Welcome to the second quarter of 2025! We started the money conversation last month and I believe you found it helpful. This article takes us further.
Maybe you have been hurt by poor financial decisions. Maybe you think you can’t become better at managing money. The good news is, you can always commence a new journey to financial freedom when you are convinced you are ready. What matters is that you are armed with the right (kind of) information AND you decide to act on it.
Before I share the next set of tips, I want you to know that having something saved before you graduate from either secondary school or the university is a launchpad. You will look back at the sacrifices it took and be grateful.
Bearing in mind the tips shared in the last article, let’s get in:
- Keep in mind that character is the most important currency you need in life, followed by competence. Whatever you do, keep evaluating and improving both.
- There is a level of unhealthy pressure that is associated with making money. You need to be mindful that attaining financial independence is a marathon, not a sprint. So, resist the temptation to compare your money situation with that of anyone else.
- The moment you take financial literacy seriously, you should become interested in financial analysis; whether it is on TV or via the internet. It may be boring and complex at first, but you will get the hang of it if you keep going.
- There are numerous terms involved in the world of finance. Thus, you should stay curious and utilise your resources—internet access, time, attention—to look up any that seems confusing. Your next breakthrough may be a term away.
- Plan towards getting a (personal) finance coach, as you get older, so you can reduce guesswork and make informed decisions..
- Seek ways to earn (more) income legitimately. These could be through: holiday jobs, freelancing with your skills, and so on.
- Do not be shy of telling people about the value you offer, in goods and services.
- Set boundaries with money, as regards giving and receiving it. Tame your appetite, as greed is the main reason people fall for scams.
- If you are a student leader, understand that money matters test your integrity. It is advisable that the overall head of a team is not its financial officer or treasurer. Never see group funds as personal funds. Resist covetousness.
- It is okay to come across surprising facts or news about money or the economy. What matters is what conclusions you draw from it.
Closing thoughts
Thinking about the bills that come with adulthood can be scary. However, getting armed with information, following principles that work and learning from mistakes will help you tremendously. Money is definitely important to live a good life; one with options. Don’t forget to keep your character intact and keep growing your skills because money flows in the direction of, and in exchange for, value.
I will see you in the next article.
`__________________ Gbemisola Oluwasina is also known as the Elegant Inker. She is a content solution provider—everything from strategy, writing, editing, to audit! She has helped 10+ brands, authors and writers to accelerate their visibility, influence and profit. Also, her poems and articles have been published. Gbemisola is blessed with a voice that enriches what she says. She has honoured 20+ virtual speaking invitations since 2020. These engagements covered topics like: writing, content marketing, social media positioning, public speaking, (self) leadership, the Christian faith and albinism. She looks forward to more of these, as well as to features in the media and TED(x). Gbemisola is a recent graduate of International Relations at Covenant University who has occupied different leadership offices. She has received numerous certificates and awards. She is an ardent believer that individuals are responsible for the achievement of organisational and national goals. She loves Abba. She likes to learn other languages and make beaded articles. Email: gbemisolaoluwasina@gmail.com YouTube, Facebook and LinkedIn: Gbemisola Oluwasina Telegram channel, Instagram and Facebook pages: Elegant Inker.
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