Jakarta, ThedailyID — Many people struggle to save money consistently. However, Japan has a popular budgeting method that helps people manage spending more effectively.
The method is called Kakeibo. Japanese journalist Makoto Hani first introduced it in 1904. Later, the method gained global popularity through books and personal finance communities.
Unlike modern budgeting apps, Kakeibo encourages people to write down income and expenses manually. The goal is to build stronger awareness of spending habits.
Here are six saving habits inspired by the Japanese method:
1. Record Every Source of Income
Start by writing down all monthly income. Include salaries, freelance earnings, bonuses, and other sources of money.
This habit helps people understand exactly how much money they have before planning expenses.
2. Save First Before Spending
The Kakeibo method encourages people to set aside savings first. After that, they can divide the remaining money into spending categories.
Common categories include basic needs, entertainment, education, and unexpected expenses.
3. Wait 24 Hours Before Buying Something
Impulse purchases often drain savings quickly. Therefore, many Japanese consumers wait at least one day before buying non-essential items.
This habit helps separate real needs from temporary wants.
4. Check Your Bank Balance Frequently
Regularly reviewing account balances helps people stay aware of their financial condition.
As a result, they can control spending more effectively and avoid overspending.
5. Keep a Reminder in Your Wallet
Some people place small notes inside their wallets. The reminder usually asks a simple question: “Do I really need this?”
The message encourages smarter spending decisions before making a purchase.
6. Use Cash More Often
Paying with cash makes spending feel more tangible. People become more aware of how much money leaves their hands.
Meanwhile, digital payments can sometimes encourage unnecessary purchases because transactions feel less noticeable.
Financial experts say the key to saving is consistency rather than income size. Small habits, repeated over time, can help build stronger financial discipline and larger savings.
