Many high schoolers have jobs. When people start making money, they either spend it or let it sit in the bank. Especially with many seniors about to be in the real world, it’s important to make the best financial decisions. If you’re one of those people who wants to be smart with your money, Coach Norman, a money management teacher here at Trinity, has a few tips for you.

1. Credit cards are tools, not free money (be smart).
A credit card can help you build a good credit score if you use it wisely. But if you treat it like free money, the debt will pile up fast and hurt your future.

2. Budgeting isn’t boring, it’s a MUST.
A budget helps you see where your money is going and keeps you from wasting it. When you control your money, you control your future.

3. Don’t compare yourself to your friends; stay in your lane.
Just because your friends have nicer things doesn’t mean they’re smarter with money. Focus on your own goals and stay true to what you can afford.

4. Buy assets, not liabilities.
Assets, like savings or investments, make you money over time. Liabilities, like expensive shoes or cars, take money away from you.

5. Live below your means.
Spend less than you earn. It’s that simple. The more you save now, the more freedom you’ll have later.

6. Save before you spend.
Put part of every paycheck or allowance into savings first. What’s left is what you can use for fun or spending.

7. Start investing early: compound interest is your friend.
The earlier you invest, the more your money grows over time. Even small amounts can turn into big gains if you give them enough years to compound.

8. Your greatest wealth-building years are between ages 20-30.
Those years set the tone for your financial future. If you save and invest then, you’ll be far ahead of most people by the time you’re older.