7 Things Everyone Should Be Saving For

Saving money is a fundamental life skill that can help us become financially independent. While it is good to save money, it is more important to be clear on what you’re saving for and the timeline to achieve it. This keeps you focused and on track. In this article, we explore some things everyone should be saving for.

What you should be saving for 

1. Emergency

Emergencies should be the top priority of what everyone should be saving for because we can’t always avoid them. If you are unprepared, an unforeseen event can disrupt your regular cash flow. However, having emergency savings can help lessen the financial burden.

How long can you last if an emergency happens right now? Find out with this financial independence quiz. 

2.  Financial freedom

It’s an amazing feeling when you don’t have to worry about money or when your next paycheck is coming. Even when you aren’t saving for a new car or gadget, just knowing that you have some money saved somewhere gives a sense of financial security. 

3. To get out of debt

“Debt can turn a free, happy person into a bitter human being.” – Michael Mihalik.

One of the great benefits of saving is that it helps you to get out of debt. It also saves you in situations where you would have borrowed from others.

4. Retirement

Retirement should be on the list of what everyone should be saving for. By saving for retirement, you are ensuring you’ll have enough money to maintain a decent living when you stop working full-time. Having retirement savings also means you won’t depend solely on your pension or children. 

5. A house

Being a homeowner is a huge achievement, especially for a low-income earner. However, this can be achieved through the financial discipline of saving. 

6. Investments

Another noteworthy thing to save money for is investments. The power of compounding helps your saved money grow faster when you invest it in mutual funds, for example. Investing is also the path to leaving generational wealth for your children.

7. Vacations

The only thing you can save money for that increases your wealth in terms of fun memories and sweet experiences, is exploring the magnificent world through travel. Everyone should, once in a while, step outside of their comfort zone and see from different perspectives all around the world. 

Five ways to save money

• Work with a budget: There are several budgeting methods you can follow judiciously such as the 50/30/20 rule.
• Buy in bulk: Buying in bulk means you are cutting down on groceries budget, and you won’t have to buy for some time.
• Automated savings: Saving your money with automatic monthly savings helps you be more disciplined. Once the money is saved, you can budget the rest for other expenses. Here is where to begin to automate your savings. 
• Cut down expenses: Contrary to what you may think, just because you can afford something doesn’t mean you should buy it. Trying to save for a better life means you need to be frugal with your spending and only buy what is essential. 
• Be financially educated: Saving money doesn’t just stop there. You want your money to work for you, but that can’t happen if you are not financially literate. Seeking advice from money experts, and reading financial books and resources will help you make smarter money decisions that will benefit you for a long time.

Bottom line

As much as saving is basically setting money aside for future emergencies or purchases, there are several other things for which one can save money. It also takes discipline. However, the benefits of the lifestyle it affords you are worth it. There is nothing as freeing as being financially independent or debt-free. Start saving now.