The Top 5 Money Mistakes You Might Be Making (And How to Avoid Them)
You don’t need to be perfect with money — just aware and intentional.
We’ve All Been There
There was a time I didn’t look at my bank account unless I had to. I avoided it out of fear — fear that I’d overspent, that I wasn’t saving enough, that I was already too far behind to fix it.
Sound familiar? You’re not alone.
Most people weren’t taught how to manage money. We’re left figuring it out through trial and error — and sometimes that means falling into habits that quietly hold us back.
But here’s the good news: most money mistakes are fixable. And it starts with awareness.
Mistake #1: Not Knowing Where Your Money Goes
When you don’t track your spending, it’s easy for money to disappear without knowing where or why.
How to fix it:
Start with a simple budget. Use an app, a spreadsheet, or pen and paper — whatever works for you. The goal isn’t perfection, it’s clarity.
Mistake #2: Not Paying Yourself First
Waiting to save whatever’s left over at the end of the month? It rarely works.
How to fix it:
Treat your savings like a bill. Automate it. Even $50 a month adds up and builds the habit.
Mistake #3: Carrying High-Interest Debt
Credit card debt can quietly drain your future. The interest builds fast, and it can feel like quicksand.
How to fix it:
Make a plan. Pay more than the minimum, explore balance transfers, or speak with a financial advisor. There’s always a way forward.
Mistake #4: Avoiding Financial Conversations
Whether it’s with a partner, parent, or advisor — avoiding the conversation leads to confusion and missed opportunities.
How to fix it:
Be open. Talk about your goals and challenges. It’s not about judgment, it’s about growth.
Mistake #5: Thinking It’s Too Late to Start
This one’s personal. So many people think they’ve missed their window — that they’re too old, too far behind, or just not “good with money.”
How to fix it:
Shift the mindset. Every dollar saved, every new habit, every informed decision moves you forward. Start today, exactly where you are.
You’re Not Failing — You’re Learning
If you see yourself in any of these mistakes, don’t panic. Recognizing them is the first win.
Money isn’t about being perfect. It’s about being present. With every small step, you build awareness, resilience, and confidence.
Final Thought
No matter where you’re starting from, it’s not too late to take control.
You’re not behind. You’re just getting started — and that’s powerful.
You’re not behind. You’re just starting now — and that’s a powerful place to be. Small, consistent steps are how confidence is built.
Kerry Rizzo