Saving before spending is always the right idea.
“The plans of the diligent lead surely to abundance, but everyone who is hasty comes only to poverty.” Proverbs 21:5
We can’t spend all we have on wants and wishes, but what fun is life if we don’t spend some of what we have on something we value? What if you cut spending on everything possible, as low as you can reasonably go, but then SAVE as much as possible for the two or three things you value most? That way you indulge where it matters and are disciplined where it doesn’t.
For me: Minimize: I don’t need to spend hardly anything on clothes, toys, cars, or “things.” I just don’t care that much. Maximize: I like to spend on experiences—trips and great meals—and being generous.
What if we made it a game to save as much as possible for the “wants” that are most valuable. Other things can fall off, in proper place, when values are clear and goals are exciting.