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6 Reasons Baby Boomers Were Never Broke and How You Can Follow Their Lead

April 17, 2025 By Teri Monroe Leave a Comment

6 Reasons Why Boomers Are Not Broke — Image Source: 123rf.com

Does it seem like your Boomer parents were never broke? For many Millennials and Gen Zs, it may seem impossible to get out of debt and grow your wealth. So, what financial secrets do Boomers live by? Here are 6 reasons Baby Boomers were never broke and how you can follow in their footsteps.

1. They Budgeted and Lived Within Their Means

Today, many younger generations give in to impulse spending and FOMO. Baby Boomers are well aware of their finances. In most cases, they don’t exceed their budgets or buy things they can’t afford. For example, if Boomers decide to take a vacation, they are very price-conscience and look for the best deals. When it comes to other purchases, they usually focus on needs over wants.

2. They Prioritized Big Purchases

Baby Boomers meticulously saved for larger purchases like homes and cars. They worked hard to pay off their mortgages and debts. Just because they tend to have a higher disposable income, they are still very value-driven in their spending and are more likely to make big purchases if they get a good deal. In contrast, many younger generations are quick to pay full price for bigger purchases, especially as the housing market has become more competitive.

3. They Stretched Every Dollar

Boomers are experts when it comes to money-saving hacks and cutting costs. They understand that you may need to buy things that are quality over quantity. For example, they don’t buy fast fashion the way younger generations do. They are more likely to cook at home than young people, and they often carry cash for purchases instead of using credit cards.

4. They Valued Their Money

Baby Boomers value things like how much money they have saved, and their self-sufficiency. They can be very prideful and don’t accept help or handouts. By having this mindset, they make sure that every dollar they earn is working for them by investing or growing their savings. For example, Baby Boomers have the largest percentage of their wealth in stocks and mutual funds. According to Federal Reserve data, about 28% of their wealth is in this category.

5. They Stayed in Their Jobs

Boomers are known for staying in their jobs. According to Fortune, a new poll says more than 40% of America’s baby boomers stayed with their employer for more than 20 years. This loyalty has paid off for many Boomers. Unsurprisingly, the driving factors are often tenures and traditional pensions. While many younger generations aren’t offered this opportunity for their retirement, Millennials and Gen Z can take a page out of Boomer’s book when it comes to job loyalty.

6. They Didn’t Spend More as Their Income Increased

Lifestyle creep is often a huge problem for younger generations. As their income increases over time, they usually continue to spend more and increase their budgets. One of the many reasons that Boomers are not broke is because they are traditionally more conservative with their money and frugal.

What financial tips will you adopt from Boomers? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.

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The Hustle Is Real: What No One Tells You About Working a Second Job to Get Out of Debt

April 8, 2025 By Teri Monroe Leave a Comment

things you need to know about having a second job — Image Source: Pexels

Working a second job to pay off your debt is no easy feat. For many, this is the only way to comfortably pay off their debt, especially since wages haven’t increased with inflation. NBC News reported that inflation outpaced wage growth for most workers in late 2021 and early 2022. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, in February 2025, 9 million Americans, or 5.5% of the civilian workforce, were working multiple jobs, marking the highest level since 2009.

The rising cost of household essentials has taken a toll on many families, pushing them further into debt. If this sounds similar to your situation, you may be considering working a second job. Before you start your search for an additional job, here are things that people won’t tell you about working a second job to get out of debt.

You Might Get Burnt Out

No one will tell you how fast you will get burnt out managing more than one job. Demanding schedules may leave you with less sleep and more stress daily. Make sure that you have an outlet to unwind and relax when you have downtime, or you may find yourself stressed and irritable more often. Self-care becomes even more important when you have a second job.

You Won’t Have Balance

You may struggle to find any work-life balance. You also might miss out on many important events with your friends and family because you don’t have adequate time off. This may also strain your relationships over time. At some point, this might not be sustainable for you.

You Still May Struggle to Pay Off Debt

You’ll have to be cognizant of lifestyle creep if you’re earning more. Managing your expenses and budgeting is very important when trying to pay down debt. Make sure that you have a plan as to how you’ll pay down your debt with your additional income, otherwise, you may not spend that additional money wisely.

