Smart Strategies That 30-Year Old Millionaires Learn Before the Rest of Us
Taking the time to learn a few basic rules of saving, investing, and spending can help you build a healthy financial future. Most young and wealthy individuals aren’t necessarily smarter than the rest of us, but they learn a few key tricks about saving and smart spending habits. Starting as early as possible can make an enormous difference when it comes to building wealth throughout your 20s. Here are some key fundamentals that 30-Year-Old Millionaires learn at a young age and use to grow their wealth.
Side Hustles
In today’s gig economy, having a side hustle is more feasible than ever. Whether freelance writing, graphic design, or selling handmade goods, find something you’re passionate about to supplement your income and hone your entrepreneurial skills. It’s a step towards creating multiple income streams.
Smart Spending
Impulse buys can quickly derail your financial goals. Next time you’re tempted, apply the 30-day rule: wait 30 days before making a non-essential purchase. Often, the urge to buy will pass, saving you money. It’s a simple tactic to curb unnecessary spending.
Credit Wisdom
Credit cards are a double-edged sword. Used wisely, they can build your credit score and offer rewards. Ensure you pay off the balance each month to avoid interest charges. It’s a step towards financial credibility and future loans.
Investing
The stock market can seem daunting, but it’s accessible even for beginners. Start with small, manageable investments in companies you believe in. Use apps or platforms that cater to young investors. It’s about long-term growth, not overnight success.
Power of Saving and Compounding Money
Saving might seem old-fashioned, but it’s the bedrock of financial growth. Start by setting aside a small portion of your income or pocket money each month. Watch as this grows over time, teaching you the value of patience and discipline. Before you know it, you’ll have a sizable amount to invest in more significant opportunities.
Budgeting Basics
Creating a budget isn’t just for adults with bills; it’s for everyone who earns or receives money. List your monthly expenses, no matter how small, and compare them to your income. This exercise will help you identify unnecessary expenditures and increase your savings. It’s the first step towards financial independence.
Mastering Second-Hand
Thrifting is a savvy financial strategy. By choosing second-hand, you can save a substantial amount while still enjoying quality goods. This approach extends beyond clothes to furniture, electronics, and more. It’s an eco-friendly way to stretch your dollars further.
Managing Irregular Income
Freelancing offers freedom but comes with financial fluctuations. Learn to manage your income by saving aggressively during high-earning months. This will sustain you during leaner periods. It’s all about balancing feast and famine.
Minimalist Money
Embracing minimalism isn’t just about decluttering your space; it’s about prioritizing your spending. Focus on what truly adds value to your life and cut out the rest. This philosophy can lead to significant savings and a more fulfilling lifestyle. It’s about quality over quantity.
Financial Literacy
Educate yourself about financial basics, from interest rates to investment vehicles. Plenty of resources, from books to podcasts, cater to young adults. Understanding these concepts will empower you to make informed decisions. Knowledge is your greatest asset.
Retirement Planning
It’s never too early to think about retirement. Even small contributions to a retirement fund can grow significantly over time, thanks to compound interest. Utilizing tax-advantaged retirement accounts could help you reduce taxes both now and in the future if done correctly.
Negotiation
Learning to negotiate effectively can boost your income and savings. Whether it’s negotiating your salary, a freelance rate, or a discount on a purchase, the art of negotiation is invaluable. Practice makes perfect. It’s about knowing your worth and asking for it.
Managing Student Loans and Debt
For many young adults, student loans are a reality. Understanding your loan terms and exploring repayment options can save you thousands in the long run. Consider programs like loan forgiveness for certain professions. It’s about smart management, not just repayment. Also depending on the interest rate, sometime it might pay to prioritize saving and investing over paying down low-interest rate debt
Josh Dudick
Josh is a financial expert with over 15 years of experience on Wall Street as a senior market strategist and trader. His career has spanned from working on the New York Stock Exchange floor to investment management and portfolio trading at Citibank, Chicago Trading Company, and Flow Traders.
Josh graduated from Cornell University with a degree from the Dyson School of Applied Economics & Management at the SC Johnson College of Business. He has held multiple professional licenses during his career, including FINRA Series 3, 7, 24, 55, Nasdaq OMX, Xetra & Eurex (German), and SIX (Swiss) trading licenses. Josh served as a senior trader and strategist, business partner, and head of futures in his former roles on Wall Street.
Josh's work and authoritative advice have appeared in major publications like Nasdaq, Forbes, The Sun, Yahoo! Finance, CBS News, Fortune, The Street, MSN Money, and Go Banking Rates. Josh currently holds areas of expertise in investing, wealth management, capital markets, taxes, real estate, cryptocurrencies, and personal finance.
Josh currently runs a wealth management business and investment firm. Additionally, he is the founder and CEO of Top Dollar, where he teaches others how to build 6-figure passive income with smart money strategies that he uses professionally.