Learning the friendly way
Dive into our resources, guides, and articles for all things money-related. Grow your financial confidence with our experts curated tips and articles for both experienced and new investors.
Latest posts
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63ce7b0ee546a54b9c8f3f25/66d5ab19ceb20a35d4d67dfe_Bz.webp)
Crypto's 'boring zone' is here. Learn why staying patient during this lull could be your best move yet
The crypto market has entered a phase that veterans often call the "boring zone." It's a time when Bitcoin's price seems stuck, fluctuating between $50,000 and $70,000 for months. Altcoins are in an even deeper slumber, with many down 50-80% from their peaks. Trading volumes on major exchanges have plummeted, dropping 30% from the last bull market's heights.
Sound familiar? It should. This lull is a recurring theme in the crypto market cycle, and historically, it's often the calm before the storm. It’s also a common attribute after a recent Bitcoin halving. Let's look at what happened after previous Bitcoin halvings:
- 2012 Halving: 92 days until a new all-time high
- 2016 Halving: 291 days until a new all-time high
- 2020 Halving: 216 days until a new all-time high
For perspective, 28 July 2024 marks 100 days from the most recent halving, with 25 February 2025 marking the 300-day mark.
The power of patient trading
Trading cryptocurrencies over longer time horizons can be likened to early-stage ventures, where patience can sometimes lead to significant outcomes. While past performance doesn't guarantee future results, historical examples like Ethereum and Solana illustrate this potential. Ethereum, launching at less than $1 in 2014, and Solana, starting below $1 in 2020, have since seen their values grow to over $3,000 and $140 respectively as of early 2024.
In the crypto space, what’s known as the HODL approach emphasizes the power of time and compound growth, similar to that of traditional asset classes. The idea is straightforward: if you've taken a position in a project you believe has strong fundamentals, maintaining that position through periods of high volatility could potentially lead to significant gains. To illustrate this point further, in 2010, Bitcoin was worth less than $0.01. By April 2024, it had reached around $70,000. A buyer who purchased $100 worth of Bitcoin in 2010 and held it until 2024 would have seen their portfolio grow to millions of dollars.
Strategies for surviving (and thriving) in the "boring zone"
During quiet periods in crypto, it's helpful to dive deeper into blockchain fundamentals and research promising projects instead of anxiously checking prices or reacting to every piece of news.
Alternatively, for those with available capital, dollar-cost averaging (DCA) could be something to consider. A Vanguard study found that DCA outperformed lump-sum contributions in 68% of cases during market downturns, highlighting its potential effectiveness in notoriously volatile markets.
Know with certainty that this "boring zone" is often temporary. Based on previous cycles, we might see a new Bitcoin all-time high in 30 to 150 days, and once Bitcoin breaks its previous record, top altcoin projects have historically seen gains of 200% to 1,000%.
By staying patient and disciplined during quiet periods, you can be prepared for potential opportunities that may arise as the crypto market evolves. Remember, while historical patterns offer insights, they don't guarantee future results, but these historical patterns are worth considering as you plan your approach.
We get it, the waiting game is hard
Holding onto your crypto during boring market times can be tougher than you'd think. When prices aren't moving much, it's easy to get antsy or start doubting your choices. But keeping a cool head and being rational is key to long-term success.
First off, remember why you got into crypto in the first place. Was it the tech? The potential? Keep that big picture in mind. It helps to set realistic expectations too—crypto's known for its ups and downs, so flat periods are normal. Try to limit how often you check prices. Constantly peeking at your portfolio can drive you nuts during slow times. Instead, focus on other parts of your life or dive deeper into learning about blockchain.
Connecting with other crypto enthusiasts can help too. Chat about ideas, not just prices. And don't forget to celebrate small wins—even if the market's quiet, projects are still developing and growing. Stay patient, stay curious, and remember: in crypto, today's boredom could be tomorrow's excitement.
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63ce7b0ee546a54b9c8f3f25/66c347c65a750a8ef55ffcaf_bitcoin-atm.webp)
Discover easy methods to locate Bitcoin ATMs in your area and learn about online tools, mobile apps, and tips for finding the closest crypto kiosk quickly.
