Saving money can feel like following a strict set of rules, but let’s be honest—not all advice works for everyone. Sometimes, breaking the “rules” is the best way to get ahead financially. Here are 10 common money rules you can skip—or at least bend—if you want to save faster and smarter.
Always Save Before You Spend
You’ve probably heard the saying, “Pay yourself first.” It’s good advice in theory, but if you’re drowning in debt or barely covering your bills, saving first doesn’t make much sense.
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Instead, focus on priorities. Pay down high-interest debt (like credit cards) first since that’s costing you the most. Then, save what you can. Once the debt is gone, it’ll be easier to build up your savings.
Avoid Credit Cards Like the Plague
People love to hate on credit cards, but they’re not all bad. If you use them responsibly, they actually offer a lot of benefits. You can earn cashback, travel perks, or points, and they help build your credit score.
The trick is simple: never spend more than you can pay off in full each month. That way, you avoid interest while still getting all the rewards.
Buy New to Save Money
Buying new isn’t always the smartest choice. New stuff like clothes, furniture, and gadgets can lose value quickly. But buying secondhand can save you a ton without sacrificing quality.
Thrift stores, online resell sites, and even places like Facebook Marketplace are great for finding gently-used treasures. You’ll save money and can put that extra cash toward your bigger goals.
Always Stick to Your Budget
Budgets are great, but life isn’t perfect. Sticking too closely to your plan might make you miss out on good deals or fun experiences.
Instead, think of your budget as a guide, not a hard rulebook. Leave room for flexibility—like grabbing a discounted flight or stocking up during a great sale. It’s okay to spend smartly if it still fits your overall goals.
Put All Your Money in a Savings Account
Savings accounts may feel safe, but they don’t always help your money grow. Most of them have super low interest rates, and inflation can actually make your money worth less over time.
Instead of stashing everything in one spot, try spreading your savings around. High-yield savings accounts, money market funds, or beginner investments are safer ways to help your money grow faster.
Use Cash for Everything
Sure, cash makes it easier to limit spending, but it has its downsides, too. You miss out on credit card rewards, cashback deals, and extras like purchase protection. Plus, using cash makes tracking your spending harder.
Apps or digital wallets not only make budgeting easier but also help you spot spending patterns. Plus, many of them throw in perks like discounts or cashback credits.
Financial Literacy Doesn’t Matter
Thinking money stuff is too complicated to bother learning about is a big mistake. The more you know, the easier it is to make smart choices about saving, spending, or investing.
There are tons of free resources—YouTube channels, blogs, podcasts, and even online courses. Start small by learning about one topic at a time, like how to budget or what to avoid when it comes to credit cards.
Don’t Discuss Money with Friends
Talking about money can feel weird or awkward, but it doesn’t have to be. By sharing tips or asking friends how they budget, you could pick up some helpful ideas you wouldn’t have thought of on your own.
Start simple—share a small financial win, like finding an app that tracks your spending. You may be surprised by how much you can learn just by opening up a bit.
Stay Loyal to Your Bank
If you’ve been using the same bank forever just because it’s “easy,” you could be missing out. Many banks charge high fees or offer terrible interest rates.
Take some time to compare options. Online banks and credit unions often have better rates, fewer fees, or even sign-up bonuses. Switching could save you hundreds—or more—over time.
Always Keep Emergency Funds Separate
The old rule says emergency funds should always be in their own account, but that’s not always realistic. What matters most is being able to access your money when you need it.
Generally, choose options that are liquid—meaning you can pull money out quickly, like savings accounts or low-risk investments. The setup doesn’t matter as much as having cash ready when life throws you a curveball.
Rethink the Rules and Start Saving Smarter
Breaking the rules might feel risky, but sometimes it’s the smartest move. What matters most is finding a system that works for you and your goals. So, which of these rules are you ready to break to save faster? Start small, stay flexible, and you’ll see the results in no time.
10 Financial Habits of People Who Are Actually Good with Money
Isn’t it interesting how some people always seem to have their finances in order while others struggle to manage their money effectively? It often comes down to a set of consistent habits that they practice, leading to greater financial stability and freedom. These financial habits aren’t about luck or secret tricks but rather simple, practical approaches anyone can adopt. Implementing some of these 10 habits just may be the key to changing how you handle your money. 10 Financial Habits of People Who Are Actually Good with Money
13 Surprisingly Simple Ways To Save Big, Even When You’re Broke
The internet may not be the first place you go when you’re looking for inspiration to save money, but believe it or not, there is a ton of free content online to offer you creative ways to save money that may not have crossed your mind before. 13 Surprisingly Simple Ways To Save Big, Even When You’re Broke