When you think about your current financial situation, how do you feel? Are you in control of your money, or does the thought of checking your bank balance fill you with anxiety? Where are you on your personal finance journey?
I used to fall into the second category. Despite working hard, my income never quite covered my expenses. I wasn’t living extravagantly—far from it. But with only minimum-wage jobs and no one to share bills with, every month ended in the red.
Changing My Financial Mindset
Living in a state of financial stress was exhausting. I knew things had to change, so I decided to work on my money mindset. I wanted to start saving, buy a home, and invest—but I didn’t truly believe I could. So I challenged myself to turn those limiting beliefs around.
I looked at friends who owned homes, had investments, and multiple income streams. They made personal finance look so easy. If it was possible for them, it could be possible for me—if I became intentional with every financial decision.
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Step 1: Learning to Budget
My first action was to create a weekly budget. Every Sunday, I reviewed my finances to track spending, bills, and savings. This habit alone changed everything. I began to feel more confident and in control of my money.
Through regular tracking, I identified where I could cut costs—switching suppliers, reducing unnecessary spending—and I redirected those small savings into an easy-access savings account.
Step 2: Becoming a Saver
As those savings slowly grew, I stopped relying on payment plans and began paying bills in full. This freed up more of my monthly income, which I then paid directly into a Cash ISA.
Month after month, I stuck with it. Pennies turned into pounds, pounds into hundreds, and eventually thousands. But I still had an uneasy feeling—what if an emergency wiped it all out?
That’s when I decided to give my money purpose.
Step 3: Investing as a Beginner
I took the plunge into investing, starting small and gradually building confidence.
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Online Investment Plan: I set up a monthly direct debit into a personal investment account. Regular investing can reduce risk and benefit from compound interest over time.
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Investment ISA: I opened an Investment ISA, which allows for tax-free interest up to the annual allowance. This became another way to build wealth while keeping my tax bill low.
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Self-Invested Personal Pension (SIPP): For greater control, I opened a SIPP. It required research and decision-making, but it gave me more flexibility alongside my workplace pension.
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Help to Buy ISA: Although this scheme is now closed to new applicants (ended 30th November 2019), I was fortunate to open one in time, helping me move closer to home ownership.
Now, with automated payments going into savings, pensions, and investment accounts each month, I finally felt like my money was working for me—not the other way around. I was well and truly on my personal finance journey.
A New Financial Outlook
None of this happened overnight. It took years of consistent action. But now I feel confident in my financial future and empowered by my money management skills.
I believe anyone—no matter their income—can improve their personal finances with the right tools, mindset, and planning. Today, the UK financial landscape offers more flexibility than ever. You can start investing with small monthly contributions and access products tailored to your lifestyle and budget.
My Evolution: From Employee to Business Owner
Thanks to my financial progress, I’ve built an emergency fund, savings, a pension, and multiple investments. I even used a portion of my savings to launch my own business.
I’ve created an opportunity that aligns both my values and financial goals. Now, I have the privilege of guiding other women on how to take control of their finances and believe in what’s possible.
6 Simple Steps to Change Your Financial Future
If you’re ready to take control of your money, here are the six things I recommend:
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Create a budget and review it regularly
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Pay down debt strategically
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Set a clear savings goal
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Build an emergency fund for unexpected expenses
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Start investing—the earlier, the better
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Do thorough research before making big financial decisions
Final Thoughts: Your Financial Future Starts with You
There is no quick fix for transforming your finances. But when you plan, stay consistent, and develop a resilient mindset, everything starts to change.
I used to feel trapped by my circumstances—until I realised I had the power to rewrite my personal finance story. With the right mindset and a solid plan, you can design a life that reflects your values, ambitions, and dreams.
You don’t have to stay stuck. Believe in your potential, take action, and change your financial future—starting today.
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Disclaimer: I am not a financial advisor and am not regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA). The content of this blog is for informational and educational purposes only and is based solely on my personal experience. It does not constitute financial advice. Always do your own research or consult a qualified financial advisor before making any financial decisions. All investments carry risk and may go up as well as down. Any actions you take based on the information provided are done entirely at your own risk.
