12 Money Habits of Successful People That You Can Copy

2025-04-19Last Updated: 2025-04-19

Here’s a story. A few years ago I was sitting in a coffee shop with a friend who had just paid off her student loans. She looked at me, eyes wide and said, “I never thought I’d feel rich just having zero debt.” That hit me.

I realized then that money habits aren’t about yachts or million-dollar paychecks. They’re about the quiet, steady things you do every day. And guess what? The most successful people I’ve met all had one thing in common—they practiced smart money habits, even when no one was watching.

If you’ve ever wondered how successful people manage their money (and their peace of mind), you’re in the right place. These habits aren’t just for CEOs or finance gurus. They’re for you. Yes, you.

Let’s get into the 12 money habits that successful people swear by—and that you can totally steal (in the most legal way possible).

1. They Pay Themselves First

Before bills, before brunch, before that impulsive Amazon cart…

Successful people make sure to save a chunk of their income right away.

Think of it like feeding your future self. Even if it’s just $20 a week, that adds up. I started with auto-transfers of $50 a month and now? My emergency fund actually exists. Crazy.

2. They Track Their Spending (No Judgment)

Here’s the thing about budgeting: it’s not about punishment. It’s about awareness.

Successful people know where every dollar goes. Not because they’re control freaks, but because they want to tell their money where to go—not wonder where it went.

I use a colorful little spreadsheet that looks more like a game board than a budget. And when I see I spent $80 on tacos last month? I just… adjust. (Okay, maybe not the tacos. I have limits.)

3. They Don’t Let Lifestyle Creep Happen

What is lifestyle creep? It’s when you earn more… and spend more.

Successful people? They don’t let their expenses grow just because their income did. When they get a raise, they increase savings or investments—not subscriptions and gadgets.

Would it be fun to upgrade to the fancy gym? Sure. But would Future You rather have compound interest? Absolutely.

4. They Set Specific Goals (And Actually Write Them Down)

“Save more money” is too vague. “Save $3,000 for a Japan trip by next spring”? That’s a goal.

Successful people don’t just dream—they plan. They break big goals into bite-size wins, and they track progress.

One trick? Make your goals visible. Write them on sticky notes, your phone wallpaper or heck, even on your fridge. Your brain likes reminders.

5. They Invest Early—Even If It’s Just a Little

You’ve probably heard this a thousand times, but let’s say it again: Time is your biggest investing weapon.

Successful people don’t wait to be rich to invest. They start with what they have. Even $25 a month in a basic index fund can snowball into thousands over time.

Think of investing like planting a tree. You water it now so you can sit in the shade later.

Having trouble with investment decisions? Don’t miss my post The Golden Rules of Investing for some timeless principles to guide you.

6. They Know the Difference Between Wants and Needs

Do you need a new phone or do you want a new phone?

Successful people pause before big purchases. They ask questions like:

“Will this improve my life or just add clutter?”
“Could I wait 30 days and see if I still want it?”

Impulse shopping feels good for five minutes. Smart choices feel good for decades.

7. They Automate Smart Decisions

Want to know a secret? The fewer decisions you make, the better your habits stick.

Successful people automate good money habits:

Automatic savings transfers
Scheduled bill payments
Regular investing

It’s like putting your money on autopilot—so you don’t have to rely on willpower. (Because let’s be honest, willpower gets weak when late-night snacks are involved.)

8. They Avoid Bad Debt

Not all debt is bad. But bad debt? That’s the stuff that charges high interest and doesn’t build value—like maxed-out credit cards or payday loans.

Successful people use debt strategically (think: low-interest mortgages or student loans with a payoff plan). And they don’t carry balances on things that lose value fast.

Pro tip: If you wouldn’t want to pay interest on it for five years, maybe don’t buy it today.

9. They Read About Money (Even Just a Little)

Successful people are curious. They read blogs, books, listen to podcasts—anything to grow their financial knowledge.

You don’t have to be a money nerd. Even 10 minutes a week learning about compound interest or how credit scores work can change how you see your finances.

Think of it like brushing your teeth. Small, daily actions keep bigger problems away.

New to financial literacy? Start with my post Financial Literacy for Young Adults. It’s a good introduction to personal finance.

10. They Talk About Money

Let’s be real: money talk can be awkward. But silence doesn’t solve problems.

Successful people talk to their partner, friends or advisors about money. They ask questions. They admit mistakes. And they learn.

You don’t have to post your net worth on social media—but talking about money shouldn’t feel like a confession.

11. They Live Below Their Means (On Purpose)

Big one. Successful people don’t pretend to be richer than they are. They live simply—even when they could afford more.

Not about deprivation. About freedom. When you spend less than you earn you create space. Choices. Options.

One millionaire I interviewed still drives his 2012 Honda. Why? “Because I’d rather use that cash to buy assets than depreciating plastic,” he said with a smile.

12. They Practice Gratitude—Even With Finances

Sounds woo-woo, but stick with me. Successful people don’t just chase more—they appreciate what they have.

They write down what they’re thankful for. They reflect on how far they’ve come. This mindset shift helps reduce impulse buys and increase contentment.

Honestly? When I started journaling three things I was grateful for (even on tight budget days) my spending got way more intentional.

What Are the Top Habits You Should Start With?

If you’re just starting out here are 3 high-impact habits:

Automate saving at least $10/week.
Track your spending for 30 days.
Set one clear goal and put it somewhere you’ll see it daily.

Which one feels most doable for you right now?

How Do I Build Better Habits If I’ve Made Mistakes?

Start small. Be kind to yourself. Most successful people made money mistakes—they just learned from them.

You’re not behind. You’re building momentum.

Is It Too Late to Change My Habits?

Never! One of my favorite money mentors didn’t start saving until age 45—and still retired early. Time helps, yes, but good habits matter even more.

FAQ: Common Questions About Habits

Q: What’s the easiest habit to start today?
A: Set up an automatic transfer to savings—even if it’s just $5. It gets the ball rolling.

Q: How long does it take to build better habits?
A: Research says about 66 days. But the key is consistency, not perfection.

Q: Can these habits really make me rich?
A: Rich isn’t just about money—it’s about freedom. These habits build both.Q: Do I need to be high income to use these?
A: Nope. Many of these habits work no matter your income.

Q: What if I mess up one month?
A: That’s normal. Successful people mess up too—they just don’t quit.

Final Thoughts: You’re Closer Than You Think

Here’s the truth: successful people aren’t magical. They just practice the right habits over and over—until it becomes second nature.

And you? You’re fully capable of doing the same. Start with one habit. Then another. Soon you’ll look back and be amazed at how far you’ve come.

Your financial journey doesn’t have to be perfect. It just has to be yours.

So what’s the one habit you’re going to start this week?