3 Bad Money Habits That Are Keeping You Poor

How to stop wanting to spend money

Money habits can make or break your financial success. Whether you’re struggling to make ends meet or looking to grow your wealth, it’s essential to recognise and eliminate the habits that are holding you back.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into three common money habits that could be keeping you poor and give you some actionable tips to turn your financial situation around.

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1. Paying Yourself Last

One of the most detrimental money habits is paying yourself last. Many people prioritise paying bills and expenses before considering their own financial well-being.

However, flipping this mindset can make a significant difference in your financial health.
This fundamental principle, inspired by Rich Dad Poor Dad, emphasises paying yourself first rather than waiting until the end of the month to save.

Suggestions for Action:

  • Allocate at least 10% of your paycheck to yourself before paying any bills.
  • Consider using platforms like Monzo for saving and investing, or Freetrade for easy access to investment opportunities.
  • The key takeaway here is to prioritise building your own wealth before enriching others.

2. Not Knowing Your Income & Expenses

Ignorance of your financial situation can lead to poor money management and hinder your ability to build wealth. Understanding your income and expenses is crucial for making informed financial decisions. Categorising your expenses into fundamental costs, fun costs, and savings for the future you can provide clarity and control over your finances.

Suggestions for Action:

  • Implement a system to track your income and expenses regularly.
  • Check out my separate blog post on ‘8 Things You Need to Do on Payday’ for a more detailed guide.
  • Remember, taking control of your finances starts with knowing where your money is going.

3. Not Understanding Taxes

Taxes can be overwhelming and often misunderstood, but they’re a significant expense that can impact your financial well-being. Educating yourself on basic tax rules and utilising them to your advantage can help you keep more of your hard-earned money.

Suggestions for Action:

  • Take the time to understand your tax obligations and available deductions.
  • Consider consulting with a tax professional for personalised advice.
  • Utilise tax-efficient investment strategies such as setting up an ISA account to minimise your tax burden and maximise your wealth.

Breaking free from bad money habits is essential for achieving financial success. By paying yourself first, knowing your income and expenses, and understanding taxes, you can take control of your financial future and build the wealth you desire.

Don’t let these habits keep you poor any longer—take action today to transform your financial situation for the better.

The information provided in this guide is for educational purposes only. Any actions taken based on this information are at the reader’s own risk. It is advisable to consult with relevant professionals or advisors for personalised advice.