Financial Habits to Start Right Now (2024)

by Laura | Intentional Finance | 20 comments

We all try to manage our money well. It’s much easier said than done. I think it’s something that will always be a work in progress as we go through different chapters of life. However, there are certain financial habits that I think are key in managing finances well throughout our lives.

Financial Habits to Start Right Now (1)

Save

First and foremost I think a savings account is a must. You never know what’s going to come up – a car repair, home repair, unexpected bill can show up without notice. It’s always nice to have a cushion to fall back on when something goes wrong.

For example, we had a leak coming in through a pipe on our roof. It wasn’t covered under the home warranty so we had to pay the entire cost out of pocket. Thankfully, we had some extra cash set aside for an occasion such as this.

Invest

As long as debts are paid (besides the house) I think contributing to a retirement account is something that’s often overlooked. It’s hard to think that far into the future, but being prepared will make things easier when that time does come.

I’ve invested in a 401(k) since the option was available through my employer. Not a lot comes out of each paycheck, but it grows quickly, especially with the employer match. There are many investment options and I’d recommend you discuss them with a trusted financial adviser.

Know the Difference Between Wants and Needs

This is a tough one for many (including me!), but it’s super important for anyone wanting to get their budget on track. Make a little room in the budget for a couple wants – a cup of coffee a couple days a week, a new app for your phone, etc.

A good way to try this out is to have a “spending freeze” for a specific amount of time where you only busy things that are absolutely necessary. While I haven’t personally tried this out yet, I think it’s a great idea.

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Make a Budget

This is something I had been putting off forever.. we had a general one, but nothing written out. I FINALLY found I system I am super happy with. It’s digital and really easy to use. Both my husband and I use our debit card for everything… we’re not quite ready to switch to a cash system! Plus, we get bank rewards for using our cards. That’s why a digital system was a must for me.

This system links with our bank account so we can categorize and keep track of our spending. We use Mint by Intuit. It synced flawlessly with our bank account and I really like how it works!

Give

“Do not withhold good from those to whom it is due, when it is in your power to do it.” – Proverbs 3:27

It doesn’t have to be big, or fancy, or even cost you money. It can be the giving of your time to help someone. But giving back to others almost always blesses the giver as much as the recipient.

These 5 habits are ones that I believe are some of the most important for diligently managing your finances. Saving, Investing, Budgeting, Giving, and knowing Wants vs. Needs are habits that will serve us well our entire lives.

More Money-Saving Tips:

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  • How to Eat Healthy AND Stay on Budget

  1. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (11)

    Tina Marieon February 16, 2015 at 8:47 am

    Starting your financial habits early are the key. But, for me…it’s not touching the savings! Grandchildren are my down fall. 🙂

    Reply

    • Financial Habits to Start Right Now (12)

      Lauraon February 17, 2015 at 10:45 am

      I can relate.. our budget stalls out when our niece and nephew come visit 🙂

      Reply

  2. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (14)

    Meeghanon February 16, 2015 at 10:31 am

    These are great ideas… It is so important to set aside a little bit for saving, spending and giving when mapping financial goals.

    Reply

  3. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (15)

    Angie Benjaminon February 17, 2015 at 1:52 am

    Great tips. My husband and I been married for nearly 4 years now, and I’m blessed we’ve never been in debt. I’m blessed my husband is really disciplined with money, we save and budget…we always also discuss what we “want” and what we “need”…we’re now looking into investments opportunities. But one thing I think we can improve is the giving part! thanks for sharing!!

    Reply

  4. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (16)

    Penny Struebigon February 17, 2015 at 5:51 am

    Learning the difference between “want” and “need” is the hardest for me. These are some great tips.

    Reply

  5. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (17)

    ERicaon February 20, 2015 at 7:42 am

    What awesome tips. We had a really hard time distinguishing wants and needs for a long time. Now we are trying to teach the kids the same thing. Thanks for the post, I found it on Thrifty Thursday Link up.

