How a Freeze Creates Better Spending Habits for ADHD

Ever get that sinking feeling when you look at your bank statement and wonder, “Where did all my money go?” Yeah, I’ve been there too.

Right now I’m doing three spending freezes. Sounds stressful but honestly, they all came about for one reason or another. Let me explain.

The first one is my Freezer Spending Freeze. Our freezer’s been acting up, so it’s the perfect excuse to use up everything in there before it goes bad. It’s a win-win: less waste and no more impulse buys in the frozen food aisle. Plus, defrosting the freezer is oddly satisfying, like clearing out the cobwebs in my mind.

Next, I’m taking a break from eating out. Okay, this one’s a bit loose—we’re only eating out once a day for weekend sports tournaments instead of every meal. I’m getting better at packing a cooler with snacks for the kids, and I was pretty proud of myself at the last baseball game, showing off my organized snack box.

The final freeze is on luxury spending. My son and I had some unexpected dental work, so I’m being the responsible adult (insert dramatic eye roll here) and putting any extra money towards the debt. No extra fancy vacations this year, but that’s okay. The goal is more important than the splurge, and my family’s barely noticed that I’m tightening my purse strings a bit.

So, if you’re like me and want to get a grip on your spending and make yourself use what you have in your house, I’ve got some tips to help you get started with your own spending freeze.

And don’t worry. I won’t overcomplicate it. These tips are super ADHD-friendly!

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When is a good time to do a spending freeze?

Sometimes, we need a break from buying all the things.

So a spending freeze is a great way to do just that—it means no spending on anything non-essential for a set period of time.

But when is the best time to go on a spending freeze?

Here are a few scenarios when you might want to do a spending freeze:

1. To Use Up What You Have

You know those things you bought with the best intentions, but they’re just gathering dust?

A spending freeze is your chance to use them.

It’s like shopping in your own home.

Dig out those forgotten craft supplies, try out those skincare samples, or finally eat all those canned goods.

You’ll be amazed at what you find when you really look around.

2. To Reset Spending Habits

If you’re noticing that the Amazon delivery person knows you by name, it might be time to hit pause on your spending.

A spending freeze helps you reset your spending habits.

It forces you to think twice before making impulse purchases and helps you get back to buying only what you really need.

3. To Build Savings

If you’re saving for something special, like a family vacation or a big purchase, a spending freeze can help you get there faster.

By cutting out all the little extras, you can watch your savings grow.

Plus, you’ll feel a real sense of accomplishment when you see that account balance rising.

4. To Pay Down Debt

Debt can feel like a heavy weight.

A spending freeze can help lighten the load.

By not spending on non-essentials, you can put that extra money toward paying off credit cards or loans.

It’s a good discipline toward having better financial freedom.

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What types of spending freezes can you do?

When you think of a spending freeze, you might imagine cutting out everything non-essential.

But there are actually a bunch of different ways to approach it.

Here are some specific types of spending freezes you can do to save money and build better habits:

1. Freezer Groceries Freeze

Ever open your freezer and think, “I have no idea what’s in here”?

A freezer grocery freeze is the perfect time to use up all those frozen veggies, meats, and leftovers.

No more buying extra—just plan meals around what you’ve already got in your freezer.

You’ll clear space and save money at the same time.

2. Pantry Groceries Freeze

This is similar to the freezer freeze, but it’s all about your pantry.

Instead of buying more canned goods, pasta, or rice, work through what you have.

Get creative with your meals, and you might discover a new favorite dish.

Plus, you’ll clear out those items that have been lurking in the back for way too long.

Got a bunch of random ingredients?

Plug them into ChatGPT and ask it to give you some meal ideas.

3. Clothes Freeze

If your closet is overflowing, it’s time for a clothes spending freeze.

No buying new clothes for a set period.

Instead, focus on mixing and matching what you have, rediscovering pieces you forgot about, or even organizing a clothes swap with friends.

It’s a great way to refresh your wardrobe without spending a dime.

4. Summer Sports Freeze

This summer we are taking off from all extra-curricular sports!

That means we’re going to have more time and MONEY! Woohoo!

I’m considering this “break” a spending freeze.

However, the money we usually pay towards our kids’ sports fees I’m going to keep paying to our savings account for next year.

There are always some unexpected expenses for school and sports so I’ll have this money already set aside.

5. Coffee Freeze

If you have a habit of hitting the coffee shop every day, a coffee spending freeze can make a big difference.

Get into the habit of making coffee at home again, and take it with you in a travel mug.

Not only will you save money, but you might also find you enjoy the ritual of making coffee at home.

I have very nostalgic childhood memories of the smell of coffee in the morning.

Now this doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite coffee shop forever.

Go every once in a while and it will become more like a treat than the norm.

6. Going Out to Eat Freeze

Eating out can be a budget killer.

With a going-out-to-eat freeze, you commit to cooking at home or packing lunches.

This one isn’t going to be easy especially if running through the drive-thru has become a normal occurrence. However, your wallet and your waistline will thank you.

This is where meal planning comes in handy

Make meal planning a part of your weekend reset routine so you are better prepared and less likely to eat out.

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What will you gain by doing a spending freeze?

A spending freeze isn’t just about saving money—it’s about shifting your mindset and breaking free from the cycle of clutter and overspending.

