More peace of mind? How to make money matters simple and fun

Money and happiness. For some, it goes together effortlessly, for others it's a bit of a struggle. And let's be honest: money matters are usually not among the things that make you happy. Bills, receipts, savings goals, investing... it often feels like something you 'have to' do.

But what if we approach it differently? What if you use your finances to experience more peace, overview and happiness? The good news: it is possible. And it doesn't have to be complicated at all.

Small steps, big impact. That's what it's all about.

Start with the vibe, not the numbers

Many people think that financial overview starts with an Excel sheet full of formulas. But you don't have to be an accountant to get a grip on your money. It can actually be fun. Start with an atmosphere: how do you want your money to support your life?

Maybe you want more space for fun family outings, or you'd rather save for a creative dream. By starting with the "why", the "how" immediately feels less heavy.

Make it visual: a mood board, a savings card, or just a cheerful post-it with your goal on the fridge. That is not child's play, that is smart working with fun.

Create a money moment for yourself

Just like you make time for a cup of tea or a nice walk, you can also make time for your money. Call it your “financial self-care moment”.

Put on some relaxing music, grab a notebook or a nice planner, and take a moment to look at your income and expenses. What went well? What could be different? What do you want to try next month?

By doing this regularly, you stay in control – without it feeling like an obligation.

Give your money direction (and a little exercise)

If you can spare something, it is nice to give savings a purpose. Not just leave it 'for later', but really do something with it that suits you. Some people choose to let their savings grow carefully. Nowadays, this is possible in an accessible way, without having to be an expert right away.

For example, via a user-friendly platform such as finst.com/nl you can determine how much you deposit and keep track of everything clearly. That not only gives you a good feeling, but also the idea that your money is really doing something for you. On your terms, at your own pace.

Save without the pain

More control over your money does not mean that you can no longer do anything fun. On the contrary! It is about spending it on the things that make you happy.

Therefore, take a critical look at everything that is automatically debited from your account. Do you still have three streaming services while you only really use one? Is that old sports subscription still there? By making these kinds of small adjustments, you will have more room for things that do contribute to your happiness.

That ice cream on a terrace, a bunch of flowers, or a creative workshop: those are the expenses that give you energy.

Talk about it (yes, really)

Money remains a difficult subject for many people. But it helps so much if you dare to be open about it. With your partner, a good friend, or even with your children. By making money a topic of discussion, it becomes less charged.

Maybe you learn something from someone else, or you get confirmation that you are doing well. Money does not have to be taboo. It is simply a means – and you decide what you use it for.

Happiness lies in rest, and rest lies in overview

You don't need to have a ton in the bank to feel financially happy. What really works is overview. Knowing where you stand. Understanding what you're working towards. And giving yourself the space to work on that in your own way.

Whether it's with a savings goal in your agenda, a monthly money moment with yourself, or a first step in smart investing via Finst - you do it for yourself. And that makes it valuable.