    Reply

  6. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (18)

    Leesha @ Living Contentlyon February 20, 2015 at 8:52 am

    Great tips, Laura! Being financially fit really is all about establishing good habits, and you’ve definitely covered them all. Thanks for sharing! Pinning! 🙂

    Reply

  7. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (20)

    Gentle Joyon February 21, 2015 at 10:46 am

    Good advice… such important things to do regularly.

    Reply

  8. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (21)

    Gretchenon February 26, 2015 at 9:40 am

    Giving is the hardest for us, because we’re still in debt! We really, really want to give, so we’re learning to give of our time as generously as possible, in lieu of finances

    Reply

    • Financial Habits to Start Right Now (22)

      Lauraon February 26, 2015 at 7:08 pm

      I think time can be just as valuable as monetary giving. Thanks so much for stopping by, Gretchen!

      Reply

  9. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (23)

    Marty Montereyon February 27, 2015 at 3:26 pm

    Just found you on Thrifty Thursday. I’m curious where you bank–mine doesn’t offer rewards with a debit card. Thanks!

    Reply

    • Financial Habits to Start Right Now (24)

      Lauraon February 28, 2015 at 1:33 pm

      We bank at a local credit union. Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply

  10. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (25)

    Douglas Antrimon February 10, 2016 at 11:30 am

    Great article, Super good ideas. Thanks for sharing

    Reply

  11. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (26)

    Sophiaon March 18, 2021 at 12:39 am

    Nice post, keep up with this interesting work. Good information. Thank you for sharing good knowledge and information it’s very helpful and understanding.. as we are looking for this information for a long time.

    Reply

  12. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (27)

    Anthony Deveauxon July 6, 2021 at 6:22 am

    Nice article! Love to read such stuff.

    Reply

  13. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (28)

    Financialserviceon September 22, 2021 at 8:39 am

    I am really glad to read an article, I got a lot of information and I refer my friends to read article. thanks for sharing the information
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    Reply

  14. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (29)

    cpnsupplyon January 5, 2022 at 12:32 am

    Nice post about financial habits to start right now, I think your post very helpful for lot of people, Thanks for sharing the information.

    Reply

  15. Financial Habits to Start Right Now (30)

    Aftabon May 10, 2022 at 12:19 am

    wow! you have summed up quite important tips in this article. Thankyou for such a good tips.

    Reply

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Financial Habits to Start Right Now (2024)

FAQs

Financial Habits to Start Right Now? ›

The 50-30-20 rule recommends putting 50% of your money toward needs, 30% toward wants, and 20% toward savings. The savings category also includes money you will need to realize your future goals.

What is the 50 30 20 rule? ›

The 50-30-20 rule recommends putting 50% of your money toward needs, 30% toward wants, and 20% toward savings. The savings category also includes money you will need to realize your future goals.

What is one money habit you would like to start? ›

Round up to save up. One final money habit to try is so simple you'll wonder why you didn't try it sooner. Rounding up your transactions can be an easy way to save money that you can apply toward retirement, paying down debt, or another money goal.

What are good money habits? ›

  • Pay yourself first. If you wait to see what income is left over after paying expenses, you are less likely to save. ...
  • Take advantage of bank technology. ...
  • Pay your bills on time and pay more than the minimum amount. ...
  • Determine needs versus wants. ...
  • Shop around. ...
  • Consider investments. ...
  • Consult your local bank.

How do I start all over financially? ›

  1. Set Life Goals.
  2. Make a Monthly Budget.
  3. Pay off Credit Cards in Full.
  4. Create Automatic Savings.
  5. Start Investing Now.
  6. Watch Your Credit Score.
  7. Negotiate for Goods and Services.
  8. Get Educated on Financial Issues.

Is 4000 a good savings? ›

Are you approaching 30? How much money do you have saved? According to CNN Money, someone between the ages of 25 and 30, who makes around $40,000 a year, should have at least $4,000 saved.

