I’ve made my fair share of money mistakes.I spent half my paycheck on shiny, trendy, and unnecessary things. The first time I had some money, I boasted with my friends and spent everything on fancy dinners and alcohol. I even bought stuff I couldn’t afford and had to ask my parents for money.But I learned from my mistakes. And I knew that building health isn’t about luck or stumbling upon a jackpot. It’s about discipline, strategy, and following a few timeless money rules.f

Making Money Mistakes

These rules are the guardrails on the winding road to financial independence.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Break them, and you might find yourself careening off a climb into debt.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Follow them, and you’ll be cruising into a life of comfort and security.</li></ul>Let’s explore these seven unbreakable rules, each inspired by the wisdom of financial icons, literary treasures, and hard-earned lessons.

7 Money Rules You Should Never Break

Imagine you’re at a dinner party, and someone hands you their credit card to pay the bill.“Buy whatever you think is best,” they tell you. Sounds crazy, right? Yet, many people treat their money this way, trusting financial advisors, brokers, or even well-meaning friends.

1. Take Care About Your Money (1)

Warren Buffett famously said:Never depend on a single income. Make investments to create a second source.But nobody wants you to follow his advice without understanding it.Take care of your money. Educate yourself to manage them at your best. Read books like The Intelligent Investor by Benjamin Graham or Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki . These classics will give you the foundation to make smart, informed choices with your hard-earned cash.

1. Take Care About Your Money (2)

What’s the first thing you pay when you get your paycheck?Your landlord? The credit card company? Or maybe you reward yourself for the job you have done in your favorite coffee shop?The answer is you.

2. Always Pay Yourself First (1)

George S. Clason popularizes paying yourself first in The Richest Man in Babylon . But what does this mean?It’s simple. Save a portion of your income before paying any bills. Treat it like a non-negotiable expense.Why? Because if you don’t, you’ll always find other expenses to eat up your money. And, by the end of the month, you will have saved nothing.Your future self — living in a paid-off home with a cushy retirement fund — will thank you for this simple habit.

2. Always Pay Yourself First (2)

Day-trading stocks and cryptocurrency are hot topics. The idea of investing in those things makes hearts race. But exciting investments often lead to exciting losses, too. John C. Bogle, the founder of Vanguard, advocated for boring but effective index funds. His mantra?“Don’t look for the needle in the haystack. Just buy the haystack!”

3. Use Boring Investment Strategies (1)

Books like The Little Book of Common Sense Investing emphasize the importance of slow and steady growth. Successful investing isn’t about being flashy. It is about being consistent and patient. I invested my first $5k before the pandemic. It was a long-term project. So, I kept investing even after the market crash due to the pandemic. And today, four years later, my wallet is above 17%.

3. Use Boring Investment Strategies (2)

Some people spend years building a solid portfolio. And then, at the first setback, they’re tempted to dip into those funds and sell everything.Don’t do it. When you borrow from your investment accounts, you steal from your future self.

4. Never Borrow From Your Saving Funds (1)

Suze Orman, the author of The 9 Steps to Financial Freedom , warns against this practice. She explains how tapping into your investments can disrupt the compound effect. And it will rob you of your potential growth.Build a financial cushion instead (more on that next). Keep your investments untouchable. And only use them when you think you grew them enough.

4. Never Borrow From Your Saving Funds (2)

Life has a funny way of throwing curveballs — a sudden medical bill, a leaky roof, or an unexpected job loss. Without an emergency fund, you’re just one crisis away from financial disaster.In The Total Money Makeover, Dave Ramsey stresses the importance of saving three to six months of living expenses in an emergency fund. He likens it to an insurance policy against Murphy’s Law: If something can go wrong, it will.

5. Always Have an Emergency Fund (1)

So, make sure to be prepared. Don’t let life’s surprises derail your financial plans. Start small if you must, but start today.The emergency fund was the first thing I removed from my to-do list once I got a job. It’s only three months long, for now. I’ve been using my money to create an investment portfolio. But I would like to push it up to six months of income, which is always safer.

