The Art of Saving: A Lifelong Journey

Consider saving not as a final destination, but as a continuous voyage. At America’s Credit Union, we believe that saving is a practice, not a place you reach. It’s a practice that can be cultivated at any stage of life. Whether you’re a parent instilling this practice in your children or an individual aiming to alter your own saving habits, there are techniques that savers of every age can adopt.

Early Financial Education for Children

Studies indicate that by the age of seven, children’s financial behaviors are largely established, so teaching kids about saving early on can make a significant difference. Parents often hear their children pleading for the latest toy, game, or fashion item they “absolutely need.” Does that ring a bell? These desires can be a powerful tool to teach kids about saving.

Setting Goals and Tracking Progress

Kids can learn to set a savings target and calculate the time needed to accumulate the necessary funds. Establish an engaging system to monitor their progress, offer steady support, and consider rewards like matching contributions. Discuss the satisfaction of watching their savings increase. Opening a Tree Fort Savings for your young learner is a great opportunity to discuss finances at an early age. And remember, actions speak louder than words – let your children see your own savings efforts.

Empowering Young Decision-Makers

Allowing children to make financial decisions is also beneficial. Giving them control over the money they earn or receive as presents from a young age is an excellent way to foster their self-assurance.

Foundations for Young Adults

For young adults starting to earn a steady and possibly larger income, understanding the distinction between necessities and luxuries is fundamental. The America Saves Spending and Saving Tool is a straightforward resource that offers a transparent overview of your finances, helping to distinguish between critical and optional expenses. An automated saving system, particularly via paycheck allocations, can guide young adults towards establishing a lifelong saving habit.

The Challenge of Saving Across Ages

Staying motivated to save for future goals can be challenging, regardless of age. It’s tempting to prioritize immediate desires – like buying those pricey sneakers now, planning a trip in a few months, or spending more income today with the intention to save more for retirement later. In these moments, we’re focused on our present selves, not considering our future needs.

Envisioning the Future Self

Envisioning our future selves – what we’ll want, what we’ll be doing, what we’ll value – is a method to nurture a saving mindset. Pondering questions about our future can help us shape a vision for what lies ahead. Consider:

• Where will your future-self reside?
• What will a typical day in your future look like?
• What pastimes will your future-self relish?
• What will be your future-self’s earnings?

Revisit your responses later to compare them with your current situation. The capacity to look forward, even if it’s just a short while into the future, is an effective strategy to emphasize the importance of saving now for later. This reflection is suitable for all ages, children included.

Continuing the Saving Journey

Life’s journeys are diverse, and the same goes for journeys in saving. Continue your adventure with America’s Credit Union, whether you’re starting anew or getting back on track after a detour. Remember, it’s always the right time to #ThinkLikeASaver.