Finance 101 if you’re under 24

The good news is that you don’t need a fancy degree to manage your finances; once you understand the basics, you can start living your best financial life.

5 Basic finance tips:

1. Spend less than you earn
It can seem difficult to do when you see that new pair of sneakers but being responsible with how you spend your money is crucial to your financial wellbeing. Staying disciplined about spending within your means will help you keep out of debt and on track for a healthy financial future.

2. Know where your money is going
A budget is the easiest and most effective way to create a plan for your money:

•  Work out how much you earn after tax; this is the real amount you’ve got to get through the month.
• Create a list of what you’re spending your money on each month and add it up.
• Review that list to see whether you can cut some expenses. The goal is for your expenses to be less than your after-tax amount and to have some left over to save.
• It doesn’t need to be restrictive, just realistic so you can control your spending according to your priorities and work towards achieving your goals.

3. Understand how credit works
Accessing credit, e.g. through a credit card, makes life convenient, and it helps you build a credit score, which will work in your favour when you need to borrow money for a house or a car one day. However, if you’re constantly overspending, paying back the money becomes more expensive and can put you in a debt trap. Not only is it stressful but it reflects badly on your credit score and your ability to do the things you want in the future.

4. Get into the habit of saving

• Dedicate a certain amount of your income every month to savings and do it before you start spending your money.
• Set money aside for ‘surprise expenses’ (e.g. a flat tyre or medical emergency). This will help lessen the blow when you’ve got to cover the cost of something unexpected.
• Consistency is key. Even small amounts add up.
• The biggest advantage of starting to save when you’re young is that it gives you more time for your savings and investments to grow.

5. Don’t try to keep up with your friends
When it seems everyone except you is going on expensive holidays or making big strides in life, it’s easy to feel left behind, but trying to compete will just put you back even further. Remember, you’re on your own financial journey, and you’re not obliged to keep up with anyone else’s lifestyle. Stick to your goals and you’ll get there.