Everyone talks about how hectic the holidays are — and yes, they are — but what about Maycember? That wild stretch between Mother’s Day and the end of June has become my personal test of how to manage finances during busy seasons — and just how many events one calendar can hold. Over the years, I’ve learned that while my schedule explodes with graduations, birthdays, and school chaos, my financial life doesn’t have to follow suit.
Over the past few years, my Maycembers have included:
- Moving — three times (yes, including buying a house!)
- Celebrating all the graduations (college, high school, elementary school… even an Eagle Scout ceremony)
- Attending a marathon of school performances and award ceremonies
- Cramming in multiple birthdays, Father’s Day, and the last week of school — all squeezed into the same week. Every. Single. Year.
- Oh, and launching a business somewhere in there, too
By the time June ends, I’m emotionally and physically D.O.N.E.
Now, with all that going on, you’d think my finances would be just as chaotic. After all, Maycember — much like the holiday season — comes with a hefty dose of extra spending that could easily spiral into stress.
But surprisingly, my finances are the one area that doesn’t fall apart.
Why?
Because years of intentional financial planning and automation have created a calm, quiet corner in the middle of the cake-fueled storm. While I’m juggling moving boxes, diplomas, and potluck duties (as gracefully as a bull in a china shop), my financial systems just keep humming along — no micromanagement required.
Financial peace of mind isn’t just about saving for retirement (though yes, that’s important). Sometimes, it’s simply about having one less thing to stress about when life already feels like ENOUGH.
4 Ways to Create Financial Calm in Chaotic Seasons
1. Automate What You Can
From bill payments to savings contributions, automation keeps your financial life moving — even when your brain is elsewhere.
One of my biggest wins? Automating our savings. We prioritize saving first, not last.
(Spoiler alert: When we wait to save at the end of the month, there’s usually nothing left. Weird, right?)
By setting up automatic transfers, we’re building financial security without even thinking about it.
2. Plan Ahead for Big Life Events
Knowing what’s coming helps avoid that last-minute financial panic. I was lucky to have time to plan for our moves and milestone celebrations — although, by the time Father’s Day rolls around, I’m usually running on fumes. (Sorry, dads.)
One of my best tools? A dedicated gifting savings bucket. I contribute to it all year long, so when “gifting season” hits — whether it’s holidays, birthdays, or graduations — I’m ready. No scrambling. No need to disrupt our regular cash flow.
3. Keep It Simple
You don’t need a complicated system. A basic budget and a few automated reminders can go a long way.
I live by the KISS principle: Keep It Simple, Silly.
Life is already complicated — your finances don’t need to be.
4. Give Yourself Grace
Life is messy. And busy. Financial wellness isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress.
As Churchill famously said, “Perfection is the enemy of progress.”
That’s a mantra I repeat often — especially when I forget the field trip form, or when I have to rummage through the cabinet for leftover birthday candles. (Pretty sure this one was from my daughter’s 10th birthday… two years ago!)
Final Thoughts
If your Maycember — or whatever your version of chaos looks like — has you feeling overwhelmed, just know this: you’re not alone. And with a little forethought and a few simple systems, you can carve out a pocket of peace, even when life feels like too much.
Oh, and in case you were wondering — yes, there are currently multiple different birthday cakes and Father’s Day desserts crammed into my fridge. Dessert for breakfast?
Honestly? Sometimes, absolutely yes.
Disclaimer:
This article is provided for educational, informational, and illustrative purposes only. It does not constitute tax advice, investment advice, or a recommendation to buy or sell any security. The content is general in nature and may not apply to your individual circumstances. Please consult a qualified tax professional, financial planner, and/or legal advisor for guidance specific to your situation.