Rich Tía Advice February 2025 | Daisy

Rich Tía’s Guide to Beating Inflation

With eggs costing more than your morning cafecito and some of our neighbors starting backyard chicken coops, it’s clear inflation is hitting us all hard. But before you start googling “how to build a chicken coop,” let me share some wisdom that has kept me thriving through tough economic times.

The Power of Financial Honesty

You know what’s harder than talking about money? Not talking about it and struggling alone. Last month, during a Sunday breakfast, my friend finally opened up about her credit card debt. Instead of judgment, she found support through sharing tips. Now, our group chat isn’t just for sharing memes – it’s where we post deals, share budgeting wins, and support each other’s financial goals. We’re calling this honesty about finances “Loud Budgeting,” and here’s how to hack it.

Loud Budgeting Your Life:

Schedule monthly “Money Talk” check-ins
Share one financial goal and one challenge
Celebrate small wins (paying extra on debt counts!)
Offer budget-friendly activities

Community Over Consumption: The Swap Fiesta

Remember when we used to shop our stress away? Now we’re shopping each other’s closets! A swap fiesta has become legendary in my network. Last week, my prima found her perfect winter coat, my friend Maria got new books for her kids, and I scored a gorgeous lamp for my office – all without spending a dime!

How to Host a Swap Fiesta:

Create a group chat for “looking for” items
Set a monthly date (we do first Saturdays)
Everyone brings 5-10 quality items
Add music, snacks, and turn it into a real fiesta!

Building Your Financial Fortress: Emergency Fund & Future Planning

Let me be clear about something – an emergency fund isn’t just a savings account, it’s your family’s shield. Start with these steps:

30-Day Emergency Fund Challenge:

Week 1: Open a high-yield savings account
Week 2: Set up $25 weekly automatic transfers
Week 3: Review subscriptions and cut $50 monthly
Week 4: Sell unused items and deposit proceeds

Smart Income Strategies: Every Dollar Counts

Your tía didn’t build wealth just by saving – we have to be creative about bringing in extra income! Besides those Amazon Flex routes paying $18-25 hourly, consider:

Weekend catering (your empanadas are worth gold!)
Translation services (that bilingual brain = dinero)
Virtual tutoring (share your expertise)
Content Creation (help your local mom and pop shop)

The New Rules of Grocery Shopping

Mira, the way we grocery shop needs to change. No more impromptu trips that blow the budget! Here’s my inflation-proof system:

Monthly Meal Planning Strategy:

Check your pantry first (stop buying duplicate spices!)
Plan meals around seasonal produce
Compare prices online
Pick up in-store to avoid delivery fees
Use cash envelopes for in-person shopping

The 48-Hour Rule & Mindful Spending

Before you click “buy now,” pause. That Amazon cart can wait. I’ve saved thousands using the 48-hour rule, and guess what? Half the time, I realized I didn’t need the item anyway!

Automating Your Financial Success

Let technology do the heavy lifting:

Bill payments
Savings transfers
Investment contributions
Debt payments

Pro Tip: Set up automatic transfers the day after payday. You can’t spend what you don’t see!

Your Credit Card Strategy

Those rewards points? They’re like finding money in your washer – nice, but not if you’re paying interest! Only use credit cards if:

You have a solid budget
Pay in full monthly
Have specific plans for rewards

Remember, financial freedom isn’t about deprivation – it’s about making smart choices that align with your values. We’re not just surviving inflation; we’re building generational wealth, one wise decision at a time.

Rich Tía’s Calendar Tip: Mark the first of each month for budget reviews, the 15th for goal check-ins, and every Sunday for meal planning. Structure creates freedom!