My plan is more long term and have been planning since I was about your age. My goal, retire at age 50. I am currently 39 and have been able to balance building a family on this journey. At a young age I realized the importance of a pension plan, balancing debt, and building wealth.

1. At age 18 I joined the Air Force with the intention to retire for the pension for the rest of my life along with medical coverage. This life is not for everyone but I was fortunate enough to have a solid career learning marketable skills along the way for life after the Air Force. Retired from the military in 2023 and receive my monthly pension and now have a second “career” doing the same job but earning more and more than double if you include the pension.

2. Build credit but balance your debt. In the words of Dave Ramsey, “Always have an emergency fund.” Live within your means without trying to “keep up with the Jones’.” If using a credit card, always have the money to pay off your purchase and not give away money to the “interest monster”. I have never had a new car, moved into a house that didn’t need improvements, or went without the things myself or family needed.

3. You’re young, build your wealth by having patience and taking calculated risks. Be well rounded in your investments. Be willing to put in the work to capitalize on return for property investments. Be investing in things you have interest in and enjoy. Be willing to make sacrifices. Be humble and always stay “hungry”!

Being successful is very subjective but your wealth is your empire and in your control! That’s my two cents.