You’re not alone if you find yourself making poor financial decisions due to a lack of knowledge or guidance. According to a recent study done by the Investor Education Foundation, only 34% of Americans can answer four of the five basic financial literacy questions. But fear not! With the right mindset and approach, anyone can improve their financial literacy and take control of their money. 

In this blog, we’ll explore some straightforward tips to help you enhance your financial knowledge to make better financial decisions. Whether you’re looking to save more money, pay off debt, or invest in the future, these tips will provide you with a solid foundation to achieve your financial goals.

Tip 1: Start hitting the books

One of the simplest and most effective ways to enhance financial literacy is to read books and articles on personal finance. A wealth of information is available on financial management, ranging from basic concepts like budgeting and saving to more complex topics like investing and retirement planning. Reading financial literature will help you understand financial principles and strategies and provide practical tips and insights to help you make informed financial decisions.

Tip 2: Explore online resources

If you are not someone who enjoys reading, then watching financial education videos on YouTube or attending webinars can be an excellent alternative to gaining practical knowledge about various financial topics. These videos and webinars offer a dynamic and engaging way to learn about personal finance concepts and strategies and can be accessed from anywhere, at any time.

To help get you started, here are a few YouTube channels that we recommend:

The Dave Ramsey Show: Dave Ramsey is a well-known financial guru who offers practical advice on budgeting, saving, investing, and getting out of debt.

The Financial Diet: The Financial Diet is a channel that offers practical tips on how to save money, pay off debt, and live a more financially independent life.

The College Investor: The College Investor provides useful advice and resources for millennials and college students on topics such as investing, budgeting, and student loans.

Tip 3: Follow the experts

Social media platforms like Twitter and LinkedIn can be excellent resources for improving your financial literacy. By following financial experts and influencers, you can stay up-to-date on the latest trends and insights in personal finance. Many financial experts share valuable tips and advice on social media, from creating a budget to building an investment portfolio. You can also engage in conversations with other individuals who share your financial interests and learn from their experiences.

Tip 4: Practice good financial habits

Good financial habits are essential to improving your financial literacy and achieving your financial goals. Paying bills on time, avoiding unnecessary debt, saving a portion of your monthly income, and using online financial tools and resources, such as budgeting apps and investment calculators, can all help you manage your finances and make informed decisions. These simple habits may seem small, but they can have a significant impact on your financial health and help you achieve your long-term financial goals.

Tip 5: Meet with a financial advisor

Meeting with a financial advisor can be a great way to improve your financial literacy and get personalized advice on how to achieve your financial goals. A financial advisor can help you understand your current financial situation, identify areas where you can improve, and develop an actionable plan to achieve your goals. They can also provide guidance on important financial decisions, such as investing, retirement planning, and managing debt. 

Need financial advice?

Check out our previous blog post Master Your Money: How to Avoid Common Financial Mistakes. In addition, if you need personalized financial advice, our team is always here to help—contact us today to book an appointment!