Get ahead of 99% of people financially by:

Most people assume you need a six-figure income or expert-level knowledge of the stock market to become wealthy. In reality, small, consistent habits can make a huge difference. By following these seven steps, you’ll move closer to achieving your financial goals and building long-term freedom.

1. Cook at home more often
Eating out can take a serious toll on your finances, especially if it becomes a daily habit. That doesn’t mean you should never enjoy a night out—but it’s important to recognize how quickly those expenses add up. Grabbing fast food or coffee every day can cost hundreds each month. Cooking at home consistently is one of the simplest ways to save money.

2. Drive a paid-off car (even if it feels embarrassing)
For some people, this can be a tough decision. It requires putting aside what others think in order to prioritize your finances. The average monthly car payment in the U.S. is around $767 for new vehicles. Considering the median monthly income is roughly $3,750–$4,300, that’s about 17–20% of your income going toward a car. Driving a paid-off vehicle can free up a significant portion of your money.

3. Set up automatic investments
Taking a few minutes to automate your investments each month can make a big difference over time. It allows you to consistently invest without having to think about it. Your greatest advantage in investing is time. As the saying goes, “Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world.” Starting early can potentially grow your money into tens—or even hundreds—of thousands of dollars over the long run.

4. Don’t be afraid to thrift
Learning how to find a good deal is a valuable skill. Instead of always buying new and expensive items, take time to shop around for better prices. Thrifting can save you money and often feels more rewarding than buying something brand new.

5. Stick to a budget
Sticking to a budget isn’t always easy. Whether you use apps, spreadsheets, or pen and paper, the key is finding a system that works for you. A solid budget helps you clearly see your financial goals and gives you a plan to achieve them. If you're interested in trying my budgeting spreadsheet click here.

6. Try the 30-day rule
The 30-day rule is simple: if you want to buy something that isn’t a necessity, wait 30 days before purchasing it. If you still want it after that time, you can plan for it financially. More often than not, you’ll realize it was just an impulse purchase and decide you don’t need it.

7. Avoid lifestyle inflation
Lifestyle inflation happens when your spending increases as your income rises. For example, getting a raise and immediately upgrading your car or dining out more often. Instead, try to maintain your current lifestyle and use any extra income to save or invest. This is one of the most powerful ways to build wealth over time.