
Personal Finance
Top 10 Personal Finance Articles of the Month — May 2020

It’s time again for one of my favorite features here on Dyer News: a look at the top 10 personal finance articles of the month. We’ll start things off with some more looks at money during a pandemic. Then, we’ll talk about changing financial directions. Finally, we’ll cover saving on groceries, investing as newlyweds, when it’s worth spending, and more.
By the way, June’s roundup will have a lot to say on the topics of race and injustice in the context of finance — but for now, we’ll look at articles specifically written in May.
As usual, this month’s list includes a couple Dyer News Top 10 mainstays as well as a few first-timers. Without further ado, below is my list of the top 10 personal finance articles published in May of 2020, along with their title, author, and the site they originally appeared on.
Money in 2020
Does Frugal Have A New Normal? — Mr. Tako Escapes
These days, there’s been a lot of talk about the “new normal” we’re all set to experience. From wearing masks to avoiding crowds and canceling travel plans, there’s plenty of change currently taking place around us. So what will this mean for frugality? That’s what this post from Mr. Tako Escapes explores.
Surviving a Scary Financial Crisis — Andrea Joy, Saving Joyfully
Not only is now a frightening event for world health but is also proving to be a time of financial hardship for many. From unemployment to medical bills, the situation may not be getting much better for some, even as parts of the economy reopen. To help those trying to keep their heads above water, Andrea looks at a few ways to financially survive this current crisis.
New Directions
Planning Your Next Money Goal — Kyle Burbank, Money@30
While most people may have an overarching plan to improve their finances, it may not always be obvious where to start. On top of that, after you’ve reached one money goal, what should you strive for next? For his piece, Kyle looks at a few tools and tips that could help you not only set your next financial goal but also achieve it.
How Identity Affects Your Finances — Rox, Finance Rox
If you had to describe your relationship with money, what would you say? Are you a spender, a saver, “good with money” or “bad with money?” As Rox points out, this perception you have of yourself might actually be having a larger effect on your finances than your realize — and could be holding you back.
When You Overcorrect, Give Yourself A Break — David, City Frugal
Changing course is rarely easy. In fact, even when making well intentioned adjustments, you may find yourself overcorrecting instead. Luckily, David has a potential fix to such problems: give yourself a break.
Where to Invest Your Money as Newlyweds — PF Geeks
Speaking of change, as we’ve previously discussed, getting married can bring about a major shift to your personal finance strategy. While that might lead you and your spouse to reassess things such as budgets and spending, what about investing? This article from PF Geeks looks at this and other money tips for newly married couples.
Personal Finance Tips
Affordable Grocery Shopping — A Dime Saved
In recent months, the simple act of going grocery shopping has evolved tremendously. And yet, there are still plenty of ways to save money while stocking up on essentials. If you’re looking for new ideas for saving at the store, this article from A Dime Saved offers up a few of them.
5 Times When Big Spending Pays Off (And 5 Times It Doesn’t) — Jake, Valuist
Often times, people equate “being frugal” with “not spending money.” In reality, sometimes spending an increased amount can actually be a better move in the long run — of course, that’s not always the case. With that in mind, Jake shares a few instances when there may be added value in spending big.
Ease Your Fear of Spending Money with These Simple Tools — Melody, Cash for Tacos
Just as investing in quality can often pay off, there are also times when it’s ok to spend money on things you want but might not need. Nevertheless, that may not be so easy for those deadset on saving. With that in mind, Melody offers some advice about overcoming these (sometimes irrational) fears of spending money, what you can learn from such experiences, and how to be sure you’re making the right decision.
Make Your Obsession With Money Temporary — Steven, Trip of a Lifestyle
There’s no doubt that getting a grasp on your finances and making strides to get ahead are objectively good things. But is it possible to take things too far and focus too much energy on money? Steven shares why your finances don’t need to be a constant project and why your obsession with cash should be temporary.
Thanks for checking out my top 10 personal finance articles published last month and congratulations to all of the bloggers who made the list. To find more of these great articles on a daily basis, be sure to follow me on Twitter @jondyer9 and of course visit DyerNews.com.