Income Rises, So Does the Temptation
As you age and progress in your career, one thing almost always goes up: your income. That’s the good news. The bad news? With more income comes more responsibility — and often, more temptation.
Most people don’t want responsibility. They want enjoyment. They want the freedom to spend as soon as the paycheck lands. And while there’s nothing wrong with treating yourself, the truth is this: if your spending grows at the same pace as your income, your financial future is compromised.
The Rule That Flips the Script
The best financial advice I ever received was simple: do the opposite of what most people do.
Why? Because most people aren’t financially successful. They spend recklessly, avoid discipline, and ignore habits that build long-term wealth.
If you consistently make the opposite choices, you give yourself a far better chance at ending up with freedom instead of regret.
What Most People Do With Money
Here are the habits that keep people broke, even as their paychecks grow:
- Spending more than they earn.
- Adding debt every single year.
- Carrying a car note that drains monthly cash flow.
- Buying homes that eat their income instead of building equity.
- Overspending to impress others and protect appearances.
- Relying on student loans instead of smarter paths to education.
The pattern is obvious: short-term pleasure wins, and long-term security loses.
My Rule: Investments Rise With Income
Here’s my formula: when my income rises, my expenses stay flat. What goes up instead? My investments.
That means I don’t celebrate a raise with new clothes, a bigger car payment, or a flashier lifestyle. I celebrate by buying more assets — things that grow, multiply, and create freedom. Average people don’t think this way. They trade the future for fleeting satisfaction.
The Golden Years Without Gold
The phrase “golden years” was supposed to mean prosperity. But for many, retirement arrives without wealth, without peace, without options.
Why? Because short-term impulses ruled their decisions for decades. No matter how much money you make, without discipline, it slips away.
Stephen Covey said it best: begin with the end in mind. If every decision puts you closer to financial freedom, you win. If not, you’re setting yourself up for a retirement with no gold in sight.
Enjoy Life, But With Intention
Enjoyment isn’t the enemy. Life should be lived fully. But if you want prosperity later, you need to prioritize prudently. Spend on experiences, people, and things that enrich you — not on accumulating material distractions that lose value instantly.
Every dollar you align with your future is a step toward freedom. And freedom beats shiny things every time.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered financial advice. Always do your own research and consult with a licensed financial advisor before making investment decisions.
Featured Image by Dikaseva on Unsplash