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You probably aren't the first person to ask how to be financially responsible in your 20s. During your 20’s, it's all too easy to frivolously spend however much money you have, racking up the debt without thinking too much about the consequences.
Learning to manage your money for the first time can be overwhelming, but there is hope! In today’s post, we’ve shared some simple ways you can take control of your finances during your 20’s so that you can reap the benefits later in life (whilst still enjoying your youth, of course!).
1) Invest in Yourself
Although retirement feels like a lifetime away, your 20’s are often the best time to start saving and even try your hand at investing. If the stock market seems intimidating, why not try investing into a pension pot first?
You’re making an investment for your future - and that’s possibly the highest form of self-care there is.
“Don't think of saving for retirement as subtracting money from your paycheck or checking account”.
Consider these investments as automatic payments to your future self. You’ll be thankful that you did when the time comes around!
2) Learn to Budget
“Budgeting isn’t about limiting yourself - it’s about making the things that excite you possible”.
Establishing a budget in your 20’s is absolutely essential in gaining control over your finances.
Your balance might look great once payday comes around, but once you subtract the rent, bills, and other bits that add up e.g. groceries and drinks with friends, the final result isn’t so pretty!
Sticking to a budget every month teaches you the invaluable skill of self-discipline. You know exactly what’s coming out and when, and it may open your eyes to just how much you’re spending on those seemingly harmless takeaways throughout the week!
3) Be a Goal-Getter
“The moment you put a deadline on your dream, it becomes a goal”.
Grab a pen and paper and ask yourself some questions to determine your financial goals. For example, what’s your current financial situation? If your goal is to become more financially independent, ask yourself what’s holding you back from this and create small actionable steps to get there.
Whether your goal is to save up enough for your first home or pay off the debt accumulated in your early 20’s, it’s completely okay if your goals differ from your friends.
Your goals should be tailored to you and your unique path - that’s what’ll help you stick to them!
4) Reward Your Progress
Being a financially responsible twenty-something definitely doesn’t mean you have to resign yourself to a life of staying in.
It’s important to still make time to treat yourself every once in a while, and reward yourself for all the progress you’ve made (especially if you’ve bagged yourself a little side-hustle to bring in some extra pennies).
Obviously we’re not suggesting you go absolutely wild and spend all your savings on an all-inclusive getaway to Greece, but you can spend a little extra one month on that handbag or gig tickets you’ve been longing for.
There are also tons of fun ideas for things to do that don’t break the bank. For example, having a picnic in the park with your friends (British weather permitting!) or even trying your hand at making some homemade cocktails straight from the kitchen.
“You can do both. Save money AND live your life. Invest in your future AND enjoy the present. Pay off debt AND have fun.”
If you struggle with budgeting and don’t know where to start, why not try the ImageNPay app? With a prepaid digital card you can budget your money securely and easily.
Find out more here.
Download for FREE today - now available on iOS, Android, and Apple Pay.
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