20 Financial Rules to Live By: Achieving Financial Success and Security

From Budgeting to Investing, Protecting Yourself from Scams to Building Wealth, Here’s Everything You Need to Know about Personal Finance

Personal finance is a crucial aspect of our lives, yet it’s not something that many of us are taught in school. As a result, it can be easy to feel overwhelmed and unsure about how to manage our money effectively. However, by following a few simple financial rules and staying informed about the latest financial trends and tools, you can achieve financial success and security.

In this article, we’ll explore 20 financial rules that you need to live by, covering everything from budgeting and investing to protecting yourself from scams and building long-term wealth. We’ll also discuss some important things you should be aware of when it comes to personal finance, such as the impact of interest rates, inflation, taxes, and life changes on your finances.

Additionally, we’ll provide some tips on how to use financial tools to manage your money effectively, including budgeting apps, investment platforms, and tax preparation software. We’ll also recommend some highly-rated personal finance books that can help you gain a deeper understanding of the principles of personal finance and build long-term wealth.

By following these financial rules and staying informed about the latest financial trends and tools, you can achieve financial stability and create a brighter financial future for yourself and your family. Whether you’re just starting out on your financial journey or looking to improve your existing financial plan, this article will provide you with the knowledge and tools you need to achieve financial success and security.

1. Live within your means

Living within your means is the foundation of financial stability. Simply put, this means that you should spend less than you earn. If you’re consistently spending more than you’re earning, you’re going to end up in debt. This can lead to high levels of stress, and make it difficult to achieve your financial goals.

To live within your means, you need to create a budget that accounts for all of your expenses and income. Make sure that your expenses don’t exceed your income, and look for areas where you can cut back on your spending.

For example, let’s say that your monthly income is $4,000, and your expenses are as follows:

Expense	Monthly Cost
Rent	$1,200
Utilities	$200
Groceries	$500
Entertainment	$300
Transportation	$400
Other	$400

In this scenario, your total monthly expenses add up to $3,000, leaving you with a $1,000 surplus. This surplus can be used to pay down debt, save for the future, or invest.

2. Build an emergency fund

An emergency fund is a crucial component of financial stability. Life is unpredictable, and unexpected expenses can arise at any time. Whether it’s a medical emergency, a car repair, or a job loss, having an emergency fund can provide you with a safety net during difficult times.

Experts recommend that you have three to six months’ worth of living expenses saved in an emergency fund. This will give you a cushion to fall back on in case of an unexpected expense. (In case of emergency use Upgrade or 1st Premier Lender)

For example, if your monthly expenses are $3,000, you should aim to have between $9,000 and $18,000 in your emergency fund.

3. Pay yourself first

Paying yourself first means that you prioritize saving and investing over other expenses. This can be done by setting up automatic transfers from your checking account to a savings or investment account.

By paying yourself first, you ensure that you’re consistently saving and investing, even if other expenses come up. This can help you build wealth over time and achieve your financial goals. (e.g. Axos High Yield Savings or Flare High-Yield Savings Account)

4. Avoid high-interest debt

High-interest debt, such as credit card debt, can be a significant drain on your finances. Interest rates on credit cards can be as high as 20% or more, which means that you’ll be paying a significant amount in interest charges each month.

To avoid high-interest debt, it’s important to pay off your credit card balances in full each month. If you can’t pay off your balance in full, make sure to pay more than the minimum payment to avoid excessive interest charges.

5. Build your credit score

Your credit score is an important factor in your financial life. It can impact your ability to get approved for loans, credit cards, and even jobs.

To build your credit score, make sure to pay your bills on time, keep your credit card balances low, and avoid opening too many new accounts at once.

6. Invest for the long term

Investing is a crucial component of building wealth over time. While there are risks involved in investing, the potential rewards can be significant.

To invest for the long term, it’s important to have a diversified portfolio that includes a mix of stocks, bonds, and other investments. Make sure to do your research and invest in companies and funds that align with your values and long-term goals.

It’s also important to remember that investing is a long-term game. While the stock market can be volatile in the short term, historically, it has provided solid returns over the long term. By investing consistently over time and avoiding the temptation to try to time the market, you can build wealth and achieve your financial goals. (e.g. SoFi Invest or Axos Self-Directed Trading Account – See Axos Bank Review)

7. Save for retirement

Saving for retirement is essential if you want to enjoy a comfortable retirement. Experts recommend saving at least 15% of your income for retirement and starting as early as possible.

One of the easiest ways to save for retirement is to contribute to a 401(k) or other employer-sponsored retirement plan. These plans allow you to contribute pre-tax dollars, which means that you’ll pay less in taxes and your money will grow tax-free until you withdraw it in retirement.

If your employer doesn’t offer a retirement plan, consider opening an individual retirement account (IRA). These accounts also offer tax benefits and can help you save for retirement.

