Breaking the Paycheck-to-Paycheck Cycle

78% of Americans live paycheck to paycheck. Here's how to break the cycle.

Why It Happens

• Expenses rise with income (lifestyle creep)
• No buffer for unexpected costs
• Credit cards fill the gap
• Lack of visibility into spending

The One-Month Buffer Goal

Your first target: have next month's expenses saved before this month ends.

1. Calculate your monthly expenses
2. Save that amount
3. Live on last month's income

How to Get There

Track Every Expense

You can't fix what you can't see. Use Pocket Clear to log everything for one month.

Find Your Leaks

Where is money disappearing? Subscriptions, impulse buys, convenience fees?

Cut One Thing

Start with the easiest cut. Cancel that unused gym membership.

Save First

When you get paid, immediately transfer something to savings. Even $50.

It Gets Easier

Once you have a buffer, the stress drops. Unexpected expenses stop being emergencies.