The Case for Eating Frogs

You know those days when you have something that you really need to do but are kind of dreading, so you keep putting it off? And then it’s looming over your head all day (or all week)? Sometimes you gotta put on your big girl undies and just get it done first.

Mark Twain said: “Eat a live frog first thing in the morning and nothing worse will happen to you the rest of the day.”

… wait, what was that?

No, I’m not talking about eating Kermit. “Eat the frog first” just means:

Yes. Do the hard thing first and the rest of the day will go much more smoothly–and productively!

Think it only applies to your to-do list? Nope! It also applies to your wallet.

We’ve all been there: you get your paycheck (cha-ching!) and all of a sudden your spending trigger finger gets itchy: ”First round at happy hour is on me!” or “Let’s go shopping!” Am I right?

I love me a good happy hour or shopping spree just as much as you, but if you start doing that stuff first, more likely than not you’ll be dipping into your savings to cover your bills for the month.

When you get your paycheck, start by eating the frog.

70% of your monthly paycheck should be going toward your Essentials–all those crucial living expenses, like your mortgage/rent, utilities, insurance, food, and other literal needs (soap!).

By doing the hard thing first and paying your bills before you start spending on additional shopping, dining out, or entertainment; you’re ensuring that you’re covered, things are paid on time, and you’re not dipping into your savings to make sure your insurance premium is paid.

xo,