The Snapshot Method

Skip itemizing every latte. On the 1st of each month, write down just three numbers:

• Total cash across all accounts
• Total investments at today's value
• Total debt you still owe

Add cash and investments, subtract the debt, and you have your net worth. Compare it to last month's number. Up is progress; down is a signal to look closer. This one figure captures your whole financial life in about 30 seconds — no receipts, no guilt.