Much like traditional ATMs, Bitcoin ATMs are specialized ATMs that allow users to buy or sell Bitcoin using cash, bank transfers or debit cards. These machines provide a convenient way to exchange traditional currency for cryptocurrency, or vice versa. In this article, we’re doing a deep dive on everything you need to know about using Bitcoin ATMs, including how to find one.
The benefits of using a Bitcoin ATM
There are a number of reasons one might look to use a Bitcoin ATM instead of an exchange or wallet app.
- Convenience
Easily buy and sell Bitcoin without complex online processes.
- Instant transactions
No waiting for bank transfers or exchange processing.
- No bank account needed
Accessible to unbanked individuals.
- Anonymity and privacy
Higher degree of privacy compared to online exchanges, appealing to those valuing financial discretion. Smaller transactions often require minimal personal information.
Security concerns when using a Bitcoin ATM
Bitcoin ATMs offer a quick, accessible way to enter the cryptocurrency market, especially for those seeking more privacy or lacking traditional banking options. However, there are also downsides one should be aware of:
- Fraud and theft risks
ATMs can be targets for criminals. Always be aware of your surroundings and use ATMs in well-lit, public areas.
- Secure your Bitcoin wallet
Ensure that your Bitcoin wallet is ironclad, using strong passwords with two-factor authentication. Also, ensure that if using an exchange wallet that the platform is reliable and regulated.
- Tips for safe Bitcoin ATM transactions
- Verify all transaction details before confirming
- Don’t share sensitive information with anyone
- Don't accept help from strangers
- Keep your receipt
- Monitor your wallet for discrepancies
By staying alert and following these precautions, you can safely use Bitcoin ATMs while minimizing security risks.
Fees associated with using a Bitcoin ATM
Bitcoin ATM fees typically consist of transaction fees (usually a percentage) and network fees for Bitcoin transfers. These rates can vary significantly between ATMs and operators, so it's best to use online comparison tools to find the best deals.
To minimize costs, consider using ATMs with lower fees, even if they're less convenient. And note that conducting larger transactions can reduce the impact of flat fees, while alternative methods might be more cost-effective for smaller amounts.
Keep in mind that Bitcoin ATM fees are generally higher than those on online exchanges, so always check the fee structure before transacting to avoid unexpected costs.
How to find a Bitcoin ATM near me
Finding a Bitcoin ATM near you is easier than you might think, with various online tools and local resources at your disposal. Whether you prefer using Google, mobile apps, or exploring your local area, there are multiple ways to find a Bitcoin ATM near you.
- Online directories and maps
• Use websites like Coin ATM Radar or Bitcoin.com ATM Map
• Enter your location to find nearby ATMs
• Filter results by buy/sell options and supported cryptocurrencies
- Mobile apps
• Download apps like Bitcoin ATM Map or CoinATMRadar
• Enable location services for real-time nearby ATM info
• Get directions and ATM details on-the-go
- Local businesses and retail locations
• Check convenience stores, gas stations, and shopping malls
• Ask cryptocurrency-friendly businesses for recommendations
• Look for Bitcoin ATM signage in high-traffic areas
Remember to verify the ATM's legitimacy and compare fees before you use one. Not all Bitcoin ATMs are created equal, do your research.
How to use a Bitcoin ATM for buying/selling crypto
Once you’ve DYOR and found a reliable Bitcoin ATM, using it is straightforward. To buy or sell cryptocurrency, start by selecting your transaction type on the machine's interface.
You'll typically need to verify your identity by scanning an ID or entering a phone number, depending on the amount you’d like to buy or sell and your local regulations. Next, enter your wallet address or scan its QR code.
For buying, insert cash and for selling, send Bitcoin to the provided address. Once the transaction is processed, you'll receive a confirmation and receipt. Keep this safe until the Bitcoin has been deposited into your wallet.
As with any crypto transaction, always double-check all details before finalizing your transaction.
An easier alternative: Tap into the future
Why hunt for Bitcoin ATMs when you can have a crypto exchange in your pocket? The Tap app revolutionizes how you can buy and sell cryptocurrencies. No more searching for ATMs or carrying cash - simply open the app and trade a wide range of digital assets instantly.