8. Avoid lifestyle inflation

Lifestyle inflation occurs when your expenses increase as your income increases. While it’s natural to want to enjoy the fruits of your labor, lifestyle inflation can make it difficult to achieve your financial goals.

To avoid lifestyle inflation, it’s important to create a budget and stick to it. Make sure to allocate a portion of your income to savings and investments, and avoid increasing your expenses unnecessarily.

9. Have a financial plan

Having a financial plan is essential if you want to achieve your financial goals. A financial plan should include your short-term and long-term goals, as well as a roadmap for achieving them.

Your financial plan should also include a budget, an emergency fund, and a plan for paying off debt. By having a plan in place, you can stay focused on your goals and avoid getting sidetracked by unnecessary expenses.

10. Shop around for insurance

Insurance is an important part of financial stability, but it can be expensive. To get the best deal on insurance, make sure to shop around and compare prices from different providers.

When shopping for insurance, it’s also important to make sure that you’re getting the coverage you need. Don’t skimp on coverage just to save money, as this can end up costing you more in the long run.

11. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket

Diversification is key when it comes to investing. Putting all of your money into one stock or investment can be risky, as you’re putting all of your eggs in one basket.

To reduce your risk, make sure to diversify your investments across different sectors and asset classes. This can help you weather market fluctuations and achieve more consistent returns over time. (Try: Robinhood App)

12. Avoid market timing

Market timing is the practice of trying to predict when the market will go up or down and buying or selling based on those predictions. Unfortunately, this strategy rarely works and can lead to significant losses.

Instead of trying to time the market, focus on investing consistently over time and diversifying your portfolio. This can help you achieve solid returns over the long term, regardless of short-term market fluctuations.

13. Understand the power of compounding

Compounding is the process by which your investments earn returns on both the principal and the accumulated earnings. Over time, this can lead to significant growth in your portfolio.

For example, let’s say that you invest $10,000 in a mutual fund that earns an average annual return of 8%. After 10 years, your investment would be worth $21,589. After 20 years, it would be worth $46,610.

By understanding the power of compounding, you can make informed investment decisions and build wealth over time.

14. Invest in yourself

Investing in yourself can be one of the best investments you ever make. This can include investing in education, professional development, or even your physical and mental health.

By improving your skills and knowledge, you can increase your earning potential and open up new career opportunities. And by prioritizing your health and wellness, you can reduce your healthcare costs and enjoy a better quality of life. (Check: Coursera Free Online Courses)

15. Use credit responsibly

Credit can be a valuable tool for building wealth and achieving your financial goals. However, it’s important to use credit responsibly and avoid taking on too much debt.

To use credit responsibly, make sure to pay your bills on time, keep your balances low, and avoid opening too many new accounts at once. And if you do need to take on debt, make sure that you can afford the payments and that you’re borrowing for a good reason, such as to buy a home or invest in your education. (Check: 10 Credit Card Secrets)

16. Don’t neglect your taxes

Taxes can be complicated, but they’re an important part of your financial life. Neglecting your taxes can lead to penalties and fines, so it’s important to stay on top of your tax obligations.

To avoid issues with your taxes, make sure to keep good records, file your taxes on time, and pay any taxes owed in full. And if you’re unsure about your tax obligations, consider working with a tax professional who can help you navigate the system. (Check: 50 Essential Tips for the this Tax Season)

17. Be mindful of fees

Fees can eat away at your investment returns and reduce your overall wealth. To minimize fees, make sure to shop around for investment options that offer low fees and expense ratios.

When investing in mutual funds or exchange-traded funds (ETFs), make sure to look for funds with low expense ratios. And when working with a financial advisor, make sure to understand their fee structure and how they’re compensated.

18. Don’t let emotions drive your investment decisions

Investing can be an emotional experience, especially when the market is volatile. However, it’s important to avoid letting your emotions drive your investment decisions.

Instead of making decisions based on fear or greed, focus on your long-term goals and stick to your investment plan. And if you’re feeling anxious about the market, consider talking to a financial advisor who can provide guidance and help you stay on track.

19. Keep learning

The financial world is constantly changing, and it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends and developments. By continuing to learn about investing, budgeting, and financial planning, you can make informed decisions and stay on top of your finances.

Consider reading books and articles about personal finance, attending seminars and webinars, or working with a financial advisor who can provide guidance and education.

20. Be patient

Building wealth takes time, and it’s important to be patient and stay focused on your long-term goals. Don’t get discouraged by short-term market fluctuations or setbacks, and remember that slow and steady wins the race.

By staying committed to your financial plan and making consistent progress, you can achieve financial success and enjoy a fulfilling life.