5. Always Have an Emergency Fund (2)

Overspending is the main enemy of a healthy financial plan. Credit cards, after all, make it deceptively easy to live beyond your means. They are comfortable. But they make you forget about the money you can spend.So, how do you spend less (or not too much, at least)?

6. Never Spend More Than You Make (1)

In All Your Worth: The Ultimate Lifetime Money Plan , Elizabeth Warren introduces <a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/p/stop-wasting-money">the 50/30/20 budgeting rule </a>. This approach ensures you spend only 50% of your income on needs, 30% on wants, and save 20%. And it can save you from paying too much for things you can’t afford.It’s a simple rule. But it works even for people who don’t have much time to budget and track their expenses daily.

6. Never Spend More Than You Make (2)

Personal finance is a growing process. And the strategies that worked 50 years ago might not work today. So keep learning.Besides the books I already mentioned, there’s one last book I would like to suggest — Money: Master the Game by Tony Robbins. It helped me set up my plan for financial freedom. And I’m sure it will help you manage your finances better.Whether attending webinars, listening to podcasts, or reading articles like this one (good start!), commit to lifelong learning. The more you know, the better equipped you’ll be to make wise financial choices.

7. Always Keep Learning About Money

Building wealth isn’t about quick wins or cutting corners. It’s about patience, discipline, and following the rules. These seven principles are your toolkit, but it’s up to you to use them.This week, take 15 minutes each day to evaluate your financial habits. Use the infographic to rate your commitment to each rule and identify possible improvements.By the end of the week, you’ll have a clearer picture of your financial strengths and areas for growth. Small, consistent changes now can lead to massive results later. Are you ready to take charge?[DOWNLOAD THE FREE INFOGRAPHIC <a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/p/7-money-rules-you-should-never-break">HERE</a>]

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Spread the word! Share <a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/">The Challenge</a> with friends and family.</li><li class="ql-align-justify"><a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/subscribe">Subscribe today</a> to support the ongoing creation of this content.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Want more? Explore my other work at <a href="https://www.cosmopolitanmindset.com/">Cosmopolitan Mindset</a>.</li></ul>

Next Steps

You're reading an excerpt from<a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/"> The Challenge</a> — a weekly newsletter dedicated to self-improvement, goal-setting, habits, time management, and health tips.Every week, you'll receive:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">A life-enhancing challenge</li><li class="ql-align-justify">A custom infographic to track your progress</li></ul><a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/subscribe">Subscribe now </a>and start your first challenge.

The Challenge

7 Money Rules You Should Never Break to Build Wealth: Proven Tips from Warren Buffett, Dave Ramsey, and Other Financial Legends

Discover the world of business and economics.

economics

Economics

personaldevelopment

Personal Development

moneyandinvestments

Money & Investments

motivationandinspiration

Motivation & Inspiration

7 Money Rules You Should Never Break to Build Wealth

Digital distractions aren't just a minor inconvenience anymore. They shape our lives so much that we often don't even notice.The average attention span dropped from 12 seconds in 2000 to 8 seconds today. And it seems like we are not improving.

The Attention Span Dropped

It's a new day.You wake up. You take your phone. And you spend the next 20 minutes scrolling through endless notifications, emails, and news feeds. Your mind is already buzzing with distractions when you sit down to work. And it has been only one hour since you woke up.But you are not alone. 84% of people check their phones within 15 minutes of waking up. It has become a habit. And it profoundly impacts our ability to focus throughout the day.

Waking Up On Your Phone

But what if I told you focus is a skill you can rebuild? What if you could minimize the distractions you face every day with a few intentional practices?This week, I want to share four transformative methods that helped me regain focus, reduce distractions, and take control of my days. These techniques come from research. But they work in real life, too.

You Can Rebuild Focus

You're reading an excerpt from <a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/">The Challenge</a> — a weekly newsletter dedicated to self-improvement, goal-setting, habits, time management, and health tips.Every week, you'll receive:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">A life-enhancing challenge</li><li class="ql-align-justify">A custom infographic to track your progress</li></ul><a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/subscribe">Subscribe now</a> and start your first challenge.

