Nooit gespaard? Zo begin je wél aan een geld sparen challenge (en hou je 'm vol)

Never saved? Here's how to start a money-saving challenge (and stick with it)

Let's be honest: saving often sounds easier than it is. You have good intentions, maybe even set aside a savings account or open a separate account... but a month later, it's already empty. Sound familiar? You're not alone. Saving can be difficult, especially if you've never really learned how to do it or if you're just happy to make ends meet each month.

Yet there is a way to make saving achievable and even a little fun. The solution? A money-saving challenge . And no, you don't have to be a savings guru. In this blog post, I'll show you how to get started, how to persevere, and why it really works—even if you think saving isn't for you right now.

Why a money saving challenge actually works

A money-saving challenge is essentially a fun, structured way to save. Instead of simply "trying to put something aside" (which often remains vague), you work with a concrete goal and clear steps. For example, you set aside a fixed amount each week, or you participate in a 30-day challenge where you save a small amount each day.

Here are a few reasons why such a challenge works so well:

  • You make it visual and measurable. You literally see how much you've already saved.
  • It feels like a game. And that makes it less mentally demanding.
  • You slowly build a habit. Small steps help you maintain it longer.
  • You're less likely to spend the money, especially if you save cash in a folder or envelopes.

Want to learn more about how to make savings goals concrete? Also read: How to set realistic savings goals.

Start small (but start)

Many people think saving only makes sense if you can immediately set aside large sums. That's simply not true. Starting small builds confidence. And that confidence keeps you going.

A few examples of low-threshold money saving challenges:

  • 1 Euro a Day Challenge: Every day, you put 1 euro into a piggy bank. At the end of the month, you'll have 30 euros.
  • 52-week challenge: you save the week number each week. Week 1 = €1, week 2 = €2, and so on, until week 52. At the end, you'll have €1,378!
  • 5-euro challenge: Every time you get a 5-euro note, put it away. You'll be amazed at how quickly it adds up.
  • 100 Envelopes Challenge: Number 100 envelopes, numbered 1 through 100, draw one at random each day, and set aside that amount. After 100 days, you'll have saved €5,050.

If you prefer to save digitally, many banks allow you to set up automatic savings rules. For example, every time you use your debit card, you round up the amount to the nearest dollar, and the difference goes into your savings account. It couldn't be easier.

Choose a challenge that suits you

Not every money-saving challenge is right for everyone. Focus on what works for you.

Ask yourself these questions:

  • What is my savings goal? (e.g., vacation, emergency, Christmas gifts)
  • How much can I spare per week or per month?
  • Do I prefer to save in cash or digitally?

Perhaps a visual savings challenge would suit you better. Think of one where you color in boxes for each amount you save.

Make it fun (really!)

Saving boring? Not if you give it a personal touch. Here are a few tips to make it more fun:

  • Use a nice savings folder or a nice jar with a label.
  • Work with rewards. For example, save up for a small outing after every 100 euros.
  • Do it together. Invite a friend to join in. It's incredibly motivating.
  • Share your progress on social media or in a savings group.

At Vaye Amsterdam you'll find all sorts of handy tools like cash stuffing binders , savings challenges , and accessories to make your savings goals visual and tangible.

Keep it going with these practical tips

Okay, getting started is often easy. But how do you keep going, even when things get tough? Here are a few practical tips for persevering:

  • Schedule a fixed savings time. For example, every Sunday evening.
  • Make saving part of your routine. Like brushing your teeth. The more you do it, the more normal it becomes.
  • Be flexible. If it doesn't work out one week, just adjust. Don't stress.
  • Remind yourself of your goal. Stick a picture on your piggy bank or write down your reason.
  • It's not about saving perfectly, but about keeping moving. Something is always better than nothing.

What do you gain from it?

A money-saving challenge is, of course, all about money. But there's so much more to it:

  • Peace of mind. You know you've put something aside.
  • Confidence in yourself. You see that you do have discipline.
  • Freedom. Whether it's a buffer or something fun to look forward to.

And believe me: that feeling of saving the first €100 yourself? It's worth its weight in gold.

A small example from real life

Lisa (28) started a simple €1-a-day challenge in January. She had never saved before and found money management complicated. After three months, she had saved over €90. "That might not sound like much," she says, "but for me it was a huge victory. I proved to myself that I can save." She's now participating in the 52-week challenge and saving for a weekend getaway.

Ready to get started?

Choose a challenge, print out a tracker, or order a nice budget map, and just get started. You don't have to do it perfectly. You just have to take one step.

Let me know in the comments which money-saving challenge you're going to try! And if you have any questions, feel free to ask. We save together.

Want to read more? See also:

Have fun saving!

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