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Have you ever wanted to save money but felt like there’s just never anything left to save?
Like, by the time the bills are paid, the groceries are bought, and the kids have what they need, your bank account is basically whispering, “try again next month”?
Yup!! Been there.
I was around 22 when I first tried the 52 week savings challenge. I was single, working full-time as a teacher’s assistant and part-time at a gym, living with my momma and four siblings, and just trying to feel like I had some control over my money.
One night, I came across the challenge on a blog(I wish I could remember which one) and decided to try it. It didn’t require a big income or some extreme sacrifice, just a little consistency. And by the end of the year? I had saved $1,378.
That challenge showed me that saving money doesn’t have to be complicated. It just has to be doable.
And for beginners, especially the ones who feel like there’s barely any wiggle room, this one right here is the one I recommend every time.
Let me show you why it works, how to make it your own, and how to actually stick with it for all 52 weeks.
What is the 52 Week Savings Challenge, anyway?
It’s simple: you save a specific amount every week for 52 weeks.
Week 1 = $1
Week 2 = $2
Week 3 = $3…
By week 52, you’re tossing in $52.
Add it all up and you’ve got $1,378 saved in a year.
It’s not magic, it’s math. But it feels like magic when you see your balance go up without it hurting your budget.
Why this challenge actually works (whether you’re 22 and single or a mom of 3)
This challenge is beginner-friendly, budget-friendly, and completely judgment-free.
It starts off super light:$1, $2, $3? You can swing that.
It builds momentum slowly so you don’t burn out.
It’s flexible: you can do it forwards, backwards, or mix it up.
You don’t need a fancy app or financial degree. Just a plan.
I always tell people that you don’t need to be perfect.
Some weeks I swapped amounts or skipped and caught up later. Life happens. The point is progress, not Pinterest-perfect consistency.
If you’re new to saving money and your budget is tight, this challenge gives you the space to build up over time. You’re not trying to stash hundreds of dollars every month; you’re just saving something, and by the end of 12 months? That something turns into over $1,000.
Different ways to do the 52 Week Savings Challenge
Because ain’t nobody here for boring budgeting:
1. Traditional way (aka “Climb the Ladder”): Start with $1 and add a dollar each week until you hit $52.
2. Reverse it: Start with $52 and work your way down. Great if you’re flush with tax refund money or holiday cash.
3. Mix-and-match: Print out a tracker with all 52 amounts, and cross off whichever one you can afford each week. No pressure. Total control.
4. Same amount weekly: Not a fan of thinking? Just save $26.50 every week. You’ll still hit the same $1,378 at the end. Easy mode.
Where to stash the cash (so you don’t touch it)
If that money stays in your checking account, it’s gonna vanish on groceries, Target runs, or “just this once” spending.
Here’s what worked for me:
- High-yield savings account (one that’s not linked to your debit card)
- Cash envelopes labeled “Hands Off”
- Automatic transfers set to run every payday
Basically: make it a little inconvenient to access, and you’ll be way less tempted to touch it.
What to do when life tries you mid-challenge
Because oh, it will try you. Unexpected bills. Sick kids. Groceries going up (again).
Your job isn’t to be perfect-your job is to adjust.
Can’t save $20 this week? Do $5.
Missed last week completely? Catch up next month.
Some savings is better than none. That’s the mindset that builds consistency and confidence.
Want a free 52 Week Savings Challenge Tracker?
Because checking off boxes feels so good, and yes, I made you one.
This printable tracker is cute, clean, and 100% functional for moms, beginners, and anyone trying to stay on track.
Download it, print it, stick it somewhere you’ll see every week. This little sheet is about to be your accountability buddy. Get it down below!
Final thoughts: The money adds up faster than you think
This challenge taught me something I needed to learn early:
Saving money doesn’t have to feel impossible-you just need a system that meets you where you are.
Whether you’re saving for a rainy day, trying to build an emergency fund, or just want to prove to yourself that you can stack some money-the 52 week savings challenge is the best place to start.
You don’t need a big income. You don’t need fancy tools.
You just need the willingness to try and the consistency to keep going.
And if I could pull it off at 22, working two jobs, living in a loud house with five people?
You can absolutely do this too.