Mornings are the most critical times for setting the tone of your days. But they are also the moment digital distractions tempt you the most.Starting the day without screens is like giving your mind a fresh canvas, unpolluted by the noise of the digital world. However, research shows that checking your phone first thing in the morning triggers the release of dopamine, a neurotransmitter responsible for seeking new information. The dopamine loop hooks you on constant checking, derailing the focus needed for real productivity.

1 — Limit Digital Consumption in The Morning (1)

I used to wake up, turn on my phone, check emails, glance at social media, and scroll through the news. Before I knew it, I’d lost 30 minutes, and my head was spinning. However, studies reveal that 77% of people feel more productive and less anxious when they avoid digital devices first thing in the morning. I decided to experiment with analogical mornings.I leave my phone off. I pick up my to-do list and dive into my tasks. No screen, no notifications — just me, my thoughts, and my first daily goal.It is challenging. At first, I couldn't think about anything but my phone, but it paid off.

1 — Limit Digital Consumption in The Morning (2)

The average person receives between 60 and 80 daily notifications. You live most of your day in a constant stream of interruptions. And every time you check one, your attention span shrinks even more.Psychologists designed push notifications to pull us in, creating a sense of urgency when there is none. This constant barrage shortens your attention span, with researchers finding that your productivity can drop by up to 40% even if you don't open the notification.

2 — Limit Push Notifications (1)

For me, notifications became an excuse to procrastinate.I'd tell myself that I would only check one message. But then, I'd scroll for ten more minutes. And then, ten more, until I lost all the afternoon.I took drastic measures once I realized notifications were manipulating my attention. And now, I turn off all non-essential notifications during my work hours, which allows me to stay focused and accomplish tasks in half the time.

2 — Limit Push Notifications (2)

We live in a world of 15-second reels and quick headlines. Reading a book feels like an act of rebellion. But it's one of the most powerful ways to train your mind to stay focused.Unlike smartphones, books don't light up with new information every five minutes. They require sustained concentration. And they don't reward you with instant gratification.Studies show that reading a book can increase attention span by 30% and decrease stress levels by up to 68%.

3 — Read Books (1)

When you read a book, you commit time and attention to understanding a single storyline or concept. For me, reading has become a refuge from the digital noise. It’s an exercise in patience, a way to retrain my brain to enjoy longer, slower forms of concentration.Podcasts can also be helpful if you actively listen, but the multitasking temptation often makes them less effective. Reading, however, forces you to focus on one thing at a time, creating a habit of single-tasking that can carry over into other areas of your life.

3 — Read Books (2)

Boredom has a bad reputation. We try to avoid it at all costs—filling every spare moment with phone scrolling, messages, or mindless TV. However, <a href="https://open.substack.com/pub/cosmopolitanmindset/p/do-you-lack-creativity-try-these?r=50vfw&utm_campaign=post&utm_medium=web">boredom is essential for creativity </a>and focus.When we don't constantly stimulate our brains, they wander, make connections, and recharge. Neuroscientists have found that boredom activates the default mode network in the brain, which is responsible for creativity and problem-solving.

4 — Get Bored (1)

I started making time for boredom in my day a few years ago. Sometimes, I’d go for a short walk without my phone or sit quietly for 10 minutes. And this brief pause helped me recharge mentally and sparked creative ideas and fresh perspectives on my work.If you’re skeptical, try setting a timer for 5-10 minutes and sit with your thoughts. No distractions, no devices — just you. You might find it uncomfortable at first, but stick with it. Over time, you’ll notice that these moments of stillness bring a sense of calm, clarity, and new ideas that could transform your day.

4 — Get Bored (2)

Rebuilding focus isn’t about willpower. It’s about redesigning our routines and environment to support attention.By limiting digital consumption, turning off notifications, reading, and letting ourselves be bored, we can rewire our minds for greater focus. These small shifts create ripple effects, transforming productivity and a sense of peace and fulfillment.I’ve created a Focus Tracker printable to help you take action. Use it to set daily goals, track your focus habits, and celebrate each day you successfully reclaim control over your attention. [DOWNLOAD IT <a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/p/never-lose-focus-again">HERE</a>]

Boost your focus and beat distractions with 4 powerful techniques: limit digital intake, control notifications, embrace reading, and harness boredom for creativity!

productivity

Productivity

remotework

Remote Work

mindfulness

Mindfulness

timemanagement

Time Management

meditation

Meditation

Never Lose Focus Again: 4 Extraordinary Methods You Need to Know

Are the hobbies you’re spending time on helping you live a better life? Because if not, maybe it’s time for a change.I know, I know — it sounds harsh. But too often, we build hobbies that pass the time without adding value to our lives. We invest hours on things that may be fun but don’t give us much back. Time we could invest in something else. Something that can transform your life.

