Learning to become financially savvy is a must, especially if you are trying to build your way toward living more comfortably. Many people believe that sweating blood is the only way to build wealth; however, becoming financially smart is key. You don’t need to work day and night or invest thousands of dollars in the stock market to achieve financial stability. Money is all about efficiency and how well you can manage your finances. This is why you must make financial intelligence a lifestyle and not just a mere skill. Here are 4 tips from the pros that can help you become financially savvy.
Spend Less, Save More
Before you adopt this habit, you may think that you will be restricting yourself. However, if you earn $4000 each month, and your essential expenses are around $2000, you will be left with $2000. Leave around 40% of the remaining money at your disposal, which would be around $800, and save the rest. The initial $2000 will most likely cover your rent, utility bills, grocery shopping, and other essentials. You may need to cut down on the unnecessary costs for this to work out. However, if you spend in moderation, you should be able to live comfortably within your income. You can apply this saving/ spending method only at first until you save enough money. After you have acquired a good amount of money on the side, you can keep spending 50% on the essentials, spend 30% of the money ($1200) at your discretion, and save the remaining 20% ($800). When you are spending money, it’s always good to ask yourself if you really need what you’re purchasing. You don’t necessarily have to deprive yourself; treating yourself from time to time is encouraged, however, be mindful of your purchases.
401K or IRA
Now that you know how you can start saving your money, consider saving up for your retirement plan. The financial advisors at moneymash.com advise you to explore your ROTH IRA options. You can also ask about your payroll plan at your workplace; having an employer that matches your 401K plan is a huge advantage. If you are self-employed, you can explore the options that the state government offers. It’s never too early to start saving for your retirement plan; a couple of years of early saving can make a difference, and you will thank yourself later. You don’t have to start investing at 10%; your 401K can be started at a lower percentage and can be gradually built up until you reach 10%. Every time you get a raise, you can direct a part of it toward your retirement efforts.
Credit Cards
If you have credit cards, you need to pay them off immediately. Otherwise, you may end up paying off additional interest and late payment fees. There are many methods that you can try out to help you pay off your debts strategically. Not only will that help you manage your money more efficiently, but you can get many benefits out of keeping your cards at a zero balance. Find out what advantages your credit card company can offer; some of them can provide airline miles benefits and rebates. It is a risk-free way to get returns that average up to around 14%, according to the Federal Reserve Bank of Boston.
Choosing Funds
When you are saving up and investing, you will be faced with endless options and opinions. The variety, complexity, and advice of others can leave you overwhelmed. However, always remember that finances are very personal and that what works for someone else may not work for you. Focus on what you can work with, along with your level of experience. The best way to go on about your funds is by choosing simple mutual funds, at least at first, instead of investing in exchange-traded funds, annuities, and other complex concepts.
People should start viewing the concept of being financially savvy from another angle. Being financially smart should be more than a financial skill. It should be a concept that is learned, nurtured, and developed. Even if you are currently adopting healthy financial habits, you should never stop searching for ways to make your money-managing strategies more efficient. Finances are personal, which is why you should never compare your efforts to others and always remember that not all advice may work for you; although, scalable tips will do the trick. The key is to remain mindful and celebrate even the smallest milestones. Every effort will make a difference- you just need to start somewhere.