Remember that windfalls aren’t just surprise inheritances or end-of-year bonuses. They’re any cash jump: a tax return, a three-paycheck month, an employer benefit, the chance to take on extra hours at work. The point here isn’t about the extra money (remember, it’s not about the money!), it’s about making a really intentional decision whenever something like this happens. Whether you’re hustling to build a buffer or looking for ways to pay a big expense, it’s those little upticks that will help you get ahead if you budget them to your top priorities.
