What is the best way to start building an emergency fund when living paycheck to paycheck?

I was in the exact same boat a couple years ago. Here's what worked for me: 1. **Start ridiculously small** - I began with just $25 per paycheck. It felt pointless at first but it builds the habit. 2. **Automate it** - Set up automatic transfers the day after payday. If you never see it, you won't miss it. 3. **Use a separate bank** - I opened an online savings account at a different bank so it wasn't easy to transfer back. 4. **Sell stuff you don't need** - I made about $400 selling things on Facebook Marketplace and that kickstarted my fund. 5. **Pick up a side gig temporarily** - I did DoorDash on weekends for 3 months just to build my cushion. The goal is just $1,000 to start. Once you hit that, the momentum keeps you going. Took me 8 months but I got there.