If you’re 55 or older, stretching your nest egg isn’t just about cutting costs; it’s about making your money work in ways that reflect your values, priorities, and lifestyle. The goal isn’t to pinch pennies. It’s to feel confident, clear, and free to enjoy everything you’ve worked hard to build.
That’s the perspective Courtney Cardin, co-founder of Aura Finance, brings to the table. In a recent conversation with ZestYears, she shared empowering tips to help you reduce financial stress, uncover hidden savings, and plan for a vibrant, joy-filled future. Whether you’re already retired or preparing for your next chapter, these smart money moves are designed to help you feel more in control and more aligned with what matters most.
“The smartest money move isn’t cutting back, it’s getting clear. When you know what you have and what you value, your money works harder for you.”
Shift From Scarcity to Clarity
“Most financial stress at this stage isn’t caused by scarcity, it’s caused by uncertainty,” says Cardin. One of the most powerful steps you can take is to know your money. That means getting a full picture of:
- What you own
- What you owe
- What you spend
- And what you truly value
This kind of clarity, Cardin says, is an underrated form of self-care. It starts with understanding your money personality: your beliefs, habits, and emotional triggers around money. Once you understand how you’re wired, you can work with your money instead of against it.
Declutter Your Finances
Like your garage or a junk drawer, your finances can accumulate clutter over the years.
“Cutting out legacy expenses, unused subscriptions, duplicate insurance, sneaky fees, can free up cash flow without sacrificing your lifestyle,” says Cardin. It’s a low-effort, high-reward way to give yourself more breathing room.
Beyond small cuts, take a moment to zoom out and reflect:
Are you living in a home that no longer fits your lifestyle or goals? Are you still in a house designed for a family of five when your heart wants to travel or downsize?
Is your spending aligned with the life you want now, not the one you had 20 years ago?
Reclaiming those resources and being intentional with your next chapter can bring so much freedom. The key is to engage with your money now and make a plan that supports the life you want.
The smartest money move isn’t cutting back, it’s getting clear. When you know what you have and what you value, your money works harder for you.
ZestYears Stat: The average U.S. household wastes $1,410 a year on unused subscriptions, according to a 2023 C+R Research report.
Budget for Joy…On Purpose
These aren’t the “just in case” years. These are the zest years. Your budget should reflect that. Cardin encourages clients to set up a dedicated “fun fund” or “zest bucket” money reserved for what makes you feel most alive:
Travel
Time with grandkids
Art or music classes
A dinner splurge with friends
“When joy is part of the plan,” she says, “you’re less likely to overspend impulsively or feel deprived.” Retirement isn’t just about safety, it’s about having the freedom to enjoy what matters to you, without guilt or guesswork.
Make It a Ritual
Cardin’s favorite habit? A weekly “finance date” at her favorite café.
“I spend 30–45 minutes reviewing my spending and checking in with how it’s all feeling,” she shares. “It’s not pressure-filled. It’s just a mindful check-in that keeps me connected to my money.”
This small but consistent ritual helps you make intentional decisions long before any surprises arise.
* Try This: Schedule a weekly money check-in. Pair it with something enjoyable, a walk, a cozy nook, a cup of tea, and aim for consistency, not perfection.
Redefine Retirement Readiness
Retirement isn’t an endpoint, it’s a turning point. The more clarity you have about what you want this chapter to look like, the more confidently you can move forward.
Ask yourself:
Am I emotionally ready for the shift out of full-time work?
Do I have a plan for how I’ll spend my time, energy, and resources?
Does my current financial setup reflect the lifestyle I want today?
Retirement confidence isn’t just about your account balance—it’s about knowing what comes next and feeling equipped to embrace it with joy.
About the Author
Courtney Cardin is the co-founder of Aura Finance, a platform designed to support adults at every stage of their financial lives. Aura blends behavioral coaching with personalized financial tools, helping users shift from uncertainty to clarity. The platform also addresses the emotional and logistical sides of financial transitions, making retirement feel less daunting and more empowering.
Offered as an employee benefit, Aura helps individuals get organized, reduce financial stress, and make confident money decisions aligned with their values. Want to see if Aura is available through your workplace or request it as a benefit? Visit www.aurafinance.io or reach out to Info@aurafinance.io to get started.Because peace of mind shouldn’t be a luxury—it should be part of the plan.
