I think most of the advice here is great, but it's not the advice I needed at 21. Here's what worked in my life: - Think about liabilities vs investments. Earl

I think most of the advice here is great, but it's not the advice I needed at 21. Here's what worked in my life: - Think about liabilities vs investments. Early on, I would invest in yourself. Gain new skills, education. Keep your teeth pristine. Spend money on well-fitting clothes and other things that will help your confidence. Things like cars, toys, etc are liabilities. They cost money, and don't generate any. - Develop frugal taste. Don't spend on name brands and luxury unless it's really important. Sometimes it is, though. - Buy nice stuff: when you buy stuff you think you will own a long time, buy nice stuff. Tools are a good example. I have a socket set I bought 25 years ago. (Related: take care of your stuff!) - If they suit you, find hobbies that can earn you money. The big winner in this category for me was poker, but I've also made some money at photography, programming, and pool, all of which were hobbies originally. - Just make a plan. If you don't make a plan, you don't know where the money goes. Your plan will be fine. Don't listen to any one of these comments too closely. Decide for yourself. You are the only expert on your own life.