With bank-grade security and the freedom to transact anywhere, anytime, Tap offers unparalleled convenience. Enjoy lower fees, a sleek interface, and portfolio management in one secure location (your phone).
Whether you're a crypto novice or a seasoned trader, Tap delivers a seamless experience that traditional ATMs can't match. Ready to upgrade your crypto game? Tap into the future of digital asset trading.
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63ce7b0ee546a54b9c8f3f25/66c34732eda263cfa5a8c703_buy-btc-etoro.webp)
Learn the step-by-step process of buying Bitcoin on eToro as well as the risks and benefits of trading BTC.
Interested in buying Bitcoin on eToro but not sure where to begin? You’ve come to the right place. In this guide, we’ll show you how to buy Bitcoin easily through the eToro platform. Whether you’re looking to buy Bitcoin for the first time, or following an exciting crypto opportunity, you’ll find everything you need to know here.
What is eToro?
EToro is an online platform that blends social networking with financial trading tools, allowing users to trade stocks, ETFs, and cryptocurrencies in a user-friendly environment without needing technical expertise or separate digital wallets.
EToro’s standout feature, "copytrading," enables users to mimic successful traders' strategies, while also facilitating direct trading between users, further enhancing that social aspect.
How to buy Bitcoin on eToro: a step-by-step guide
Follow these steps to buy Bitcoin on eToro with ease.
1. Create an account on the eToro website
To buy Bitcoin on eToro, you first need to create an account on their website. Go to eToro's website and click the “Sign Up” or “Get Started” option, then enter your details.
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63ce7b0ee546a54b9c8f3f25/66c318e5efe436a13b00a502_AD_4nXfuDrXoEzQG4c4OAoCFvrZPY1JRpmCmjIwnIlJbJbYXfaWYftYu1QaH4oGwoCvkBopHjdG56fXYpfxsTjDorcnzr8ZCQeEA4tihosUG0DAk_Dy2YKxobq6FyfDkOJXRmVfQg-sEKLtG0C_9uTT1WMEi5cI.jpeg)
2. Verify your identity
After creating your account, you will need to verify your identity by providing proof of identification in the form of proof of address and photo ID. Click on the verification link sent to your email and follow the instructions to complete this step. When complete, click on the “verify account” button on the dashboard and wait for the confirmation email from the platform before proceeding,
3. Deposit funds
To buy Bitcoin, you will need funds loaded into your account. eToro offers a variety of payment methods including credit cards, debit cards, bank transfers, and e-wallets like PayPal, Neteller and Skrill. Select your preferred payment method and complete the necessary steps.
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63ce7b0ee546a54b9c8f3f25/66c318e5b27a9375b3d63f12_AD_4nXfNUwXBmZCkUNziSPrESI4j_PvVA8f-ngxObdoDfnxPM54ZobsCnVFBqb_D5Rjz_5Eh103kKwsDvaozHHnFvn0pr87xvfkaKNOmI91kwRCvjchhcdn-WVQS2_mgGDqInp4utPu7Ly3zRjE4FtwJbzkwNGTw.png)
3. Navigate to the Bitcoin buying page
Once your account is verified, navigate to the Bitcoin buying page on eToro. Type “Bitcoin” or “BTC” into the search box, select it from the list of cryptocurrencies listed and then click the “Trade” button to go to the Bitcoin page.
From there, select BUY and ensure that the option on the right says “Trade”. This will allow you to buy BTC at the current market price, as displayed.
4. Select the amount of Bitcoin you’d like to buy
On the Bitcoin buying page, you can choose the amount of Bitcoin you wish to purchase. Enter the desired quantity and click on the 'Buy' button, or enter the units you would like to purchase.
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63ce7b0ee546a54b9c8f3f25/66c318e5f2b88179fe67a22c_AD_4nXdOI1l2rLkz8SIQ0CI2EnP4sio3ESwS15Utjoe4HrvBksmy8Qgqtprm7fJPDYAzKfT06AOdlvZe84wbm6PRvmdIba8c8CEUmXubkRQuA18EeQMk36bo1n9YudV8I5n9koI7mQGnIBjFN_f4TAFrXiY8lIql.png)
6. Confirm the trade
Before finalizing your trade, double-check all the details including the amount of Bitcoin, payment method, and transaction fee. Click on the 'Confirm' button to complete the purchase.
