I’m 21m, live with my parents, and work full time in fast food for about $12/hr. I don’t have a car or license. I don’t have any idea what I want to do long term but I know I’ll need money. I’d like some help becoming financially independent because I don’t know where to start.
You can use a simple Google Sheets doc to track your expected income vs expenses and savings. We started with Dave Ramsey but outgrew it. The envelope system can help for discretionary spending. Just subtract your bills and savings, then put cash in envelopes for groceries, fast food, entertainment. You need to eat, but it’ll show how fast food impacts cooking for yourself.
Since you’re living with your parents and have disposable income, save every cent you can. It’ll help a lot once you have bills. I love Caleb Hammer on YouTube; he’s very realistic and offers programs to keep you on track. Look for creators who give meaningful financial advice instead of doom scrolling. It’s okay not to know what you want to do. I’m 21F and switching from working 7 days a week for someone else’s business to planning my own future. Keep searching for new opportunities and start saving and investing now. Also, consider adding another source of income for some extra spending money. Remember, if you start today, you’ll be closer to your goal tomorrow. Good luck, you’re not alone in this!