I am working off my credit cards now, but delayed them literally years (at the cost of ~1k in interest) when I was making less money. I definitely understand c

I am working off my credit cards now, but delayed them literally years (at the cost of ~1k in interest) when I was making less money. I definitely understand compound interest, but it works both ways. If I put 1k into a 401k now that is 1k is no longer liquid. I think, (and I may be wrong about this.. but my whole strategy is based off it), keeping that 1k liquid will offer a higher short-term return.