We all know that saving is important, yet for many, actually doing it can feel like an uphill battle. Why is it so hard to set aside money, even when we know it’s in our best interest? To get to the bottom of this oft-experienced conundrum, let’s explore the psychological reasons behind savings procrastination and look at evidence-backed ways to conquer it.

Present bias: The now vs. later dilemma

At the root of savings procrastination lies a cognitive quirk known as present bias, which causes us to prioritise immediate rewards over long-term gains, even when the latter are objectively better. This is why many of us would rather have £100 today than £120 in a year, despite the fact that waiting would yield more value. Present bias tricks our brain into opting for immediate spending, undermining our ability to save for future goals.

A classic illustration of present bias is the famous Stanford marshmallow test. Conducted in the 1970s by psychologist Walter Mischel, the experiment offered children a choice: eat one marshmallow now, or wait 15 minutes and receive two marshmallows instead. The test revealed a lot about self-control and delayed gratification. Some children managed to wait for the second marshmallow, while others quickly gave in to the temptation. Interestingly, follow-up studies found that the children who were able to wait for the second marshmallow tended to achieve better life outcomes, including higher academic achievement and greater financial success.

This experiment encapsulates how present bias works in real life. When faced with the choice of spending or saving, some of us act like the children who opted for immediate gratification, preferring money now, even though we know we could benefit more by saving for the future. Understanding this bias can help us recognise why we struggle with saving and give us the insight we need to build better financial habits.

Loss aversion

It is natural for us to experience what’s known as loss aversion, where the pain of losing money feels stronger than the pleasure of gaining it. When we save, it may feel like we’re sacrificing our current spending power, even though we’re setting ourselves up for future financial security.

Choice overload

With so many savings options out there—ISAs, pensions, investments—it’s easy to become overwhelmed and opt, instead, for doing nothing at all. Choice overload can create decision paralysis, stopping us from taking any meaningful action toward saving.

Optimism bias

Another common mental block is optimism bias. This is where we overestimate how well things are liable to go in the future. We might assume that, as soon as we get that promised raise, it’ll be the perfect time to start saving, or to think that a future version of yourself will be better placed to handle difficult financial decisions, which can lead to continuous delays.

Evidence-based strategies to combat saving apathy

Understanding the psychology behind why we put off saving is only half the battle. To make the most of your money, it’s key to apply practical strategies that will break through these barriers.

1. Embrace automation

One of the most effective ways to beat procrastination is to remove the element of choice altogether. Set up automatic transfers to move a portion of your income to a savings account on payday.

2. Visualise your future self

Research shows that vividly imagining your future self can help counteract present bias. By creating a mental connection with your future self, you’re more likely to make decisions that benefit you in the long run.

3. Start small

Large, long-term financial goals can feel overwhelming. To combat this, use the goal-gradient hypothesis, which shows that people are more motivated when they see progress toward their goal. Start with small, achievable savings targets to build momentum.

4. Use mental accounting

Take advantage of mental accounting, a tendency to mentally separate funds for specific purposes. By creating separate savings accounts or "pots" for different goals, you reduce the likelihood of dipping into your savings.

5. Make saving tangible

Using visual feedback can make the abstract concept of saving feel more real. Tracking your savings progress visually can provide immediate rewards and encourage consistent contributions.

7. Simplify your choices

If you’re overwhelmed by myriad savings options, streamline your choices to reduce cognitive overload. Start with just one or two savings accounts or products to get the ball rolling. You can diversify later as your savings grow.

Building a path to financial wellness

The key to overcoming savings procrastination is to focus on progress, not perfection. Each small step you take toward saving, no matter how small, is a win. Celebrate your achievements along the way and be patient with yourself as you form new habits.

By understanding the psychological forces behind procrastination and using these strategies, you’re not just building better savings habits, you’re changing your relationship with money. This shift in mindset can make a world of difference in your financial future.

Please note: Chip does not offer financial or tax advice, and this should not be considered a personal recommendation.

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