Do THIS When You Get Paid: 7 Steps to Financial Freedom

Getting paid is an exciting moment, but what you do next determines whether you’re building toward wealth or just getting by. Here’s a detailed guide on the seven steps you should follow when you get paid, featuring examples from ROI TV’s episode “Do THIS When You Get Paid: 7 Steps When You Get Paid.”

1. Plan Where Your Money is Going

Before spending a dime, you need a plan. Creating a budget helps ensure that you’re directing your paycheck towards important things like bills, savings, and investments. In the episode, it’s emphasized:

“The first step towards becoming wealthy is to use your paycheck effectively.”

A simple strategy is the 50/30/20 rule: 50% of your income goes to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings or debt repayment. For example, if you earn $3,000 a month, allocate $1,500 to rent, groceries, and utilities; $900 for fun spending; and $600 toward savings or debt.

2. Automate Your Savings

Automating savings means setting up an automatic transfer from your checking account to a savings or investment account every payday. This makes saving money effortless and ensures you pay yourself first.

In the episode, they talk about the importance of doing this before you spend:

“A portion of your paycheck should go directly into savings or investments before you can spend it.”

For instance, if you save 10% of every paycheck, set up an automatic transfer of $300 from your paycheck into a savings account. Over time, this adds up and helps you avoid spending the money impulsively.

3. Pay Off High-Interest Debt First

Debt, especially high-interest debt like credit cards, can erode your wealth quickly. The episode emphasizes paying off debt with the highest interest rates first because this debt grows rapidly if left unchecked:

“Before you blow your money, take a look at your debts. High-interest debt should always be the first to go.”

For example, if you have a $1,000 credit card balance at 18% interest, that debt will snowball. Pay it off aggressively before focusing on other financial goals. Use any extra income from bonuses or tax refunds to make a lump sum payment.

4. Invest in Growing Assets

Investing is key to building wealth, and it’s a major focus in the episode. By investing in assets like stocks, real estate, or retirement accounts, you allow your money to work for you over time.

“Instead of spending that extra paycheck, why not put it into something that will grow over time, like an index fund?”

For example, investing $500 a month into a diversified stock portfolio with an average return of 7% annually could grow to over $600,000 in 30 years. The earlier you start, the greater the rewards.

5. Build an Emergency Fund

An emergency fund acts as a financial safety net, helping you cover unexpected expenses like medical bills or car repairs without going into debt. The episode stresses the importance of having 3-6 months of living expenses saved:

“You never know when life is going to throw a curveball, and that’s why having an emergency fund is crucial.”

For example, if your monthly expenses are $2,000, aim to have at least $6,000 to $12,000 set aside. This fund will give you peace of mind and keep you from dipping into credit cards or loans in an emergency.

6. Avoid Lifestyle Inflation

Lifestyle inflation happens when you start spending more as you earn more. The episode advises resisting this temptation and continuing to live within your means:

“Just because you got a raise doesn’t mean you should start spending like a millionaire. Keep your expenses the same and save the extra.”

For instance, if you get a $500 raise, don’t immediately upgrade to a more expensive car or apartment. Instead, allocate that raise toward savings, investments, or debt repayment.

7. Review and Adjust Your Budget Regularly

As your income or financial goals change, it’s important to regularly review and adjust your budget. The episode reminds viewers that staying flexible with your financial plan is key to long-term success:

“Your financial goals will evolve, so make sure your budget evolves with them.”

For example, if you’re saving for a house or planning for retirement, your budget should shift to prioritize those goals. Adjustments can also be made for changes in income, such as starting a side hustle or losing a job.

Conclusion:
By following these seven steps, you can take control of your financial future every time you get paid. These simple strategies help you maximize your paycheck, eliminate debt, and grow your wealth over time. As the episode emphasizes, the key to wealth isn’t just how much you make, but how you manage what you earn.

Jaspreet Singh is not a licensed financial advisor. He is a licensed attorney, but is he is not providing you with legal advice in this article. This article, the topics discussed, and ideas presented are Jaspreet’s opinions and presented for entertainment purposes only. The information presented should not be construed as financial or legal advice. Always do your own due diligence.