Here’s what you can gain by committing to a spending freeze:

1. Greater Awareness of Your Spending Habits

A spending freeze can be an eye-opener.

When you’re not constantly shopping, you start to notice just how much you are spending on impulse buys or things you didn’t really need.

This new awareness can help you make smarter choices in the future.

2. Become More Creative

When you’re not buying new things, you have to get creative with what you already have.

This can mean coming up with new recipes, finding different ways to use the same outfit, or creating fun activities for the family without spending a dime.

It’s a great way to flex your creativity and see things from a fresh perspective.

3. Sense of Accomplishment

Completing a spending freeze feels great!

It’s like finishing a challenging workout—you feel proud and empowered.

This sense of accomplishment can boost your confidence and motivate you to take on other challenges, whether it’s decluttering your home or setting up a new routine.

4. Greater Appreciation for What You Have

When you’re on a spending freeze, you start to really appreciate the things you already own.

That old sweater suddenly feels cozier, and the homemade dinner tastes even better.

This newfound gratitude can lead to a simpler, more fulfilling lifestyle.

5. More Motivation to Work on Other Goals

A spending freeze can kickstart your motivation.

Once you see how much you’re saving and how much more organized your life is becoming, you’ll be inspired to tackle other goals.

Maybe it’s decluttering your home, starting a new hobby, or even planning that dream vacation.

6. Reduce Your Stress Caused by Overspending and Having Too Much

Spending freezes can help reduce stress by cutting out the noise of constant buying and accumulating.

Without the pressure to keep up with the latest trends or fill your home with more stuff, you can focus on what really matters.

You’ll feel lighter, less stressed, and more in control of your life.

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How will a spending freeze help my ADHD?

A spending freeze might seem like a simple way to save money, but it can have a surprisingly positive impact on ADHD.

Here’s how it can help you manage ADHD-related challenges and create a more organized, stress-free life:

1. Reduces Decision Fatigue

For those with ADHD, making decisions can be exhausting.

A spending freeze simplifies things by reducing the number of choices you have to make.

Without the constant temptation to buy new stuff, you can focus on what you already have, giving your brain a break from decision overload.

2. Fosters Better Focus and Concentration

When you’re not distracted by new purchases or the clutter they create, it’s easier to focus on what really matters.

A spending freeze can help you clear out unnecessary items and streamline your environment, making it easier to concentrate on tasks and routines that keep your day on track.

3. Encourages Consistent Routines

Sticking to a spending freeze means creating new habits and routines around what you have.

This consistency can be a game-changer for ADHD, as it builds a sense of predictability and stability.

You can create systems that work for you, whether it’s meal planning with pantry items or organizing your wardrobe without buying more clothes.

4. Helps You Establish Clear Boundaries

ADHD can make it challenging to set limits, but a spending freeze creates clear boundaries around what you can and can’t buy.

This helps you practice saying “no” to impulse purchases, reinforcing self-control, and building confidence in your ability to stick to a plan.

5. Reduces Clutter and Overwhelm

Clutter can be a major source of overwhelm for those with ADHD.

A spending freeze can help you declutter by forcing you to use what you have and stop adding to the chaos.

As you clear out the excess, you’ll find it easier to stay organized and create a space that’s calm and manageable.

6. Increases Self-Awareness

By committing to a spending freeze, you gain insight into your spending patterns and triggers.

This self-awareness can be a powerful tool in managing ADHD.

You’ll start to recognize what prompts you to spend and how you can make better choices, leading to more mindful habits.

How do I ease my family into a spending freeze?

Easing your family into a spending freeze can feel like a challenge, especially if everyone is used to spending freely.

But with a little planning and communication, you can make it a smooth transition.

Here’s how to do it:

1. Explain the Goal and Why You’re Doing It

Start by having an open conversation with your family about the spending freeze.

Explain the reasons behind it, whether it’s to save money, reduce clutter, or work towards a specific goal.

Be honest about why it’s important and how it can benefit everyone.

When your family understands the purpose, they’re more likely to get on board.

2. Start Small and Make It a Regular Occurrence

Jumping into a full-on spending freeze might be too much too soon.

Instead, start with a smaller goal, like a weekend without spending or a specific category like eating out or buying clothes.

Once your family sees that it’s doable, you can gradually increase the length or scope of the freeze.

Making it a regular occurrence, like once a month, can also help it become part of your family’s routine.

Or you can choose to do a spending freeze like me and not even tell your family you’re doing it.

Just start small. They’ll get used to it.

3. Set the Example for Your Kids’ Future

Kids learn by watching their parents, so be sure to set a good example during the spending freeze.

Show them how you can have fun and be creative without spending money.

You can have family game nights, go for walks, or cook meals together.

This not only reinforces the spending freeze but also teaches them valuable lessons about money and resourcefulness.

Join The Accountability Club for Help Decluttering

If you need a positive community while you’re decluttering and downsizing your home and responsibilities, consider joining The Accountability Club.

It’s a space where you get affordable group coaching, share your journey, and stay accountable with your decluttering projects.

If group settings aren’t your thing and you need more hand-holding and personalized feedback, you can do one-on-one online coaching with me instead.

You’ll get my eyes on your home and a more tailored coaching experience.

I’d love to hear from you!

What is something you need to freeze your spending on right now?

Leave a comment below.