Financial and life advice to a younger me

Why does everyone need financial advice?

I’m 32y8m right now, working in the private sector for 11 years and targeting early retirement through financial independence. Now that I’ve gained some experience and maturity in work and life, I would do certain things differently in the various stages of my past life, if given a chance.

Childhood

– Be happy, satisfied and thankful for what you have. Don’t crave and demand things which other's have  and you don’t.

My parents put in an enormous amount of hard work, sacrifices and investment for our(me and my brother) upbringing and education. While they fulfilled most of our frequent and exorbitant demands, it would have been derailing their financial plans.

 

Education

• Study to gain knowledge, not just to pass or to get high marks.
• It’s better to develop a hobby or passion in school/college so that you know what you love to do.

I passed school with good marks. Got lucky and qualified for B.E. and then got a job on campus.
Did I learn something? No, I was just following others.
Although I never loved my job(s) but am always dedicated, honest and diligent to it. However, if someone asks about my hobbies, interests or what I love to do, I don’t have an answer. It’s a terrible feeling to have.

 

Career

• Start investing early. Also, invest to up-skill yourself (if your company isn’t).
• Start budgeting and tracking your expenses as soon as you start earning.
• Buy what you need, not what you want. 
• Be curious, ask questions, explore new investment instruments and take calculated risks. 
• Do proper research and gain sufficient knowledge before investing in share markets. 
• “Health is Wealth”. Limit drinking and quit smoking(injurious to health and pocket) 

 

Do read the financial mistakes that I regret now. 

 

What financial advice do you have for your younger self? Please share in the comment section.