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Golden rules to become rich

People who become rich usually build their fortune over a long period of time and live below their means.

Profile of rich people

  • They don't necessarily earn a huge income.
  • They spend less than they earn.
  • They save their money and make their savings grow.
  • They manage their finances carefully.
  • They seize investment or business opportunities when they arise.
  • They don't necessarily drive luxury cars.
  • They may live in modest homes.

9 rules to follow

1.
Live below your means
Live on less than you earn. Test yourself by cutting your spending as much as you can over several months. You'll learn exactly how much you really need to be comfortable.
2.
Stop trying to impress others
Have the conviction that being financially independent is more important than looking like you're wealthy.
3.
Draw up a budget
Stick to it, every week.

Find out more

See Draw up a monthly budget.
4.
Put money into savings on a regular basis
Put the amount you want to save into your budget. To do this, subtract from your net income a set amount that you'll deposit each week or month into an investment account so it can grow.

In addition, try to set 5% to 10% of your net income aside into your emergency fund. The sooner you start saving, the more it will pay off.

Find out more

See How to save.
5.
Avoid getting into debt
You won't pay interest needlessly and you'll stay in control of your finances.

6.
Manage your assets well
Consult a financial planner to make sure your savings are invested in the right place.

Find out more

See Invest according to your needs.
7.
Protect your income stream and property
  • Protect your income stream with disability, health and life insurance.
  • Protect your property and belongings with home and auto insurance.
8.
Adopt good habits
  • Take time to take care of your health, because it's your most valuable asset. By staying healthy, you maintain your ability to work.
  • Take good care of your belongings so they last as long as possible.
  • Use what you already have. Don't shop just for the pleasure of it.
  • Avoid spending on services you could be doing yourself.

Find out more

See Responsible consumption.
9.
Change your spending habits
  • Don't kill time in shopping centres or stores.
  • Make a list of what you really need and plan your purchases ahead of time. Save up the money you need for your purchases instead of borrowing it. This will give you time to hunt for sales and you won't end up paying interest.
  • Buy used cars, furniture, clothing, etc. New things lose value as soon as you take them out of the store—don't take the depreciation hit. To find out more about just how much you can save by buying used cars instead of new ones, see Buy a car page.
  • Create an exchange network with family and friends for CDs, books, clothing, etc.
  • Learn to barter for services.

For more information
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Money question

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