Kate Norris, a certified financial planner at Sun Life, understands the challenges that young people face when it comes to saving money in today’s economy. With living costs on the rise, many individuals, especially Gen Zers, can feel overwhelmed and hopeless about their financial future. Norris acknowledges the concept of “money dysmorphia,” where individuals may feel worse off than they truly are, despite being financially stable.
In a recent interview with Business Insider, Norris highlighted the importance of financial literacy across all generations. She emphasized the need for young people to take control of their finances and offered practical advice to help them achieve financial security.
One of Norris’s key pieces of advice is to set up automatic payments to a savings account at the beginning of each month. By doing so, individuals are less tempted to spend their surplus income, ensuring that they have savings set aside for emergencies.
Budgeting is another essential aspect of financial planning, according to Norris. She suggests that individuals track their expenses and categorize them to gain a better understanding of where their money is going. Many banks offer budgeting tools that can help individuals feel more in control of their finances.
Norris also urges individuals to be mindful of consumer debt and to understand the long-term implications of borrowing money. By being aware of the interest rates and total debt amount, individuals can make more informed decisions about their finances.
Saving money can be challenging, especially when faced with the temptation of instant gratification. Norris advises individuals to focus on delayed rewards and take small steps towards being more frugal. By seeing their net worth grow, even by as little as $100 per month, individuals can start building towards a more secure financial future.
Ultimately, Norris encourages young people to remain optimistic and proactive about their financial well-being. While the current economic climate may seem daunting, she reminds individuals that financial challenges are cyclical and that with perseverance and smart financial habits, they can overcome any obstacles.
To read the full article on financial advice and saving habits by Kate Norris, visit Business Insider.