The funds will then appear on your dashboard, held for you in a designated wallet.
Risks and benefits of trading Bitcoin on eToro
Risks of trading Bitcoin
1. Volatility: Bitcoin prices can be highly volatile, leading to the possibility of significant gains or losses in a short period of time.
2. Security risks: Cryptocurrency exchanges like eToro can be vulnerable to hacking and theft, potentially putting your trade at risk.
3. Regulatory uncertainty: The regulatory environment for cryptocurrencies is constantly evolving, which could impact the value and legality of Bitcoin holdings.
Benefits of trading Bitcoin
1. Diversification: Adding Bitcoin to your portfolio can help diversify risk and potentially increase returns over the long term.
2. Potential for high returns: Despite the risks, Bitcoin has shown the potential for significant gains, making it an attractive option for some.
3. Hedge against inflation: Bitcoin's limited supply and decentralized nature may make it a potential hedge against inflation and currency devaluation, offering protection for wealth in uncertain economic times.
Tips for managing risks and maximizing benefits:
- Do thorough research before trading Bitcoin.
- Only use money that you can afford to lose.
- Diversify your portfolio to spread risk.
- Stay informed about market trends, information and regulations affecting Bitcoin.
An eToro alternative: Tap into the future
While eToro offers a user-friendly way to buy Bitcoin, savvy traders often explore multiple platforms to find the best fit for their needs. As the cryptocurrency market evolves, new platforms emerge with innovative features and competitive advantages.
For instance, some newer fintech solutions, like Tap, streamline the buying process even further, offering enhanced security measures and more diverse crypto portfolios. These platforms often provide additional perks like lower fees, faster transactions, or more intuitive interfaces.
As you consider your options for purchasing Bitcoin, it's worth exploring these emerging alternatives. They might offer features that better align with your financial goals and trading style. Remember, the best platform for you depends on your individual needs, experience level, and long-term financial objectives.
Explore Tap’s website or download the app to get started, the processes are simplified and seamlessly guide you through all the features on the app.
Tips for successful Bitcoin trading
Lastly, no matter where you choose to buy and store your Bitcoin, here are some trading tips to ensure you do it right.
Set financial goals
Before starting your Bitcoin trading journey, it is essential to define clear financial goals. Whether you are looking for short-term profits or long-term growth, having a clear plan in place will help guide your trading decisions.
Diversify your portfolio
It is important to not put all your eggs in one basket when it comes to Bitcoin trading. Diversifying your portfolio by trading in a mix of different assets can help mitigate risk and increase your chances of success.
Stay informed about market trends
Keeping up-to-date with the latest market trends and news is crucial for successful Bitcoin trading. By staying informed, you can make more informed decisions and stay ahead of the curve.
Use stop-loss orders for risk management
One key strategy for managing risk in Bitcoin trading is to use stop-loss orders. These orders automatically sell your assets if they reach a certain price, helping you cut losses and protect your assets.
![](https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/63ce7b0ee546a54b9c8f3f25/66543eadaad3d035ebf3222f_bullrun_2024.png)
2024: Get ready for a Bitcoin rollercoaster! Dive into halvings and market vibes. Are we heading for a crypto thrill ride?
This year has seen a gradual but significant improvement in cryptocurrency prices from the chilly crypto winter of 2022. Factors such as cooling inflation and a more relaxed macroeconomic situation have given crypto the space to turn upward and settle in the green. While the road to recovery (to 2021 prices) might be long, there is definite hope on the horizon.
Before we dive in, let’s first review the previous crypto bull runs associated with halvings. When it comes to bull runs, there is a historical pattern of prices rising several months after a Bitcoin halving. This effect tends to take place twelve to eighteen months after the halving event.
This article tends to focus heavily on Bitcoin as the cryptocurrency holds a lot of weight in the industry. Bitcoin market trends tend to dictate the way forward for many other altcoins, while this isn’t black and white, it tends to be the norm. When Bitcoin enters a bull run, so too do other cryptocurrencies, and when the Bitcoin price is down, the same applies.
What is a Bitcoin halving?
