I'm not that old. In fact, in 21 days I will be 27, which most people would consider quite green. But I really wish someone had taught me how money works when I was younger. I would certainly be far ahead in this game.
I received a decent education, and had teachers who were quite competent. However, I am of the strong opinion that I was jipped. I can diagram a sentence like a pro, recall important historical facts, quote the laws of physics, and perform simple mathematical functions (hated math.) I was even taught and given the tools for spiritual success. But I was NEVER taught how money works; how to save, spend, invest, avoid debt, etc. (I might add that this plays a part in one's spiritual walk. God's Word talks alot about money.) I know some would say that those things are common knowledge. I submit to you that if those items were so common, we would not be experiencing record numbers of foreclosures in our country right now. So I ask you, if you are on such a high horse, to come down and join us in real life- where Americans are making stupid and even mediocre money decisions every day because of a lack of education in our schools.
Had I been taught in school (mine being a private Christian school) that debt of any kind should be avoided, that a credit score is unnecessary, and NOT EVERYONE has a credit card, I would have avoided about $2000+ of school (and misc. other) credit card debt and the car loan I am now working feverishly to pay off. Not to mention house debt. I'm sure I would still have a mortgage, but I would be MUCH closer to to paying it off today.
Had I been taught in school how to save, I would have known a long time ago that a good rule of thumb is to keep 3 to 6 months of expenses in the bank for emergencies, and that I CAN save and pay cash for things including cars- if I'm patient.
Had I been taught in school how to invest, I would have properly funded not only my 401K, but also be knowledgeable enough to manage my funds. Of course, I'd most certainly be funding my Roth IRA as well.
I wish I could go back to my alma mater and tell them what I know now. I wish I could go tell them that "debt is dumb and cash is king and a paid-off home mortgage has taken the place of the BMW as the status symbol of choice." (Thanks, Mr. Ramsey.) I wish I could tell them that Normal is broke: BE WEIRD. I pray that someday the opportunity to help young people start off equipped with the money knowledge they need will present itself to me. Especially after I am debt free.
Sharing this with young adults- now that would be fulfilling.
Showing posts with label Youth. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Youth. Show all posts
Monday, December 31, 2007
Give me one good reason why MONEY wasn't in the curriculum
Posted by
SheGazelle
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