Optimal Finance Daily · Wednesday, July 29, 2026
As a solution to poor spending decisions, Ornelia Grosz advises treating all income, including bonuses and tax refunds, as earned income. She suggests holding onto such funds for a few months before deciding how to spend them, allowing for a more considered approach.
“Treat all income as earned income. No matter if it's bonuses, tax refunds, inheritances, or gifts. Hold onto the money for a few months before making any spending decision.”
“In the interim, park the money in your savings account. When the time is up, you will view this money as savings and your decision-making process will adjust.”