Are Your Hobbies Helping You?

I know you might be skeptical. But trust me — you can change your life with five carefully chosen hobbies. I call them The Five Essential Hobbies. And they will give you more than a little bit of leisure time. They will make you grow and empower you. And they will also elevate the people around you.It wasn’t until I focused on these five hobbies that I saw a lasting change. And I hope you decide to focus on them too.In this article, I will share these five life-changing hobbies. But don’t worry! They are simple, powerful, and adaptable to any lifestyle.

The Five Essential Hobbies

We spend most of our lives thinking about money. As soon as we put our hands on the first bucks, it becomes an addiction. And very few people can have a healthy relationship with them.Money stress is a big deal. So, having a hobby that generates income can give you a sense of financial security. It doesn’t matter if it’s small at first. With time, it can open new opportunities. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sharpen your skills and build confidence.

1 — A Hobby That Makes You Money (1)

I’ve been on this path for a few years. I started a few side hustles that were a loss of time. A few of them made me a few bucks. And some gave me the freedom to explore my passions without the constant worry of finances.It also taught me to think creatively about value — how to take something I’m good at and turn it into something others need.

1 — A Hobby That Makes You Money (2)

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Freelancing in skills like writing, graphic design, or consulting</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Investing in stocks</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Selling handmade crafts, vintage items, or collectibles online</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Creating digital products like courses, templates, or e-books</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Blogging or vlogging with the potential to monetize later</li></ul>

Related Hobbies

Start small. Pick a skill you already have, and think of one way it could benefit others. Offer that service once a week.

Physical health is the foundation for everything else. But I’ll admit — I always struggled to take care of it.When you’re in good shape, you think better. You feel better and handle stress more effectively. But this doesn’t mean you must go to the gym seven days a week. On the contrary, finding the right fitness hobby is about doing and sticking with it.

2 — A Hobby That Keeps You in Shape (1)

For me, this hobby has been running. I discovered that exercise doesn’t have to be high-pressure or competitive. I could do it for fun and use it to have more time to listen to podcasts.I built a routine I loved, something I could keep up consistently. And it soon became something I looked forward to do.

2 — A Hobby That Keeps You in Shape (2)

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Hiking or trail running (great for connecting with nature)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Dancing (in-person classes, online tutorials, or even solo at home)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Martial arts (like jiu-jitsu, boxing, or kickboxing for fitness and discipline)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Rock climbing or bouldering (fun challenge, great for upper body strength)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Yoga or Pilates (awesome for flexibility and mental clarity)</li></ul>

Choose one activity you’d like to try and commit to it. Don’t aim for perfection. Focus on consistency.

Creativity is a muscle — the more you use it, the stronger it gets.A creative hoppy gives you an outlet for self-expression. It helps you think in new ways. And it can even become therapeutic. It’s a way to break free from routine and experience freedom.

3 — A Hobby That Stimulates Your Creativity (1)

I felt trapped before taking my creative hobbies seriously. Now, carving out time for something creative refreshes my mind and helps me see things differently.It doesn’t matter if it’s a new project at work or a challenge in my personal life. I feel more prepared and relaxed.

3 — A Hobby That Stimulates Your Creativity (2)

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Painting, drawing, or crafting (perfect for expressing yourself visually)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Photography (learn new techniques, document your journey)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Playing a musical instrument (learn online or join a local class)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Creative writing (stories, poetry, or even journaling your thoughts)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Cooking or baking (an art form in itself!)</li></ul>

Dedicate one hour this week to a creative pursuit you’ve been curious about. Let yourself get lost in it — don’t worry about the outcome.

