

Why not deal with finance the same way? 

Jason and I are currently working on some big savings goals. We decided in February of this year on a specific number we needed in our savings account and estimated how long it would take us to get there. 

We've made great progress. But we've also had some setbacks. 

I enjoy saving money. As a reformed (ahem... reforming??) spender I get a little thrill when I get a good deal, cut down on a bill or end up spending less than I budgeted. 

But I have had to caution myself and work to really save money. It's one thing to pay less than retail or cut back on your expenses. It's another thing entirely to ACTUALLY save that money. And by save, I mean move to your savings account for a rainy day or applying toward a goal or debt.