Old School vs. New School Money Management

When Al recently came across an old checkbook transaction register, it sparked a reflection on how money management has changed over the years.

In the “old school” days, every purchase was written down, balances were updated by hand, and people always knew—almost to the penny—where they stood. Today, banking apps and digital wallets provide instant access to balances with just a tap. The pro is obvious: convenience. The con is subtle: as Al’s wife, Lesia, put it best—“Sometimes when things are convenient they aren’t top of mind.”

That simple act of writing down transactions created space for intentional reflection about spending. Now, with everything automated, it’s easy to lose track of habits.

Whether old school or new school, Al believes financial wellness isn’t about the tool—it’s about the awareness. Because at the end of the day, true money management is more than checking balances; it’s checking behaviors.