For many of us who began investing later in life, we often carried a sense that we should have started sooner. Whether it was that quiet, nagging feeling that we weren’t doing enough for retirement or the mistaken belief that the traditional blueprint of securing a good job and relying on pensions or Social Security would be enough—we missed an opportunity. At twenty-five, retirement feels distant, almost unreal, and for some, the uncertainty of life itself can cloud long-term planning.
In certain communities, especially those facing systemic challenges, the idea of planning for a future 40 years down the line feels like a luxury. It’s hard to see past tomorrow when survival takes priority. Yet, even in these environments, there are brilliant young minds, full of potential, whose opportunities are often stifled. The difference between a bright future and a missed one often boils down to two factors: mindset and opportunity.
But what if we could change that trajectory early on? If I had to guess, I’d say many of us who started late with investing have one thing in common: we didn’t grow up in households where finances were openly discussed. Think about it—education, religion, and even sports are more likely to be ongoing conversations at home than financial literacy. This has to change. And that change starts with us—parents, educators, and mentors.
Teaching financial literacy doesn't have to be overwhelming or intimidating. We live in the information age—there’s an abundance of resources at our fingertips, and we carry around a smartphone that gives us access to all the knowledge we need. The first step? Just start. Start by reading a financial book. Start by listening to a financial podcast. Set up an investment account, even if it’s only $50 a month, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Use this as an opportunity to model lifelong learning to your children or students. Show them that financial literacy is not something to fear but a skill that empowers.
In the same way that we teach our kids how to navigate the digital world or excel in school, we can teach them the basics of saving, investing, and smart money management. When you begin to make these changes in your own financial habits, you might find that your social circle shifts too. It’s not uncommon to lose friends or even face push-back when you start making financial decisions that align with long-term goals instead of short-term pleasures. But these sacrifices are necessary for financial freedom. A good friend will understand if you choose to skip a lavish vacation to prioritize maxing out your IRA or paying off debt.
As parents and educators, we need to show kids that being intentional with money isn’t about deprivation—it’s about creating the freedom to live life on your terms. Help them understand that real wealth isn't flashy. It’s not about having the latest gadget or driving the fanciest car while drowning in debt. Real wealth is about stability, freedom, and opportunity—values we should all be striving to pass on to the next generation.
This journey won’t always be easy. You may face moments of doubt or feel overwhelmed, but it’s important to keep going. Financial literacy, like any other subject, takes time to master. If our kids can learn complex subjects like coding, social media algorithms, or sports statistics, they can certainly be taught the basics of managing money. At the end of the day, much of financial success comes down to mindset. The sooner we help kids develop a healthy relationship with money, the better prepared they’ll be to navigate life’s challenges.
So, start today. Whether you’re a parent, teacher, or mentor, your influence matters. You have the power to change the narrative for the next generation, ensuring they enter adulthood with the tools to build not just wealth, but lasting financial security.
