7 Financial Mistakes that Make You Feel Poor
The feeling of financial stress and poverty especially among Generation Z often comes from the mismanagement of personal finances.
Below are seven common financial mistakes that may contribute to this feeling:
1. Lack of budgeting
Mistake: You do not keep track of your income and expenses, which leads to spending spree and a lack of control over finances.
Solution: Create a detailed budget that includes all income and expenses. Use personal finance management apps or spreadsheets to keep track of where your money goes.
2. Excessive use of credit cards
Mistake: Accruing credit card debt and paying only the minimum payments.
Solution: Limit your credit card use and try to pay off your debts as quickly as possible. Use credit cards only when it is absolutely necessary and always pay the full amount on time.
3. Lack of savings
Mistake: Not saving a portion of your income for emergencies or future goals.
Solution: Automate your savings by setting up automatic transfers to a deposit account. Try to save at least 10% of your monthly income.
4. Living beyond your means
Mistake: Spending more than you earn to maintain a certain lifestyle.
Solution: Assess your spending and find out where you can save. Live within your means and avoid unnecessary expenses.
5. Unplanned big purchases
Mistake: Impulsive purchases of large items without prior planning or saving.
Solution: Plan big purchases and set aside a budget for them in advance. Think about whether you really need them and how they will affect your budget.
6. Lack of long-term financial goals
Mistake: You do not have clear financial goals or a plan to achieve them.
Solution: Determine short-term and long-term financial goals and create a plan to achieve them. Budget your goals and follow up your progress.
7. Incorrect investment
Mistake: You do not use investment opportunities or make uninformed investments that ends up in losses.
Solution: Learn about the different investment options and choose the ones that match your goals and risk tolerance. Consult a financial advisor if needed.
Avoid these mistakes and implement healthy financial habits and it can help you to improve your financial situation and decrease feelings of poverty.