Best system to stay on top of spending?

I’ve tried pretty much everything over the years: spreadsheets, budgeting apps, weekly reviews.

Spreadsheets make me slow down and actually look at the numbers.
Apps make everything automatic (sometimes too automatic) but it always fits a template.
Text-based tracking is the most natural, in my opinion.

What’s the method that works best for you?
Do you like the structure of a spreadsheet?
Do you prefer an app doing the heavy lifting?
Do you check in daily, weekly, or only when things feel out of control?
Has anything actually changed your behavior long-term?