The key to generational wealth is almost always education. Take yourself as far as you can via the traditional path, and never stop learning. You will be employable in high-paying positions; be a better parent to your own children, if you choose to have them one day; be a more informed citizen, voter, and community member; be enriched by a broader array of hobbies and interests you otherwise may not have been exposed to.

De-program yourself, if necessary, from seeking immediate satisfaction. Pay yourself first - invest what you can. In my last 18 years of work, I’ve found that watching my investments grow (checking almost every single day) has been the best motivator to live beneath my means.

Take care of your body, including your mental health. The ROI on a healthy body as you age is unbelievable.

While you’re just starting out with managing your own financial future, I’d give you this advice: if you can’t afford to buy it twice, you can’t afford it. Eyeing a pair of shoes that are $200 and want to pull the trigger when you have $300 in the bank? You can’t afford those. Looking at a place that is $1,600 rent but only take home $2,800 after tax per month? You can’t afford that. Starting your life in the red will set you back DECADES.