Photo by Pepi Stojanovski

It’s easy to feel overwhelmed by numbers and paperwork. But in the middle of all the chaos of finances, it’s crucial to remember the bigger picture: our relationship with money and the values it represents. 

It’s the perfect time to take a breather from all the tax stress and dive into some helpful tips about financial matters. Check out our 15 money tips for little nuggets of wisdom to help you navigate the money maze and maybe even shed some light on what truly matters in life. 

? Pay yourself first

Treat your savings like a priority bill – set aside a portion of your income before anything else.

? Budget like a boss

Create a spending plan that aligns with your goals, and stick to it (mostly).

? Track your spending 

Keep tabs on where your money goes each month; those small expenses add up!

? Emergency fund FTW

Save up at least 3-6 months’ worth of expenses for those rainy days – or when the latest tech gadget calls your name.

? Avoid debt traps

Be cautious with credit cards and loans; they can bite you if you’re not careful.

? Live below your means

It’s not about how much you make, but how much you keep – splurging occasionally is fine, but don’t go overboard.

? Invest in your future

Start early and diversify your investments – your retired self will thank you later.

? Automate your savings

Set up automatic transfers to your savings account so you’re less tempted to spend it.

? Cut unnecessary expenses

Do you really need that seventh streaming service or twice-daily fancy coffee?

? Negotiate like a pro

Don’t be afraid to haggle for better deals on bills or services – it’s your money, after all!

? Plan for big expenses

Whether it’s a vacation or a new car, save up in advance instead of relying on credit. As Eleanor Roosevelt put it, “It takes as much energy to wish as it does to plan.”

? Keep learning

Financial literacy is key – read books, take courses, or follow money-savvy influencers to level up your knowledge. 

? Stay organized

Keep your financial documents in order; tax season is less stressful when everything’s in one place.

? Review your finances regularly

Check-in on your progress and adjust your strategies as needed – it’s like a financial health checkup.

? Celebrate milestones

Reward yourself for reaching financial goals – just keep it budget-friendly!

It all boils down to this: Money is neither good nor evil – it’s all in how our views, usage, and values on financial matters influence us. As philosophical author Ayn Rand once said, “Money is only a tool. It will take you wherever you wish, but it will not replace you as the driver.” Learning to build healthy financial habits is key to both personal and business success. 

And to further inspire you, we’ve put together 9 quotes about money to inspire and motivate you in your entrepreneurial journey.

“Every day is a bank account, and time is our currency. No one is rich, no one is poor, we’ve got 24 hours each.” – Christopher Rice

Time is the great equalizer; we all get the same 24 hours each day, so spend it wisely.

“You can only become truly accomplished at something you love. Don’t make money your goal. Instead, pursue the things you love doing, and then do them so well that people can’t take their eyes off you.” – Maya Angelou

So, pursue your passions relentlessly; success will follow.

“It’s not the employer who pays the wages. Employers only handle the money. It’s the customer who pays the wages.” – Henry Ford

Customers fuel the economy; employers just manage the funds.

“If you don’t value your time, neither will others. Stop giving away your time and talents. Value what you know & start charging for it.” – Kim Garst

Your time and talent are valuable commodities – don’t give them away for free.

“Empty pockets never held anyone back. Only empty heads and empty hearts can do that.”  – Norman Vincent Peale

Lack of money isn’t the real obstacle; it’s the absence of vision and passion. Go back to the reason you started all this. What is your why?

“Do the one thing you think you cannot do. Fail at it. Try again. Do better the second time. The only people who never tumble are those who never mount the high wire. This is your moment. Own it.” – Oprah Winfrey

Embrace failure and keep pushing forward; success comes from persistence. Turn those setbacks into stepping stones for success.

“It takes as much energy to wish as it does to plan.” – Eleanor Roosevelt

Wishful thinking won’t get you far; planning and action will.

“The successful warrior is the average man, with laser-like focus.” – Bruce Lee

Energy spent on planning is never wasted; it’s an investment in your future. Preparation and perseverance pave the road to success.

“In theory, taxes should be like shopping. What I buy is government services. What I pay are my taxes.” – P. J. O’Rourke

Think of taxes as a subscription fee for being a citizen – it definitely stings when the service isn’t up to par though.

Want to journey down the entrepreneur’s path with confidence alongside a community of like-minded female founders? Apply for the Selmade Founders Fund today!