Simple steps for a 35 y.o to become rich by 50
Here’s the modified list, removing loans and focusing on non-interest-bearing debt, along with a sample calculation showing the power of saving 20% of income over 30 years with a 13% annual return.
20 Effective & Easy Financial Guidelines for Salaried Professionals
Savings & Budgeting
- Follow the 50-30-20 Rule – Allocate 50% to needs, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings and investments.
- Pay Yourself First – Before spending, set aside at least 20% of your income for future financial security.
- Automate Savings – Set up automatic transfers to savings and investment accounts to ensure consistency.
- Build an Emergency Fund – Maintain at least 6 months’ worth of living expenses in a liquid account.
- Track Expenses – Use a notebook or or spreadsheets to monitor where your money goes.
- Reduce Unnecessary Expenses – Avoid impulse spending and unused subscriptions to maximize savings.
- Review Your Finances Regularly – Assess your financial status quarterly and adjust goals accordingly.
Investments & Wealth Growth
- Follow the 100-Age Rule – Allocate (100 - your age)% of your portfolio to equities for long-term growth.
- Start Investing Early – The earlier you start, the more you benefit from compounding.
- Diversify Investments – Spread investments across stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and real estate.
- Increase SIP Contributions Annually – Raise your mutual fund SIP amount by at least 10% each year.
- Invest Consistently, Not by Market Timing – Regular investments beat market speculation.
- Consider Inflation in Planning – Ensure your investments grow faster than inflation.
Debt & Responsible Spending
- Avoid Unnecessary Debt – Borrow only for absolute necessities like education or emergencies.
- Use Interest-Free Payment Plans Wisely – If available, use zero-interest installment plans but avoid overspending.
- Control Credit Card Usage – Pay the full bill every month to avoid penalties and maintain a good credit score.
- Live Below Your Means – Spend less than you earn to achieve financial security faster.
Retirement & Future Planning
- Follow the 25X Rule for Retirement – Aim to accumulate at least 25 times your annual expenses for financial independence.
- Invest in Health & Term Insurance – Protect yourself and your family with adequate coverage.
- Create Passive Income Streams – Explore side businesses, rental income, or dividends for additional financial security.
Sample Calculation: Saving 20% of Income & Earning 13% Annually for 30 Years
Assumptions:
- Monthly income: ₹1,00,000
- Savings rate: 20% → ₹20,000 per month
- Annual return: 13%
- Time period: 30 years
Using the formula for Future Value of a SIP:
Where:
- (monthly savings)
- (monthly return)
- (months)
Let's calculate:
After 30 years, by saving ₹20,000 per month and earning a 13% annual return, your total savings would grow to approximately ₹8.84 crore.
This demonstrates the immense power of disciplined saving and long-term investing.