When payday hits, do you find yourself paying everyone but yourself? Mortgage, car payment, groceries, utilities—then, if there’s anything left, maybe you save a little.
That’s completely backward.
The secret to building real wealth isn’t about saving what’s left—it’s about making yourself the priority. That’s the magic of paying yourself first. Let’s break it down.
What Does “Pay Yourself First” Even Mean?
Paying yourself first means automating your savings before you spend a single dollar on bills, shopping, or entertainment. by automating it, and having it come out first, we don’t have a chance to spend it. It’s the act of prioritizing your financial future, just like a non-negotiable bill. It may feel strange, especially as a woman, to put yourself first… but I challenge you, give it a try!
Imagine if every payday, you took 10-20% of your income and put it straight into savings, investments, or a retirement account—before even thinking about expenses. You’d build wealth without feeling like you’re sacrificing.
Think you can’t do it? Check out this story told by Tony Robbins here. I’m pretty sure it will encourage you!
Why This Works Like Magic
1️⃣ You Make Saving a Habit, Not an Afterthought
If saving is the last thing you do, chances are, it won’t happen. By making it your first move, you ensure financial growth without relying on “leftovers.”
2️⃣ You Build Wealth Automatically
When you automate savings (direct deposit into an investment or savings account), you eliminate the temptation to spend impulsively. Your wealth grows without effort.
3️⃣ You Reduce Stress and Gain Freedom
When unexpected expenses pop up (and they always do), you’ll have a financial cushion. Imagine the peace of mind knowing you have a growing emergency fund and investments working for you.
4️⃣ You Flip the Scarcity Mindset into Abundance
Instead of thinking, “I can’t afford to save,” you shift into, “I always prioritize my future.” The simple act of putting money away first rewires your brain for financial success.
How to Start Paying Yourself First
✅ Step 1: Decide on a Percentage
Aim for at least 10-20% of your paycheck. If that feels like too much, start small—even 5% matters. The key is to begin.
✅ Step 2: Automate It
Set up an automatic transfer from your checking account to savings, investment accounts, or retirement funds. Make it invisible so you’re not tempted to touch it.
✅ Step 3: Adjust Your Budget Around What’s Left
After you pay yourself, use what’s left for bills and lifestyle expenses. You’ll be surprised how quickly you adjust!
✅ Step 4: Increase Over Time
As you earn more, bump up your savings rate. The goal is to get to a place where your investments work harder than you do.
The Bottom Line
You work way too hard to be broke. Paying yourself first is how you build financial security, reduce stress, and create lasting wealth—without feeling like you’re missing out.
💡 Start today. Even if it’s just $50 per paycheck, or $25, the habit will change your future. Your future self will thank you