You just got a raise. So why does your bank account still feel broke? It’s the lifestyle creep — the sneaky force turning your bigger paycheck into the same old savings. From $8 lattes to subscription traps to the psychology behind "keeping up with the Tans," find out why more income rarely equals more wealth, and what to actually do about it. Warning: may cause spontaneous budgeting.

Synopsis: Every Monday, The Business Times breaks down useful financial tips.

Highlights:

00:07 The pay-raise paradox

01:11 What lifestyle creep really means, psychologically

04:12 Three forces silently inflating your expenses

07:12 The one question to ask before spending your next paycheck

09:34 The Warren Buffett rule: why staying humble pays off

22:27 The three-week rule that curbs impulse spending

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Send us your questions, thoughts, story ideas, and feedback to btpodcasts@sph.com.sg.

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Written and hosted by: Howie Lim (howielim@sph.com.sg)

With Michelle Mah, founder and psychotherapist, The Curious Bonsai Therapy & Coaching and Wildon Goh, head of Southeast Asia and country head of Singapore. Fidelity International

Edited by: Howie Lim & Claressa Monteiro

Produced by: Howie Lim, Nicole Teo & Chai Pei Chieh

A podcast by BT Podcasts, The Business Times, SPH Media

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Do note: This podcast is meant to provide general information only. SPH Media accepts no liability for loss arising from any reliance on the podcast or use of third party’s products and services. Please consult professional advisors for independent advice.

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