Financial Literacy by First Alliance Credit Union

Financial Planning: The Earlier the Better

Written by Jenna Taubel | Mar 12, 2019 12:48:00 PM

It is never too soon to start saving for events that occur later on in life such as retirement. In fact, if you wait too long, it is simply not possible to reach savings targets in a short period of time. Here are some reasons why it is better to start putting aside money as soon as you are able.

You'll Save Less Overall

Depending on how you put the money that you save to use, it compounds over time. In other words, either due to investment returns or interest rates on savings, your money grows. Even a couple of years make a big difference when it comes to the amount that savings compound. Many years down the line, this will greatly help your account balances. If you want to spend more money in the future, it is better to start saving now because starting earlier reduces the amount that must be put aside years from now.

You Can Plan More and Reduce Mistakes

Comprehensive planning can be highly beneficial when you know your family goals and ambitions. When you have less time to save, you must be very precise in your choices because one mistake can spoil an entire savings plan. When you start saving early, you'll have more time to learn and will be able to find the strategy that works for you. While nobody likes to lose money that they have saved, you will give yourself a higher margin for error. Also, more time means more ability to make financial plans since there is less urgency.

Your Financial Habits Will Be Better

Savings equals prudence, and the sooner that you learn that lesson, the better your financial decisions will be over the course of a lifetime. Putting aside money is a good habit to have, and it is hard to learn financial discipline after a lifetime of profligacy. Even if you are just saving a little bit of money, the concept of working toward a financial plan can help you reduce wastefulness. Even if you cut unnecessary spending by just a small amount, it will benefit you over the course of a lifetime.

These actions can mean the difference between financial freedom and a lifetime of debt. Planning and foresight will help set you up for a lifetime of financial well-being. The sooner that you begin to integrate that habit by saving, the stronger your financial position will become.

How Financially Fit are You?