Having a financial accountability partner can increase your levels of motivation, focus, and commitment to your budget goals, while bolstering your willpower for resisting temptations to veer off track.
I was on my way to Target with a short list of items to purchase. Before going in the store, I texted a friend, “I really hope I stay on-budget in here.” She texted back: “Send me a picture of your receipt.” On one hand, the request felt a little invasive. On the other hand, it sounded strategic—I had recently opened up to this friend about how I often overspent at Target. So I took her up on the offer.