Knowledge doesn’t only help you professionally — it broadens your perspective and can be incredibly rewarding.A hobby that builds knowledge increases your resilience. It boosts your adaptability. And it makes you more interesting. It doesn’t matter whether you’re learning about history, science, technology, or anything else. When you expand your mind, you change how you interact with the world around you.

4 — A Hobby That Builds Knowledge (1)

I built most of my knowledge through reading. And I spend countless hours on books.I never stopped reading since I bought my Kobo fifteen years ago. It helped me learn many things about confidence, relationships, personal growth, and life stories. I started with fantasy books when I was younger. Then, I used books to improve my knowledge and study the things school never taught me. And those books helped me write articles like this.

4 — A Hobby That Builds Knowledge (2)

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Reading books or listening to audiobooks (any genre or topic you enjoy)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Learning a new language (try Duolingo or local language groups)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Enrolling in online courses (on platforms like Coursera or Udemy)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Joining a book club (for new perspectives and engaging discussions)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Exploring documentaries or educational podcasts</li></ul>

Pick one topic you’re interested in and dive deep. Spend an hour or two each week exploring it in a book, podcast, or online course.

Mindset is everything. And a hobby that can help you work on personal growth is a must.It has to make you more resilient, empathetic, and fulfilled. It can be meditation, journaling, or something unique. What you choose doesn’t matter as soon as it helps you cultivate inner peace and self-awareness.

5 — A Hobby That Grows Your Mindset (1)

When I started with mindfulness, I noticed an immediate difference in handling stress and setbacks. I gained the ability to stop my mind from wandering. I could do it only for a few seconds, but it made a difference.When you pick a mindset hobby, don’t focus on the challenge. Focus on building new perspectives on life. It may not help you right now. But it will make a difference later.

5 — A Hobby That Grows Your Mindset (2)

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Meditation (try guided sessions on apps like Headspace or Calm)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Journaling (reflect on your day, set intentions, or let your thoughts flow)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Volunteering (connect with others, give back, and learn from diverse experiences)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Practicing gratitude (write down three things you’re grateful for each day)</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Mindfulness exercises like mindful walking or conscious breathing</li></ul>

Take five minutes each morning or evening to practice mindfulness, gratitude, or reflection. This small habit can have an impact over time.

Now, it’s time to put this into action!For this week, I’m including a printable tracker for you to try one new hobby from each of the five categories above. Track your progress each day and see how you feel by the end of the week.If you complete each challenge this week, you’ll have started building your five essential hobbies! Print it, stick it somewhere you’ll see daily, and let’s take this journey together.Here’s to finding hobbies that fuel, fulfill, and make you feel alive.[<a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/p/find-your-5-essential-hobbies">DOWNLOAD</a> THE FREE TRACKING INFOGRAPHIC]

Transform your life with just 5 essential hobbies! Discover hobbies that boost your wealth, health, creativity, knowledge, and mindset—all in one guide.

writing

Reading & Writing

education

Learning & Education

creativity

Creativity

Find Your 5 Essential Hobbies And Transform Your Life Right Now

The mood we wake up with defines most of our day.Some days, you may wake up full of motivation. You feel inspired and ready to go, and you start working on your projects. You follow your routines, maintain your habits, and work with discipline and diligence.Unfortunately, it won’t happen every day.

Waking Up Without Motivation

Most days, you will wake up exhausted. You may have worked late, slept poorly, or just procrastinated your sleep until your eyes couldn’t hold it anymore. Or maybe you slept well, but you feel anxious and stressed. You feel like the world’s collapsing over you. And all you wish to do is take a deep breath of fresh air.These are only a few reasons you may wake up in a bad mood. And, unfortunately, it will define how you behave all day if you don’t act on it.Sometimes, an inspiring thought is all you need to swing your mood back on the positive side.

Waking up Exhausted

You're reading an excerpt from <a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/">The Challenge</a> — a weekly newsletter dedicated to self-improvement, goal-setting, habits, time management, and health tips.Every week, you'll receive:<ul><li>A life-enhancing challenge</li><li>A custom infographic to track your progress</li></ul><a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/subscribe">Subscribe now</a> and start your first challenge.