Decline in Performance

If you’re stretched too thin, your work performance may decline. This could put both of your jobs at risk. Make sure that you are able to devote enough time to both of your jobs before taking on additional commitments. You’ll also have to consider if having a second job is a conflict of interest. Make sure to contact your HR Department if you are unsure, especially if you have a non-compete clause in your employment contract.

Opportunity Cost

The time that you spend on a second job could be used to increase your knowledge and skills, helping you grow in your primary job. You may be limiting your long-term career growth if you choose to have more than one job.

You’ll Pay More in Taxes

If you enter a different tax bracket because of your increased income, you’ll probably pay more in taxes. Make sure that you are filing your taxes appropriately if you have more than one job.

What are some reasons that you feel like you need a second job? How do you handle more than one job? Let us know your experience in the comments.

If You Stay With Her: 10 Reasons She’ll Always Keep You Broke

April 2, 2025 By Shay Huntley Leave a Comment

A couple leaving the shop after a successful shopping day. — Image Source: 123rf.com

Relationships are often built on love and shared values, but financial compatibility plays a critical role in long-term stability. Staying in a relationship with someone whose habits undermine financial growth can lead to a constant cycle of stress and stagnation. The following are ten reasons why staying with “her” (or any partner with these tendencies) might keep you from achieving financial security.

1. She Spends Beyond Her Means

A partner who constantly lives beyond her financial capacity may drain both your budget and future savings. Whether it’s unnecessary shopping sprees or luxury vacations, overspending quickly depletes resources. This behavior creates an unsustainable lifestyle and leaves little room for financial growth or stability.

2. She Avoids Budgeting

Financial planning requires discipline and cooperation. If she refuses to stick to a budget or ignores the importance of tracking expenses, it can lead to long-term financial chaos. Without a shared commitment to budgeting, it’s difficult to make progress toward shared goals like homeownership or retirement savings.

3. She Criticizes Your Financial Goals

A supportive partner respects and encourages your ambition, whether that means saving for a business or paying off debt. However, if she dismisses your financial plans or questions your priorities, it can hinder progress. Financial mismatches often emerge when values and goals aren’t aligned.

4. She Seeks Instant Gratification

When impulse purchases or instant rewards take precedence over long-term financial decisions, savings suffer. A partner focused on immediate gratification may not value investment opportunities or saving for the future. This tendency can undermine efforts to build wealth and secure stability.

5. She Rejects Financial Responsibility

Taking ownership of financial decisions is key in any relationship. If she avoids responsibilities like paying bills or managing joint expenses, the burden may fall disproportionately on you. Over time, this imbalance can lead to resentment and financial strain.

6. She Has Uncontrolled Debt

Close-up Of Debt Card And Debt Text On Stacked Wooden Block — Image Source: 123rf.com

Debt itself isn’t necessarily bad—many people rely on loans or credit for major life purchases. However, a partner who accrues debt irresponsibly or avoids repayment can sabotage your financial health. It’s crucial to address and manage debt together to avoid long-term repercussions.

7. She Ignores Financial Education

Financial literacy empowers individuals to make smarter decisions about money. A partner who isn’t willing to learn or improve her financial knowledge may struggle to contribute effectively to shared goals. Avoiding education can lead to missed opportunities and costly mistakes.

8. She Relies Exclusively on Your Income

A relationship built on mutual contribution fosters equality and stability. If she consistently relies on your income without exploring her earning potential, the dynamic becomes one-sided. Financial independence is important for both partners, ensuring a balanced and secure future.

9. She Prefers Short-Term Comfort Over Long-Term Security

Savings, investments, and careful planning require sacrifice and foresight. A partner who prioritizes short-term comforts—such as frequent dining out or extravagant purchases—over long-term financial goals can limit progress. Aligning priorities is crucial for building a sustainable future.

10. She Resists Change

Acknowledging financial habits and making adjustments requires self-awareness and a willingness to change. If she refuses to recognize harmful spending behaviors or actively resists improvement, it can prevent meaningful growth. Financial success often depends on adaptability and commitment to change.

Prioritize Financial Compatibility

Love is vital in a relationship, but financial compatibility ensures long-term success. If your partner exhibits these habits and refuses to address them, it’s worth re-evaluating the relationship’s impact on your future. Open communication and shared responsibility are key to overcoming financial challenges.

Have you experienced similar financial struggles in a relationship? Share your thoughts or experiences in the comments below!

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