Satoshi Nakamoto, the creator of Bitcoin, strongly believed that scarcity creates value. When designing Bitcoin, it was decided that there would only ever be 21 million coins, and while these can be broken down into small decimal places, there is no changing that maximum supply.
In order to leverage the scarcity and ensure an even distribution of new coins entering circulation, Nakamoto designed a halving mechanism. The mechanism ensures that the currency remains deflationary, controls how many new coins enter circulation, and plays little havoc on the market.
To understand how a halving works, one must first understand how Bitcoins are mined. Through a decentralized network, new transactions are entered into a mempool while they await confirmation. Miners will then compete to verify them by completing a complex cryptographical puzzle. The first miner to successfully complete the puzzle is awarded the job of verifying the transactions as well as earning the rewards.
Once all the transactions have been verified they are executed and the data from each transaction is added to a block, which is added to the blockchain in chronological order. The miner then receives a transaction fee from each transaction as well as a miner's reward for adding a new block to the blockchain.
Every 210,000 blocks, roughly four years, this reward is halved, making it a significant factor in what is known as the halving experiences. In 2009, the miner's reward was 50 BTC, today it is worth 6.25 BTC. While the price tends to increase substantially, the reward is automatically halved at these intervals. Written into its code, the halvings are automated activities that cannot be altered.
Reviewing previous bull runs
Bitcoin's first mini bull run
The first recorded "bull run" in the crypto sector took place in April 2011 when the price of Bitcoin rose 3,000% over the space of three months. After reaching $1 in April 2011, the coin went on to reach $32 in June. However, this price increase was short-lived as the price returned to $2 in November.
The next year the cryptocurrency underwent its first halving in November, ending the year between the $13 and $14 price mark.
2012 halving / 2013 bull run
In the first few months after the halving, the price rose from $13 to $30. By April, one Bitcoin was trading for $100, its then all-time high, spurring interest from curious outsiders. By November, twelve months after the initial halving, Bitcoin broke the $1,000 barrier. This too was short-lived as the price dropped to around $530 a month later.
2016 halving / 2017 bull run
The next halving took place in July 2016, when the price was trading at around $600. After years of the Bitcoin price bouncing between $100 and $900, it finally hit the $1,000 mark again in January 2017, six months after the halving. By mid-May, the price had doubled to $2,000, and by December of the same year, the price sky-rocketed to just under $20,000.
Sparking a Bitcoin frenzy, the digital asset became a hot topic in mainstream media and many market participants hopped on the bandwagon. This also sparked widespread development within the industry, with many altcoins being launched and what has become known as the "ICO craze". Due to the quick ascent of this nascent technology, user adoption and regulation became prominent topics of discussion in financial and regulatory circles.
By December 2018, just a year later, the price had shrunk to $3,236, while in December 2019, Bitcoin was trading at $7,200.
2020 halving / 2021 bull run
In 2020 the world was struck by the Covid-19 pandemic, causing unprecedented damage to economies around the world. While Bitcoin and other digital currencies took a knock, the industry proved to be much more resilient than most other traditional markets.
Dropping almost 50% to lows of $4,900 in March 2020, the price gradually recovered to $9,000 in May when the next halving took place. The upward price trend continued its climb, reaching $29,374 in December, another all-time high.
In the early months of 2021, the Bitcoin price doubled in value reaching $64,000 in April. By July, it was trading around $30,000 again before skyrocketing to $68,000 in November. By January 2022 the price had corrected to $35,000 before the market was faced with several unfavorable factors.
Markets around the world took another hit when Russia declared war on Ukraine, sending the price of everyday items including fuel soaring. Governments increased interest rates to the highest they've been in decades, and global supply chain issues caused by the pandemic continued to drive upset.
With the world in financial uncertainty, not to mention the demise of several cryptocurrency networks and exchanges, many participants pulled their money from the crypto markets as well as tech-based stock investment markets. This saw the price of Bitcoin dip below the $20,000 mark for the first time in two years, causing widespread uncertainty and speculation.
2022 was officially declared a crypto winter and while prices rose roughly 29% year-on-date, 2023 wasn’t the promised land that crypto enthusiasts had dreamed of.
Are we headed toward the next crypto bull run?
