We all want to save more, but let’s be honest—life gets in the way. Building savings can feel like an uphill battle, whether it’s an unexpected expense or the temptation of a spontaneous purchase. But what if we could make saving easier, almost automatic? Behavioral science offers research-backed strategies to help us outsmart our spending habits and grow our savings without feeling deprived.

Here’s how simple psychology hacks can help you save more without even thinking about it.

Set It and Forget It with Default Savings

One of the most effective ways to save is by making it automatic. Research shows that people are far more likely to build a strong financial cushion when savings are the default option—like auto-enrolling employees into a retirement plan. You can apply this same principle by setting up automatic transfers to your savings account on payday. If the money never hits your checking account, you won’t be tempted to spend it.

Visualize Your Goals

Seeing is believing, and that’s especially true when it comes to saving. Studies have shown that people who use visual goal trackers—like a savings thermometer or a dedicated app—are more likely to reach their financial targets. Try setting a goal for a big purchase, vacation, or emergency fund, and track your progress in a way that keeps you motivated.

Reward Yourself for Small Wins

Saving money doesn’t have to feel like a sacrifice. Behavioral economists suggest rewarding yourself for small milestones can make the process more enjoyable and sustainable. For example, for every $500 you save, treat yourself to a small reward—like a fancy coffee or a movie night. These little incentives keep you engaged without derailing your progress.

Use Mental Accounting to Your Advantage

We naturally categorize money in our minds—rent money feels different from spending money, even if it’s in the same account. Leverage this by creating separate savings accounts for different goals, such as vacation or emergency funds. Naming these accounts makes saving feel more purposeful and keeps you from dipping into them for everyday expenses.

Make Saving a Challenge

Turning saving into a game can help you stay on track. Prevalent challenges, like the 52-week savings challenge or rounding up purchases to the nearest dollar and keeping the spare change, make saving feel less like a chore and more like a fun habit. The trick is to make it engaging enough that you stick with it.

Saving doesn’t have to be complicated—it just takes a few clever tweaks to make it work in your favor. By setting up automatic savings, tracking progress visually, celebrating small wins, and structuring your accounts with purpose, you can trick yourself into building a healthier financial future.