When I was in my 20’s, I was fortunate enough to have a good job. I also started a new side hustle, which has allowed me to earn more income.
Although I earned more money, I did not handle my financial blessings wisely.
Looking back now, I think I was so uncomfortable with having money in the bank that I thought of any way to spend it. I helped family members with their bills, with new cars, and I went out and had fun a lot.
Focus on Your Family Needs Before Others
It’s amazing to help your family, but when the timing is right. I was sitting on a house of cards. I had a good income, but no discipline to manage it properly.
This is the mistake I am trying to get my kids to avoid when they are young adults.
When I look back at all the money I could have saved and how much good I could have done by giving. It makes me regretful.
Giving
Today, though, is a new day, and every day we can do better. Have you ever heard of the word stewardship?
Stewardship is the management of things. In a Christian sense, it is the management of all that belongs to God. In a financial sense, our money belongs to God.
If we are blessed to have money in our bank accounts, we need to be good stewards of that money.
Money can be a blessing for the good it can do, or a curse if we do not manage it properly.
When I was young, I never budgeted my money; I just paid bills, used credit cards for random spending, and I couldn’t even tell you what I spent that money on. I had a ton of fun with my friends and just lived for the present.
Don’t get me wrong… I’m not saying we should not spend money on fun experiences and things.
Just spend responsibly by saving, budgeting, and tithing or giving.
Growing and Learning Better Ways to Manage Money
I have learned so much by reading, practicing, and learning new habits to be better with money.
Any of the books by Dave Ramsey have been very helpful in establishing a foundation.
I know a lot of people either love Dave Ramsey’s advice or totally disagree and don’t follow it. Personally, it has helped me focus on getting out of debt and saving money.
Recently, I have read Simple Money, Rich Life by blogger and podcaster Bob Lotich.
Great read with lots of excellent advice and habits to incorporate.
The main lesson is to act today to make tomorrow better.
Think of one step you can take today to move you in the right direction.
Now go do it.