Win in silence. Let them think you are losing.I am a competitive person.I hate to lose. Even if I know somebody else deserves to win more than me. And I have it when people around me get the appreciation I would have loved to have. But I had to learn it doesn’t always depend on me.You start to lose when you think someone else has already won. That’s when you lose focus, your brain relaxes, and you give up.

The Power of Silence (1)

But there are two reasons why you should keep going.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">First, all your competitors will get ahead if you stop now. </li><li class="ql-align-justify">Second, winners will eventually bring down their guard. </li></ul>So, you won’t give up now. You will keep going. You will work in silence and win in silence. And when everyone will think you gave up, you will break through.

The Power of Silence (2)

Two months from now, you’ll be another person.Nobody can predict the future. Nobody that doesn’t trust his skills and worth.I doubted my skills many times in the past. I thought I wasn’t worth it and I was losing my time. But every time I look back, I see I’m in a way better place now. And I’ve always grown better.We love to build negative thoughts on feeble feelings. And we trust them more than facts. But if you learn to address those feelings for what they are — temporary fears — you will become stronger.

The Future Teller (1)

I learned this strong exercise a few months ago. I don’t even remember which app or blog post suggested it.Whenever you feel like you’re not worth it, look back at two months ago. Most times, you were in a worse situation but improved it. So you can envision yourself in more favorable circumstances. And if you see it, it will be easier to reach it.

The Future Teller (2)

You become what you believe.I have always been amazed by the law of attraction.When I was younger, I thought it was a spell that made me achieve everything. So, I used it to wish for unreachable things every night, hoping I would receive them the next day.Later, I understood what it was all about. You will achieve any goal if you trust yourself and remain focused.

The Mind Metamorphosis (1)

Your mind, body, and actions align on the same pattern. You will embrace positive beliefs, and they will shape your reality. And you will achieve everything you wish for.However, there’s one thing about the attraction law most people forget about — you have to wait. Overnight success is only a myth. It doesn’t exist.You won’t achieve your goals in a few days. It’s a long-term project.

The Mind Metamorphosis (2)

Satisfy your soul, not the society.I started writing online because writing gave me more than anything else. And it went fine until I decided to build a job out of it.I loved writing songs, poems, and even my diary. But then, the public opinion became part of the equation. And I wasn’t enjoying it anymore.I left writing a few times. You already know about this. But it didn’t represent me anymore.

The Satisfaction Push (1)

I was working to meet my followers’ interests. I wanted their approval and their love. But I was looking in the wrong direction.Nobody can replace the satisfaction and validation you get from within. So, work for yourself. Work for your soul. And you will find lasting results.

The Satisfaction Push (2)

One day, those 5a.m.s will make you a legend.New generations have forgotten the meaning of sacrifice, mine included.My parents sacrificed the love of their families to come to a foreign country and find a better life. And they succeeded. But who would do that today?We became complacent. We love to live with all the comfort and benefits of being born in a rich country. But this absence of conflict is making us too afraid of sacrifices.

The Necessary Sacrifice (1)

My father always taught me that if you want something great, you must give something back in exchange. You have to sacrifice something.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">Do you want money? Sacrifice more time.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Do you want more success? Sacrifice your friendships.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Do you want more free time? Sacrifice part of your income.</li></ul>Everything in life is an exchange. And if you want to succeed, you must be disciplined and sacrifice what’s holding you back.

The Necessary Sacrifice (2)

Dear Mom and Dad, one day, I’ll make you proud.My mom and dad did a lot for me. They didn’t only give me life. They took care and grew me into the man I am today. They supported my growth, ideas, and life challenges. They cheered and struggled with me. And I never felt alone knowing I had them. For this reason, I always find it inspiring to think about sending them a letter. What would I say to them?

The Proudness Within (1)

What am I doing today that would make them proud?This simple exercise can swing your mood and get you back to work even in the darkest days. Don’t underestimate the power of parental inspiration.

The Proudness Within (2)

They watch. They hate. And then, they copy.I always struggled to deal with two things: silence and criticism .When people around you are silent, something is not working as it should. They are observing you. And each failure could become your public guillotine.On the other hand, criticism is hard to accept. And even when people do it with the best intentions, their words still hurt feelings. And you never know how to react: when to take it in or leash it out.