Price increases aside, the Bitcoin Fear and Greed meter observed ( at the time of writing) a hopeful incline from a state of “Extreme fear” to a “Greed” greed rating. This measure of market sentiment is a vast improvement from 2022 and, alongside expert analysis, indicates that the cryptocurrency has moved into the accumulation phase. According to the Wyckoff market cycles, this is the prerequisite to the mark-up phase and indicates the end of a bear cycle.
The digital asset market remains volatile and unpredictable, and one cannot predict what might happen in the coming months or even years. What we do know is that historically bull runs have succeeded halvings, so grab your popcorn we should be in for an interesting ride.
Discover the top five habits of millionaires and how to adopt them in your everyday life.
We might all view success differently, but at the end of the day, we want to have enough money to allow us to live debt-free, stress-free, and with a positive retirement ahead of us. While we’re not advocating that being a millionaire is the be-all and end-all, we are looking to them to see what small changes we can implement into our lives to better steer our own financial paths.
A few basic principles of self-made millionaires
Below we explore 5 habits that the average millionaire does, according to a plethora of data collected by Tom Corley. Over five years he asked 233 millionaires 20 broad questions (and 144 sub-questions) concerning their daily activities. These were the results.
1. They never stop learning
U.S. President Harry Truman is known for saying, "Not all readers are leaders, but all leaders are readers." Self-made millionaires prioritize learning and self-improvement, with 49% saying that they spent a few minutes every day learning new words. 61% said that they spent at least two hours a day practicing new skills.
Reading plays a vital role in this process, with 71% often reading self-help books while 63% said listened to audiobooks during periods of commute. It was noted that most of the case studies admitted to reading biographies of successful people, typically wealthy people who had built something from the ground up.
Health was another top priority.
2. They are aware of their weaknesses, and delegate accordingly
86% of the millionaires interviewed worked an average a minimum of fifty hours a week. While the hours are impressive, these millionaires committed time to build and surround themselves with great teams. They focused on their strengths and outsourced their weaknesses.
No one is a jack of all trades, and these successful individuals honed in on identifying and accepting their weaknesses. Most millionaires noted that if they didn't possess a particular skill, they delegated the task to someone that did, freeing up time and energy.
3. They're not afraid to dream big
Millionaires are not confined to small-space things and actively work on setting and implementing their dream lives. While financial moves are calculated, and rarely based on instant gratification, they also allow space to think outside the box and pursue dreams that others might try to deter them from.
With a solid mindset and the right determination, most of these millionaires were able to achieve their dream goals. According to Corley's data, many of the participants in the study used the "Dream-Setting" strategy where they sit down and write out what they want their day-to-day life to look like in 10 years' time. The results didn't arrive overnight, but for many, it did materialize in the years to follow.
This strategy is used by coaches around the world to assist their clients with building wealth and ultimately reaching a million dollar net worth. While people tend to associate rich people with lavish lifestyles, the reality is that a lot of them can be found living in a modest neighborhood wearing inexpensive clothes and driving modest cars. It's the money habits that matter.
4. They listen more than they talk
Over the course of the study, several strategies kept appearing. One of them was the "5:1 listening rule". This involves listening for five minutes for every one minute that you talk. This strategy is known to provide a variety of perspectives and strengthen work relationships.
In fact, 81% of the participants said they make a daily habit of actively seeking feedback from others within and outside of the workplace.
5. Millionaires create their own opportunities
The Roman philosopher Seneca is often quoted as saying, "luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity." Surprisingly, 94% of the participants held a resolute stance against gambling. However, a majority of them possessed the acumen to perceive what others couldn't and took decisive action. Whether through unconventional paths to achievement or imaginative solutions, these millionaires were adept at constructing their own "luck."
Over time, relentless diligence creates substantial openings. By persistently pursuing your aspirations and maintaining unwavering commitment to your dreams, fortuitous moments will inevitably present themselves.
The habits of wealthy people
If your goal is to build wealth, whether to retire comfortably or impact future generations, it might worth consider these habits that self-made millionaires have adopted and consider incorporating some or all of them into your daily living. While wealthy people might not be the greatest role models, self-made millionaires certainly know a thing or two.
