The 10 Commandments of Financial Wisdom

A Modern Guide to Smarter Living

In a world where financial distractions are everywhere—from shiny car leases to $18 salads—it’s more important than ever to adopt simple, timeless principles to keep your money in check. Here are 10 financial "commandments" to help you live smarter, save more, and build lasting wealth.

1. You shall bring your own lunch to work.

Eating out regularly drains your wallet faster than you think. By preparing and packing your lunch, you not only save hundreds (if not thousands) per year, but also have better control over your health and nutrition. The small daily savings add up—and they compound.

2. You shall not lease a car.

Avoid car leases like the financial traps they often are. If you must buy a vehicle, aim to pay in cash or minimize your loan term and aggressively pay off the principal. Remember: cars are depreciating assets, not status symbols.

3. You shall take public transit when it makes sense.

Convenience has a cost. If public transit is a safe and viable option in your area, use it. It reduces wear and tear on your car, lowers gas and insurance costs, and often saves time and stress during rush hour.

4. You shall prioritize an emergency fund of 3–6 months' income.

Life throws curveballs—job loss, medical bills, or surprise repairs. A fully stocked emergency fund is your financial shock absorber. Keep it liquid (in savings, not investments), and don’t touch it unless it’s a true emergency.

5. You shall purchase your phone outright and use a prepaid or affordable plan.

Don’t get locked into overpriced contracts. Buy your phone outright when possible, and use a low-cost, no-frills carrier. Most of us don’t need unlimited data or the latest model every year—just something reliable.

6. You shall learn to do-it-yourself whenever possible.

From patching drywall to changing your oil, the internet is your free university. DIY tasks save you money, build self-sufficiency, and often give you better results than paying someone for basic work.

7. You shall audit your subscriptions regularly.

Streaming, apps, gym memberships—it adds up fast. Review your recurring charges every few months. Keep only what you truly use and enjoy. Ideally, limit yourself to just 2–3 entertainment subscriptions.

8. You shall renegotiate your insurance every 2–3 years.

Loyalty doesn’t always pay in the insurance world. Shop around every couple of years for your home and auto policies. Rates creep up over time, but switching providers or bundling can often lead to big savings.

9. You shall grocery shop with a plan.

Wandering the grocery store without a list leads to impulse buys and food waste. Plan your meals for the week, make a list, and stick to it. You’ll eat better, spend less, and reduce stress during the week.

10. You shall buy for durability, not trends.

Fast fashion, cheap gadgets, and flimsy furniture are long-term money pits. Invest in quality items that last. Pay attention to reviews, warranties, and materials—buy once, not twice.

Final Thoughts

Financial wellness isn’t about deprivation; it’s about discipline and intention. Follow these commandments not as rigid rules, but as guiding principles. The more you align your habits with long-term thinking, the more freedom and peace you’ll gain.