How to budget $4,000 a month? ›

making $4,000 a month using the 75 10 15 method. 75% goes towards your needs, so use $3,000 towards housing bills, transport, and groceries. 10% goes towards want. So $400 to spend on dining out, entertainment, and hobbies.

What are the 5 basics of personal finance? ›

There's plenty to learn about personal financial topics, but breaking them down can help simplify things. To start expanding your financial literacy, consider these five areas: budgeting, building and improving credit, saving, borrowing and repaying debt, and investing.

What's the #1 thing for how do you stick with your budget? ›

Tips on How to Stick to a Budget
  • Make your budget goals realistic. ...
  • Know what you're saving for. ...
  • Try a new budget challenge. ...
  • Make a weekly or monthly food budget. ...
  • Pay yourself first. ...
  • Sleep on large and impulse purchases. ...
  • Budget with a friend.
Mar 8, 2023

What are old money habits? ›

People with generational wealth are less likely to spend spontaneously. An old money family places practicality above convenience. People with old money spend their time attending high-class social events and participating in less accessible activities like polo or sailing.

How can I be smart financially? ›

5 steps for getting smarter about everyday finances
  1. Get a clear picture of your financials—now and down the road. ...
  2. Tomorrow's plans start with today's budget. ...
  3. Make your money work smarter, not harder. ...
  4. Remember that monthly bills can impact future goals. ...
  5. Use a banking app to save time and stay on top of your finances, 24/7.

How do rich people manage finances? ›

Wealthy individuals put about 15% of their assets into fixed-income investments. These are stable investments, like bonds, that earn income over a set period of time. For example, some bonds, like Series I Savings Bonds, pay 4.3% right now and pay out the interest every six months.

How do millionaires live off interest? ›

Living off interest involves relying on what's known as passive income. This implies that your assets generate enough returns to cover your monthly income needs without the need for additional work or income sources. The ideal scenario is to use the interest and returns while preserving the core principal.

Why do I struggle financially? ›

It may be that you have too much credit card debt, not enough income, or you overspend on unnecessary purchases when you feel stressed or anxious. Or perhaps, it's a combination of problems. Make a separate plan for each one.

How do I stop struggling financially? ›

In this article:
  1. Identify the problem.
  2. Make a budget to help you resolve your financial problems.
  3. Lower your expenses.
  4. Pay in cash.
  5. Stop taking on debt to avoid aggravating your financial problems.
  6. Avoid buying new.
  7. Meet with your advisor to discuss your financial problems.
  8. Increase your income.
Jan 29, 2024

What is there to do at Financial Rock Bottom? ›

Overcoming Financial Hardship After Hitting Rock Bottom in Life
  1. Understanding the Emotional Toll. ...
  2. Assessing the Situation. ...
  3. Creating a Realistic Budget. ...
  4. Negotiating with Creditors. ...
  5. Exploring Government Assistance Programs. ...
  6. Seeking Employment Opportunities. ...
  7. Investing in Education and Skill Development.
Nov 27, 2023

What is a 50 30 20 budget example? ›

The 50/30/20 rule is an easy budgeting method that can help you to manage your money effectively, simply and sustainably. The basic rule of thumb is to divide your monthly after-tax income into three spending categories: 50% for needs, 30% for wants and 20% for savings or paying off debt.

Is the 50 30 20 rule outdated? ›

If the 50/30/20 budget was once considered the golden standard of budgeting, it's not anymore. But there are budgeting methods out there that can help you reach your financial goals. Here are some expert-recommended alternatives to the 50/30/20.

What is the disadvantage of the 50 30 20 rule? ›

It may not work for everyone. Depending on your income and expenses, the 50/30/20 rule may not be realistic for your individual financial situation. You may need to allocate a higher percentage to necessities or a lower percentage to wants in order to make ends meet. It doesn't account for irregular expenses.

What is the 40 40 20 budget rule? ›

The 40/40/20 rule comes in during the saving phase of his wealth creation formula. Cardone says that from your gross income, 40% should be set aside for taxes, 40% should be saved, and you should live off of the remaining 20%.

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