The Copycat Theory (1)

Yet, I learned silence and criticism are the beginning of every achievement. Marketing experts teach people how to polarize their audience in their lessons. Love gurus suggest polarization as the first step towards a romantic relationship.Soon, you’ll understand all reactions from the audience are positive. Letting them know about your existence is your main goal. And you can always change their mind later.They might observe you first. They might even criticize you. But if you keep going, they will try to copy your success.

The Copycat Theory (2)

I will win. Not immediately, but definitely.Self-trust greatly influences our inspiration and morale - nothing can stop you when you trust your skills.Success is never instant. And people who try to sell you those ideas only want your money. Success is a journey with the unwavering belief that you will win. I failed many projects in my life, and I gave up. I learned my lessons, and that’s important. But at one point, you will start to wonder: when will I succeed?

The Winner Mindset (1)

If you’re lucky, you might even be failure-resistant. You might know <a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/p/building-grit-how-to-fight-life-challenges">failures are a necessary step towards success </a>. But at one point, it will become too much to bear. And you will make one of two choices.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">You will give up for good.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">Or you will use all the collected data to focus on one last project. And this time, you won’t care about failures. You will keep going for 3-4 years and see what happens.</li></ul>The first choice will relieve your stress but leave you with regret. The second will bring you success, but you have to trust it.

The Winner Mindset (2)

Always do your best, no matter the size of the audience.I started this journey when I randomly got one paid subscriber.At the time, I was writing a monthly mail and random articles on Medium. I was making close to no money. I earned only 70$ on my best month after two years of hard work. And I didn't have a plan.But that random paid subscription pushed me to take this newsletter seriously. So, in the next few days, I started wondering about this project I had on my mind for years — monthly challenges. And when I started 15 months ago, I promised myself one thing.

The Lone Listener (1)

As long as I have even one paid subscriber, I will do my best to keep my promises and deliver The Challenge’s weekly issue.In the first year, I failed to deliver only twice. But next year, I know I can do better. I can prepare and schedule my content to cover holidays and trips. And The Challenge will become even better.This is the mentality that will bring you far. Give your best, no matter the size of your audience. Don’t look where you are, but where you could be in a few months.

The Lone Listener (2)

Some days, you will wake up full of motivation. But most days, you won’t. And there’s nothing you can do about that. But you can shift your mindset and get inspiration in other ways to keep working on your dreams.This week, I want you to track your motivation and find inspiration from these or other ideas when you are in a bad mood.[<a href="https://cosmopolitanmindset.substack.com/p/motivation-hacks-for-when-you-wake-up">DOWNLOAD</a> THE FREE INFOGRAPHIC]

Struggling to find motivation on tough mornings? Discover practical hacks to lift your mood and boost your drive, even when you wake up feeling low. Transform your day!

Motivation Hacks for When You Wake Up Feeling Low

Let’s be honest. Most people are clueless when it comes to managing their money. They don't know where their hard-earned cash is going, and month after month, they’re left wondering why they aren’t getting ahead. But if you don't have a plan for your money, it will run your life.Living paycheck to paycheck, overspending on things you don’t need, and failing to save for the future is a recipe for financial disaster. But it doesn’t have to be this way.

Living Paycheck to Paycheck

The 50/30/20 Rule is a straightforward budgeting method that forces you to take control, prioritize what matters, and build a future you're proud of.I will show you how this rule can completely transform your money mindset. It will help you stop the bleeding and start saving for the life you truly want.Will you continue feeling overwhelmed by your finances? Or will you take control and start building your financial freedom?

The 50/30/20 Rule Revolution

The 50/30/20 Rule is a famous budgeting strategy that divides your income into needs, wants, and savings.According to this rule, you should need 50% of your income to live your life. You may dedicate 30% of what you gain to buy things you wish. And you should save the remaining 20%.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">50% Needs: rent, groceries, utilities, and essential living expenses.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">30% Wants: dining out, entertainment, fashion clothes and devices, and non-essential purchases.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">20% Savings: investments or other savings.</li></ul>

What Is The 50/30/20 Rule

You might have a more complex or simple financial plan based on your situation. But the 50/30/20 Rule is the more versatile and adaptable tool you could use. So, it is suitable for most people.<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">It’s simple. You don’t need to track every single expense. You could work with rough estimations.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">It’s flexible. You can adapt it to any income or lifestyle if you spend too much on wants.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">It’s balanced. You can still spend on fun activities but also think about your future.</li></ul>

Why Does The 50/30/20 Rule Work?

