Simple Money Lessons from Real Life (and Work)

A few years ago, I found myself staring at the grocery bill wondering how it got so high. That was the beginning of my journey to get smarter with money. Along the way, I picked up little tricks - some from my own trial and error, some from clients, and others from working with big suppliers across Canada. I thought I’d share these stories because depending on where you are in life - young parents, saving for a first home, or running your own business - different lessons might resonate.

Everyday savings that add up

Grocery shopping is a great place to start. Back when I audited large suppliers, I discovered something surprising: the best discounts and the freshest food often came on Thursdays and Fridays. With apps like Flipp and Flashfood, I started hunting deals on food close to expiry and learned to repurpose bulk items into multiple meals. Add loyalty programs like PC Optimum or Costco bulk buys, and you can easily cut grocery costs by 15 to 20%.

Another simple change: walking or taking transit more often. In Calgary, parking downtown can be as high as $15 for just a few hours - one of the most expensive in the country. Compare that to a $115 monthly transit pass or a $15 family day pass on weekends, and the savings start to look pretty attractive. Plus, the exercise doesn’t hurt.

For those dreaming of a first home

The rules have changed. Starting April 2024, the RRSP Home Buyers’ Plan jumped from $35,000 to $60,000. That means a couple can now withdraw up to $120,000 for a down payment. Yes, it has to be paid back, but it’s interest-free over 15 years - better than borrowing from a bank at today’s rates. Add the First Home Savings Account (FHSA) to the mix and suddenly the dream of owning a home feels more realistic.

Even before buying, building a small emergency fund - just 5 to 10% of your income - can protect you from the unexpected: a job loss, illness, or accident. It’s not easy, but even a little cushion makes a huge difference.

Parents know this one

When our kids were young, childcare was our biggest expense. If your household income is under $90k, check for subsidies - you may qualify. Look for registered programs under provincial regulations, because they’re often much cheaper long-term.

And don’t forget the RESP. It’s not tax-deductible like an RRSP, but the government matches a portion of what you contribute. Later, it can help with tuition, supplies, or even a first car for your child. Small deposits now grow into something meaningful.

Finding joy without overspending

Entertainment doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Tool libraries, public libraries (with free workshops, internet, and events), and even Calgary Dollars - a local currency that supports community businesses - are hidden gems. Parks, heritage spots, and community programs are low-cost ways to enjoy the city. Pack a sandwich, bring bug spray, and you’ve got yourself a day out.

Shared subscriptions are another easy win. Pooling streaming or service costs with a friend keeps the bills light.

A word on money “rules”

People love quoting the 50/30/20 rule - 50% needs, 30% wants, 20% savings. It sounds neat on paper, but in reality, not everyone can make it work. Sometimes you need a side hustle, sometimes a second job, and sometimes it’s just about adjusting expectations. What I’ve learned is this: financial stability isn’t about copying someone else’s formula, it’s about finding a rhythm that works for you. If you can balance well-being, mental health, and steady progress, the rest tends to follow.

For business owners

If you’re running your own business, the little details matter. I’ve seen countless owners miss out on tax savings simply because no one told them what to track. A $500 software renewal on a personal card, forgotten mileage logs, or unclaimed home-office expenses - it all adds up. One month you miss $30, another month $700, and suddenly you’ve lost $5,000 in deductions. That’s about $2,000 in extra tax you didn’t need to pay.

Cash flow forecasting, expense tracking, and proper write-offs aren’t glamorous, but they keep your business healthy and stress low. And through nonprofit boards and startup networks, we often connect business owners to referrals and resources that help them grow.

Final thoughts

This post doesn’t cover everything, but hopefully there’s a nugget or two you can use. More than anything, I’ve learned that knowledge only helps when we apply it. Keep a healthy mindset, stay open to learning, and remember - money is a tool, not the end goal.

If you found any of this useful, or if you have your own tips, please share them. The more we share, the more people benefit. Here’s to building stronger habits and better days ahead.