06/27/2026
A financial journal is one of the best tools you can have to stay financially organized.
My financial journaling journey began in July 2006, and I've been consistent ever since. Every month, I write down my monthly, seasonal, and annual bills and expenses. As each bill clears my account, I check it off. It's a simple system, but it works for me.
My journals has been with me when I lived in Virginia, North Carolina, South Carolina, and even while I was deployed in Afghanistan.
One thing I've learned over the years is this: don't rely on your memory. Life gets busy, and your mind will play tricks on you. Writing everything down helps prevent missed payments, late fees, and unnecessary stress.
My journal has also helped me create a plan to pay off debt, track my financial progress, and celebrate how far I've come. When you can actually see your numbers on paper, it's much easier to make wise financial decisions.
I also transfer everything into an Excel spreadsheet for additional tracking, but there's something about putting pen to paper that keeps me focused. Simple has always worked best for me.
As I approach 20 years of financial journaling in July 2026, I can't recommend this habit enough. You don't have to create the perfect system, you just have to start.
Imagine where you could be if you committed to this for the next 2, 5, 10, 15, or even 20 years. Small, consistent habits produce big results.
Your financial future isn't built in a day, it is built one journal entry, one payment, and one wise decision at a time.
"With God, all things are possible." Matthew 19:26