2 DAYS AGO • 1 MIN READ

The Subscription Trap

profile

I help everyday people regain control of their money and use their income with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

Financial Literacy Coach and Educator

Most people feel financially stretched and out of control—blaming external factors like the economy or their income. But lasting financial change comes from mastering what’s already within your control. I specialise in teaching practical money skills that help everyday people gain clarity, confidence, and control over their finances — so you can make intentional decisions, reduce stress, and create long-term stability and independence.

Have you ever looked through your bank statement and thought...

"I forgot I was even paying for that!"

You're not alone.

Netflix. Spotify. Gym memberships. Apps. Software. Streaming services. Phone plans.

Individually they don't seem like much, but together they can quietly drain hundreds—even thousands—of dollars every year.

One of the first things I encourage people to do when they're taking back control of their money is to complete a subscription audit.

Ask yourself:

  • Do I still use this?
  • Does it still add value to my life?
  • If I was signing up today, would I pay for it again?

You'll often be surprised by how many subscriptions no longer serve you.

What if you can't cancel?

Unfortunately, some companies make cancelling far harder than signing up.

If you've genuinely tried contacting the company, followed their cancellation process, and you're still getting nowhere, there is another option.

If the subscription is being charged to your credit card, you can speak to your bank about replacing your card with a new card number.

In many cases, this will stop future charges from merchants using the old card details.

However, it's important to know this isn't guaranteed. Some merchants receive updated card details automatically through their payment provider, so you may still need to cancel directly with the business or ask your bank to help you dispute or block future transactions.

The important thing is this:

You deserve to be in control of where your money goes.

Every dollar that leaves your account should be a conscious decision—not something you forgot about months ago.

Small changes like reviewing your subscriptions can free up money that could instead be paying off debt, building an emergency fund, or investing in your future.

Sometimes taking back control doesn't require earning more.

It simply starts with paying attention.

This week's challenge: Spend just 15 minutes reviewing every recurring payment leaving your account. Cancel one subscription you no longer use.

You might be surprised how good it feels.

Until next time,

Kara Northcott

Financial Educator & Facilitator

Helping everyday people take back control of their money.

027 666 6784
📩 kara@financialconsultant.co.nz
🌐 kara-northcott-financial-consultant.kit.com​

​Unsubscribe · Preferences​

I help everyday people regain control of their money and use their income with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

Financial Literacy Coach and Educator

Most people feel financially stretched and out of control—blaming external factors like the economy or their income. But lasting financial change comes from mastering what’s already within your control. I specialise in teaching practical money skills that help everyday people gain clarity, confidence, and control over their finances — so you can make intentional decisions, reduce stress, and create long-term stability and independence.

Read more from I help everyday people regain control of their money and use their income with confidence, clarity, and purpose.

What Are ETFs…

9 DAYS AGO • 2 MIN READ

Discover All Posts