When people think about the 50/30/20 Rule, they assume they must multiply their income by 0.5, 0.3, and 0.2. But that’s only the core concept. Let’s make it more resistant.This approach doesn’t consider people who need more than 50% of their salaries to live. How could they follow this rule?I want to suggest another approach. Let’s call it the “Reality Check 50/30/20 Rule” (or RC 50/30/20 Rule).Follow these steps to build an RC50/30/20 Budget.

How To Apply The 50/30/20 Rule

If you are an employee, that shouldn’t be a trouble. Otherwise, remove taxes from your income.

1 — Calculate your net income.

I know I promised not to micro-manage your expenses. But you have to start with an idea of your monthly expenses.Do you have any subscriptions?How much do you pay for rent?Put all those entries under the correct category: needs, wants, and savings.

2 — List all your expenses.

Here, you can understand how much money you will need monthly to live. If that’s more than 50%, remove the budget from the other two categories. If it’s less, you can increase the other two.However, keep a 5-10% margin on your needs. Otherwise, you will take money from your Wants budget every month.

3 — Sum up your needs.

Most times, this won’t be the other half of the income. So, you could calculate the 60% and 40% on the remaining money for wants and savings.

4 — Divide the remaining money in 30/20.

You don’t have to micro-manage every single penny. But get a rough idea of where you spend your money.I suggest using an app that reminds you to input your expenses daily or weekly.

5 — Track your expenses.

The 50/30/20 Rule is simple to use. But it’s easy to make mistakes as well.There are common pitfalls that can hinder your progress.In this section, I want to highlight those I see more often. If you can avoid it, you will probably remain on track.

Common 50/30/20 Mistakes

The Needs category includes everything necessary for you to live. That includes your debts, grocery expenses, tickets to commute to work or car expenses, and your utilities or medical expenses.But, for sure, it doesn’t include your gym subscription. And, for sure, it doesn’t include your Netflix subscription.If your life won’t drastically change without it, it’s not a need.

Mistake 1 — Misclassify your needs

You have to keep track of unexpected expenses and understand where to take the money from.Also, gifts are not unexpected expenses because you forget your friend’s birthday.First, you are an awful person. Second, that would be a Wants expense.

Mistake 2 — Ignore unexpected expenses

There are two reasons why you would adjust a budget:<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">a new recursive expense</li><li class="ql-align-justify">a change of salary</li></ul>In both cases, you need to update your budget. You can’t assume you will have the same availability and needs after these changes.If your needs grow, your wants and savings will diminish accordingly. If they shrink, you can use all the extra money just for the Wants. And you have to save more too.

Mistake 3 — Not adjusting your budgets

The beauty of the 50/30/20 rule is its adaptability.We all have different financial goals. Some people wish to find a way to save some money. Others might want to invest more. For some, paying up their debts is their highest priority.No matter your financial goals, you can use the 50/30/20 rule to reach them. Let’s see some examples.

How To Reach Your Financial Goals

<ul><li class="ql-align-justify">You save more than 20% of your monthly income.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">You gain much more than you spend.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">You want to achieve financial independence.</li><li class="ql-align-justify">You paid most of your debts and can now focus on growing wealth.</li></ul>

Saving-Focused Approach

Stop Wasting Money: Master the 50/30/20 Budget Rule for Financial Freedom – Simple Steps to Take Control of Your Finances, Save More, and Achieve Your Long-Term Goals

7 Money Rules You Should Never Break to Build Wealth

Never Lose Focus Again: 4 Extraordinary Methods You Need to Know

Find Your 5 Essential Hobbies And Transform Your Life Right Now

Motivation Hacks for When You Wake Up Feeling Low

Stop Wasting Money! Start Budgeting with the 50/30/20 Rule

Cosmin Angheluta