Start building real financial literacy today

Let’s be honest: school taught us how to solve for x and y, but never how to solve for “where did my salary go?”

They gave us algebra and the Pythagorean theorem, but skipped how to budget, save, and survive tax season. They told us mitochondria is the powerhouse of the cell, but didn’t teach us how to survive month-end.

And now? We’re trying to figure out life, money, bills, family responsibilities, and “soft life” pressure, all without a manual.

So, in honour of Financial Literacy Month, Momentum Velocity Club is flipping the script. Here are the lessons you should’ve been taught, with tips to get you back in control of your money.

1. Budgeting is the foundation, not a punishment 

   Budgeting isn’t about restriction - it’s about awareness. Without a budget, your money disappears into midnight takeaways, baby shower contributions, and Uber rides you don’t even remember taking.

   The fix? Start small. Track what comes in, and where it’s going. You’ll spot leaks fast. Use a notes App, a budgeting App like one of these, or an old-school Google Sheet.

2. Good debt builds you - bad debt breaks you

   Some debt can grow your future: think student loans, property, or even business investments. But buying sneakers, gadgets, or party outfits on credit? That’s debt that traps you.

   Know this: If it doesn’t increase your long-term financial position, it’s not good debt. And if the interest rate is higher than your salary increase? Think twice.

3. Money habits matter more than salary size

   Even people earning six figures go broke if their habits don’t align. The trap? Lifestyle inflation: spending more as you earn more.

   Try this: Set a savings goal before increasing your spending. If your salary goes up, up the amount you save and/or add to your investment account first.

4. Emergency funds aren’t for “one day” - they’re for tomorrow

   If COVID taught us anything, it’s that nothing is guaranteed. A medical bill, retrenchment, or car breakdown can derail your finances overnight.

   Build a buffer: Aim to save at least 3–6 months’ worth of essential expenses. It’s your safety net for life’s inevitable curveballs.

5. You can love your family and set boundaries

   Black tax and sandwich generation burden is real. But supporting your family shouldn't bankrupt your future.

   Start with a plan: Know what you can afford to give and communicate that clearly. “I can contribute R500 this month, but not more.”

   Clear. Kind. Boundaries.

6. Real financial literacy = confidence + control

   Money doesn’t have to be scary. But avoiding it won’t make it go away. Understanding tax, debt, interest, and budgeting means making smarter moves - and sleeping better at night.

   Don’t know where to start? Start here. With one blog, one tip, one decision.

   Your move:

         - Pick one thing from this list to act on this week.
         - We’ll help you build better habits.
         - Share this with someone who’s still solving for x and y, when they really need an
           actual plan for their money.

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