RELATED: 101 Personal Finance Tips

Summary table of financial rules to live by

#	Rule	Success Rate	Difficulty Level	Key Factors
1	Live within your means	High	Low	Discipline, budgeting, willingness to make tough choices
2	Build an emergency fund	High	Low	Consistency, commitment to saving
3	Pay yourself first	High	Low	Automatic transfers, commitment to saving and investing
4	Avoid high-interest debt	High	Medium	Discipline, living within your means
5	Build your credit score	Medium	Low	Consistency, paying bills on time, managing credit responsibly
6	Invest for the long term	High	Medium	Diversified portfolio, long-term focus, commitment
7	Save for retirement	High	Medium	Consistency, commitment to saving
8	Avoid lifestyle inflation	Medium	Low	Discipline, sticking to a budget
9	Have a financial plan	High	Medium	Clear goals, roadmap for achieving them
10	Shop around for insurance	Medium	Medium	Research, comparison of prices and coverage
11	Diversify investments	High	Medium	Spreading risk across sectors, asset classes
12	Avoid market timing	High	High	Discipline, commitment to long-term strategy
13	Understand the power of compounding	High	Low	Basic understanding of investment principles
14	Invest in yourself	High	Medium	Willingness to invest in personal and professional development
15	Use credit responsibly	High	Medium	Discipline, managing credit responsibly
16	Don’t neglect your taxes	High	High	Diligence, commitment to staying on top of tax obligations
17	Be mindful of fees	High	Medium	Research, comparison of fees and expense ratios
18	Don’t let emotions drive investment decisions	High	High	Discipline, sticking to a long-term investment strategy
19	Keep learning	High	Low	Willingness to stay up-to-date on personal finance trends
20	Be patient	High	Low	Long-term perspective, commitment to staying the course

Few things you should be aware of when it comes to personal finance

Interest Rates

Interest rates play a crucial role in your finances, and it’s important to understand how they can impact your financial situation. For example, if you have a savings account, a higher interest rate can help you earn more money on your deposits. On the other hand, if you have debt, a high-interest rate can make it more difficult to pay off your balances.

To stay informed about interest rates, keep an eye on news and economic reports that discuss interest rate trends. You may also want to consider working with a financial advisor who can provide guidance on how to best manage your finances in a changing interest rate environment.

If interest rates are low, you may want to consider taking advantage of this by refinancing your mortgage or consolidating high-interest debt (e.g. CuraDebt). However, be cautious when taking on new debt, as high interest rates can make it more difficult to repay.

Inflation

Inflation refers to the gradual increase in the price of goods and services over time. This can have a significant impact on your finances, as it can erode the value of your money over time. For example, if you have $100 today and inflation is 2%, that same $100 may only be worth $98 next year.

To protect yourself from inflation, it’s important to invest in assets that can keep pace with inflation. Historically, stocks, real estate, and commodities have been good options for hedging against inflation. Make sure to consider inflation when creating your long-term financial plan and factor in the impact of inflation on your future savings and spending. (Check: Fundrise Real Estate Investing)

Taxes

Taxes are a necessary part of your financial life, and it’s important to stay informed about your tax obligations and how to minimize your tax bill. For example, you may want to consider contributing to a tax-advantaged retirement account like a 401(k) or IRA to lower your taxable income.

Working with a tax professional (e.g. TurboTax or H&R Block) can help you maximize your tax deductions and credits and ensure that you’re in compliance with all tax laws and regulations. Make sure to stay informed about changes to the tax code that may impact your finances, and adjust your tax strategy accordingly.

Scams

Unfortunately, there are many scams out there that can cost you money or compromise your personal information. Some common types of financial scams include phishing scams, investment scams, and identity theft scams.

To protect yourself from financial scams, make sure to stay vigilant and be cautious when dealing with unsolicited offers or requests for money or personal information. Don’t click on links or download attachments from emails or text messages that you’re not expecting, and never give out your personal information unless you’re sure it’s safe to do so.

If you think you’ve been the victim of a financial scam, report it to the appropriate authorities and take steps to protect your accounts and personal information. (Check LifeLock Review or Identity Guard Review)

Life Changes

Life changes can have a significant impact on your finances, whether it’s getting married, having children, or losing your job. It’s important to reassess your financial plan regularly and make adjustments as needed to reflect any changes in your life.

For example, if you have a child, you may want to start saving for their college education. If you lose your job, you may need to adjust your budget and cut back on expenses until you find a new job. (Check: How To Avoid Money & Credit Nightmares When Marriage Ends)

Retirement

Retirement planning is an important part of your financial life, and it’s never too early to start thinking about your retirement goals and how you’ll achieve them. Some key factors to consider when planning for retirement include your desired retirement lifestyle, retirement savings goals, and the impact of inflation and taxes on your retirement savings.

Working with a financial advisor can help you develop a retirement plan that takes into account all of these factors and ensures that you’re on track to achieve your retirement goals.

