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Turning 30 is a milestone, and your 20s are a great time to explore, make mistakes, and learn valuable lessons, especially about money. Here’s a tongue-in-cheek guide to 13 “stupid” things you should do with your money before hitting the big 3-0. After all, you can’t get it right until you get it wrong a few times!
1. Splurge on a Fancy Coffee Habit
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There’s nothing quite like starting your day with a fancy latte from your favorite coffee shop. Sure, it’s $5 a pop, but that morning ritual is an experience. You’ll learn the hard way how those daily indulgences add up over time. This is your chance to enjoy the little luxuries, even if they’re a bit overpriced. Plus, the realization will help you appreciate brewing your own coffee later on.
2. Travel Like a Rockstar
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Use your 20s to travel far and wide, even if it means draining your savings. Experience new cultures, food, and adventure while you can. Max out that credit card on a spontaneous trip to Bali or backpack through Europe. It’s not the most financially sound decision, but the memories are priceless. You’ll have great stories to tell and a new appreciation for budgeting on future travels.
3. Buy That Expensive Gadget
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Whether it’s the latest smartphone, a high-end laptop, or a cutting-edge gaming console, go ahead and splurge. It’s fun to have the latest tech, even if it sets you back financially. You’ll quickly realize the difference between want and need. This experience will teach you the importance of researching and prioritizing big purchases. And hey, at least you’ll enjoy some top-notch tech in the meantime.
4. Invest in Fashion Trends
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Spend your hard-earned cash on the latest fashion trends, even if they’re a bit ridiculous. Fill your closet with outfits that scream “youth” and “style.” You might look back and cringe, but it’s all part of finding your personal style. This phase will help you distinguish between timeless pieces and fleeting fads. Plus, you’ll get some fun Instagram posts out of it!
5. Dine Out Frequently
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Eating out at restaurants, grabbing takeout, and exploring new eateries can be a delightful (and expensive) hobby. While your wallet might not thank you, your taste buds will. You’ll quickly understand how dining out can blow your budget. Learning to cook at home will save you money and is a valuable life skill. But for now, enjoy the culinary adventure and the convenience.
6. Attend Pricey Concerts and Festivals
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Live music is an experience like no other, and your 20s are the perfect time to dive in. Spend your money on concerts, music festivals, and VIP passes. The memories and the joy of seeing your favorite bands live are worth it. This will also help you realize the importance of saving for big-ticket events. Enjoy the shows and dance like nobody’s watching!
7. Sign Up for a Pricey Gym Membership
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Joining an upscale gym can be a great motivator to stay fit. The fancy equipment, classes, and amenities seem worth the steep price tag at first. You’ll soon see if you’re truly committed to that investment. It’s a lesson in making use of what you pay for and finding cost-effective alternatives. Whether you stick with it or not, your health journey starts here.
8. Buy a Car You Can’t Afford
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That shiny new car is calling your name, even if the payments are a stretch. It’s tempting to buy a vehicle that’s more luxury than necessity. You’ll quickly learn about depreciation, insurance costs, and the reality of car payments. This will teach you the value of practical purchases and financial planning. Enjoy the ride while it lasts, and embrace the lessons it brings.
9. Host Extravagant Parties
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Throwing lavish parties can be a blast, even if they’re budget-busters. Spend on decorations, food, drinks, and entertainment to create unforgettable nights. Your friends will love you for it, and you’ll make amazing memories. However, you’ll also realize the cost of entertaining on a grand scale. This experience will help you master the art of budget-friendly gatherings in the future.
10. Upgrade Your Living Space
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Moving into a trendy, upscale apartment with all the bells and whistles feels like a dream. The reality of rent, utilities, and unexpected expenses will soon set in. You’ll learn about budgeting for living expenses and what truly matters in a home. This is a valuable lesson in finding a balance between comfort and affordability. Enjoy your fancy digs while you can!
11. Invest in Risky Ventures
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Taking financial risks can be thrilling, whether it’s investing in volatile stocks or a friend’s startup. Sometimes it pays off, but often it doesn’t. You’ll learn firsthand about the highs and lows of the investment world. This experience will teach you to research thoroughly and manage risks better. And who knows, you might hit the jackpot or at least gain valuable insights.
12. Buy High-End Home Gadgets
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Fancy kitchen gadgets, home entertainment systems, and smart home devices can be incredibly tempting. They promise convenience and luxury but come with hefty price tags. You’ll soon see if they’re worth the investment or just fancy toys. This phase will help you prioritize essential home purchases in the future. In the meantime, enjoy your state-of-the-art home setup!
13. Donate Generously
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Being generous and supporting causes you care about is commendable, even if it stretches your finances. Giving to charity, supporting friends, or contributing to crowdfunding campaigns feels great. However, you’ll also learn the importance of balancing generosity with financial stability. This will help you become a more mindful and sustainable giver in the long run. For now, embrace your altruistic spirit and make a difference.
Learn and Grow from Your Financial Follies
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Your 20s are a time for exploration, mistakes, and learning crucial life lessons. While some financial decisions might seem “stupid“ in hindsight, they’re all part of your growth journey. Embrace these experiences, learn from them, and use them to build a solid financial foundation for your 30s and beyond. After all, the best lessons are often learned through trial and error.
Read More:
13 Red Flags That You’re Falling Behind Financially in the U.S.
Are You Leaving Money On The Table? 12 Ways To Get The Raise You Deserve