Mastering the game of money: 5 financial tips every millennial needs to know to navigate the modern economy and build wealth.
With growing pressure to "have it all figured out" consider that since the start of their careers, millennials have seen slower economic growth than any other generation in the United States' history. Living through two recessions wreaks havoc on not only one's career path but finance success too.
Below we've listed the 5 golden financial tips that every millennial should know when it comes to managing their personal finance. From things you can do now to planning for the future, these simple and actionable steps will assist in making your financial situation that much more of a financial success.
1. Be prepared for hard times: emergency fund edition
While none of us enjoy emergencies, they are an unfortunate and inescapable part of reality. The best way to deal with them is by being prepared, and this means putting in the work ahead of time. By having a plan in place, you can minimize the stress and damage that these situations cause.
While rule number 1 of financial health is getting yourself out of debt, rule number two is creating an emergency fund. This is considered to be six months' worth of living expenses saved in a savings account so should something go wrong - from unemployment to medical bills to car or household repairs - this doesn't take a negative toll on your personal finance.
While this is not something one can typically create overnight, consider your budget and how much you can allocate to your emergency fund each month. Then start putting the money aside, even if it takes you a year or two to get there.
Consider if something went wrong and you needed access to cash fast, would you instead use the money from your emergency fund, or take out high-interest debt in the form of a credit card or personal loan? Note that taking funds from your retirement savings was not an option, and nor should it ever be.
In your path to financial success, always have a plan to fall back on.
2. Living large is fun, but can your personal finance really afford it?
Before making big money decisions, you must ask yourself difficult questions.
Before you upgrade your car, consider whether you can really afford it. Aside from the car, there is also insurance and gas and services, can your budget afford to take these on?
Or when moving apartments, is the upgrade totally necessary, and can your budget handle it? As millennials, we love to live the high life, but just make sure that your budget isn't taking strain and that everything you buy is well within your means.
3. It's ok to say no sometimes (and avoid credit card debt)
Celebrating with friends and family is a big part of life, but you don't have to say yes to everything, especially if these celebrations are taking a toll on your personal finances.
When planned ahead of time, one can usually budget for these, but last-minute surprise events come with added pressure. Also, consider that all these functions and events add up, don't get caught off guard "living in the moment" only for your finances (and financial goals) to suffer later.
Create a budget that outlines exactly what your financial obligations are to establish what you can spend on entertainment and socializing each month. Then, and most importantly, stick to it. If a last-minute event falls outside of this budget, you're well within your means to politely decline.
Having fun with friends and family is special, but taking a financial knock will only hurt you in the long run. Prioritize your social calendar and don't live beyond your means.
4. Watch out for direct debits (except to your savings account)
Living in the digital age we find ourselves in now is designed to be stress-free and seamless. Companies are making payments effortless through automatic payments, aka direct debits, but are you entirely aware of all the payments going off your checking account each month? It's very easy to lose track of your expenses when they're all automated.
When building your budget make sure you go through old statements to make sure that no direct debits are going off your account for services that you no longer use. Ideally, do this quarterly to ensure that you're always on top of your expenses.
The most NB direct debits should be to your emergency fund, savings account, and any investments (including your retirement fund). These are not considered expenses but are deposits into your future.
5. Don't be fooled into thinking that retirement is light years away
Your retirement is closer than you think, don't get caught out. Many millennials have seen their parents and grandparents struggle with no retirement planning, break the cycle and make sure that you are prepared with a plan and a solid retirement account.
Don't wait until you're old, start preparing now and reap the rewards when you finally get there. A great way to prepare is to start putting money into long-term investments with compounded interest. These types of accounts ensure that your money works for you. Also, look to passive income options to help you build your retirement account.
Alleviate some of the grey hairs by getting your financial planning started today.
Closing thoughts on achieving financial success
While the economic cycles haven't been good to us, we are resilient and strong and will rise above it. Consider these 5 golden financial tips and build a financial strategy to ensure that you're covered for everything from an emergency to retirement. The first steps to taking the reigns of your personal finance are to write out a monthly budget, allocate funds as necessary, and then stick to your spending frameworks.
If in doubt, contact a financial advisor who can assist with furthering your financial education and provide more in-depth money tips.