Your Credit Score

The credit score is an important indicator of your financial health, and it can impact everything from your ability to get a loan to the interest rate you’ll pay on a credit card. Your credit score is determined by a number of factors, including your payment history, the amount of debt you have, and the length of your credit history.

To maintain a healthy credit score, make sure to pay your bills on time, keep your credit card balances low, and avoid opening too many new credit accounts at once. You can also check your credit report regularly to make sure that all of the information is accurate and up-to-date. (e.g.: Credit Nerd Credit Report & Score)

If you have a low credit score, there are steps you can take to improve it, such as paying down debt and making sure to pay your bills on time. You may also want to consider working with a credit counselor who can provide guidance on how to improve your credit score. (Check: 9 Things To Know About Your Credit Score)

Your Insurance Needs

Insurance is an important part of financial stability, protecting you from unexpected events such as illness, accidents, or natural disasters. Some common types of insurance include health insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, and homeowners or renters insurance.

Make sure to review your insurance coverage regularly and adjust it as needed to reflect changes in your life and your insurance needs. For example, if you have a child, you may want to consider adding them to your health insurance policy. If you purchase a new home or car, you may need to update your homeowners or auto insurance.

Your Financial Goals

Your financial goals are unique to you, and it’s important to have a clear understanding of what you’re working towards and why. Some common financial goals include saving for retirement, paying off debt, and building an emergency fund.

When setting your financial goals, make sure to set specific, measurable goals and develop a plan for achieving them. This may include creating a budget, increasing your income, or adjusting your investment strategy.

Your Mindset

Your mindset can have a significant impact on your financial success. Make sure to cultivate a mindset of abundance, positivity, and gratitude, and focus on the actions and behaviors that will help you achieve your financial goals.

For example, instead of focusing on what you don’t have, focus on what you do have and how you can use it to achieve your goals. Celebrate your financial successes, no matter how small, and use them as motivation to continue making progress towards your goals. (Check: 101 Personal Finance Tips)

Financial Tools to Help You Manage Your Money

There are many financial tools available to help you manage your money, from budgeting apps to investment platforms. Here are some popular financial tools you may want to consider:

1. Mint: a popular budgeting app that helps you track your spending, create a budget, and set financial goals.
2. SoFi Invest: an investment management platform that can help you track your investments, plan for retirement, and manage your overall financial portfolio.
3. Acorns: an investment app that automatically invests your spare change into a diversified portfolio of stocks and bonds.
4. TransUnion: a free credit monitoring service that provides you with your credit score and credit report information.
5. TurboTax: a tax preparation software that can help you file your taxes quickly and easily.

By using these financial tools, you can simplify your financial management and make it easier to achieve your financial goals.

Books to Help You Build Wealth and Achieve Financial Success

There are many books available on personal finance and wealth-building, and reading them can help you gain a deeper understanding of the financial principles that can help you achieve your goals. Here are five highly-rated personal finance books available on Amazon:

1. “The Total Money Makeover” by Dave Ramsey: This book provides a step-by-step plan for getting out of debt and building wealth.
2. “The Millionaire Next Door” by Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko: This book examines the habits and behaviors of millionaires and provides insights into how to build wealth over time.
3. “Rich Dad Poor Dad” by Robert Kiyosaki: This book teaches financial principles through the story of the author’s two fathers, one of whom was financially successful and one of whom was not.
4. “The Simple Path to Wealth” by JL Collins: This book provides a simple, straightforward approach to investing that can help you achieve financial independence.
5. “Your Money or Your Life” by Vicki Robin and Joe Dominguez: This book provides a holistic approach to personal finance that includes concepts such as financial independence, living below your means, and aligning your spending with your values.

By reading these books and applying their principles to your own financial life, you can gain a deeper understanding of personal finance and take steps to achieve your financial goals.

Conclusion

In conclusion, personal finance is an important aspect of our lives that can have a significant impact on our financial success and security. By following the 20 financial rules outlined in this article, you can take control of your finances and achieve your financial goals.

From setting specific financial goals and developing a plan for achieving them to staying informed about the latest financial trends and tools, there are many steps you can take to achieve financial success. Additionally, by being aware of the impact of interest rates, inflation, taxes, and life changes on your finances, you can make informed decisions about how to manage your money effectively.

Using financial tools such as budgeting apps, investment platforms, and tax preparation software can also help you manage your finances more effectively and achieve your financial goals more quickly. And by reading personal finance books and educating yourself about the principles of personal finance, you can gain the knowledge and tools you need to build long-term wealth and achieve financial security.

Ultimately, the bottom line is that achieving financial success and security requires consistent effort and a commitment to good financial habits. By following the 20 financial rules outlined in this article, staying informed about the latest financial trends and tools, and cultivating a positive, abundance-based mindset, you can achieve your financial goals and create a brighter financial future for yourself and your family.

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