In today’s rapidly changing economy, where AI is transforming jobs and inflation is driving up costs, being smart about money has never been more crucial. That’s why I’m excited to share this guide to taking control of your money in 2025.
I’m Sherron Permashwar, A CPA who is passionate about helping individuals manage their finances more effectively. Throughout my career, I’ve seen how understanding your finances can transform not just your bank account, but your entire life. I believe in a three-step path: understand your motivation, develop smart money thinking, and get hands-on with managing your finances. ( Motivation, Mindset then Mechanics Approach)
As we face the challenges of today’s economy, taking control of your money isn’t optional, it’s what separates just getting by from actually getting ahead. Let me show you what this means, why it matters now more than ever, and how my three-step approach can help you achieve financial peace of mind.
What Does Financial Control Really Mean?
Having financial control means you have the tools, understanding, and confidence to make good money decisions on your own.
While financial literacy is about understanding concepts, true financial control is about acting. People with financial control don’t just react to money problems, they spot opportunities and avoid pitfalls before they happen.
The Benefits of Taking Control:
- More independence in your life choices
- Less stress and worry about money
- Better ability to reach your personal and family goals
- Ability to weather unexpected financial storms
Why Financial Control Matters More Than Ever in 2025
In 2025, taking control of your money isn’t just nice to have—it’s essential. Our economy is changing rapidly, and staying ahead requires being proactive.
- Everyday items keep getting more expensive, making careful spending and saving crucial
- Technology and AI are changing how we work, affecting income stability for many people
- Housing and living costs continue to climb, forcing many to rethink their financial plans
- Debt levels are growing for many families, creating stress and uncertainty
In this environment, taking charge of your money isn’t just smart—it’s necessary for peace of mind.
My Three-Step Approach to Financial Control
Step 1: Motivation – Finding Your “Why”
Before we talk about budgets and investments, we need to understand why money matters to you. As I often tell my clients, “When your purpose isn’t clear, staying committed becomes much harder.”
Know what financial success means to you:
- What are the key morals or values your family lives by?
- What kind of lifestyle would make you truly happy?
- When do you want to achieve financial freedom?
Your motivation provides the energy needed to overcome financial challenges. Without it, even the best money tips won’t stick.
Step 2: Mindset – Changing How You Think About Money
The thoughts you have about money can influence your spending and saving. It’s more than being positive—it’s about making smart changes for a better future.
Improving your money mindset includes:
- Move from “I’m missing something” to “There’s always more for me to gain and grow.”
- Shifting your old money habits and beliefs for a better future.
- Celebrating small financial wins to build confidence
- Building your belief that you can handle money well
As your financial partner, I’ve seen time and again that mindset changes come before financial changes.
Step 3: Mechanics – Practical Money Management Tools
Only after establishing motivation and mindset do we tackle the practical side—the hands-on management of your money.
1. Create a Purpose-Driven Budget
Forget complicated budgeting. Budgeting in 2025 is all about making every dollar count and have a goal:
- Necessities (50%)
- Freedom Fund (20%)
- Growth Investments (20%)
- Lifestyle Choices (10%)
Use simple apps like Monarch Money, YNAB, or Personal Capital to make this easier.
2. Build Your Safety Net
In a world full of surprises, having some cash saved gives you peace of mind.
Create a three-part safety system:
- Level 1: Easy-access emergency fund (3-6 months of expenses)
- Level 2: Inflation-protected savings like I Bonds
- Level 3: Safe investments that can be accessed if needed
This isn’t just for emergencies—it gives you options when opportunities arise.
3. Get Smart About Debt
Not every debt hurts you—unless you let it pile up without a plan.
Try these approaches:
- Modified snowball method: Pay off smaller debts first for momentum
- Look for chances to refinance high-interest debt
- Think about how different debts can affect your taxes
Remember: successful people don’t avoid all debt—they use it wisely and minimize its cost.
4. Start Investing, Even Small Amounts
Starting to invest no longer needs a big budget—just a little money is enough.
Consider these options based on your comfort level:
- Simple index funds that track the overall market
- Fractional real estate investing through user-friendly platforms
- Inflation-protected investments during uncertain times
- Tax-smart accounts like Roth IRAs and HSAs
Start now with whatever you can. Slow and steady investing usually brings better results than jumping in and out of the market.
5. Keep Learning About Money
Financial education is an ongoing journey:
- Read accessible books like “The Psychology of Money”
- Listen to straightforward podcasts about personal finance
- Join my “Money Made Simple” newsletter
- Consider my “Financial Control Workshop” for hands-on learning
I always say: “The more you learn about money, the faster your wealth grows.”
Simple Habits for Building Wealth
Building wealth happens through consistent, intentional habits:
- Set up automatic transfers to savings on payday
- Check your overall financial picture quarterly
- Do a monthly money review to spot improvement opportunities
- Create an environment that makes saving easier than spending
Changing Your Money Mindset – From Worry to Confidence
The foundation of my three-step approach begins with changing how you think about money.
Many people are stuck in constant money worry—always feeling like there’s never enough. Instead, I help clients build a confident money mindset through:
- Practicing gratitude for what you have now
- Looking for opportunities instead of focusing on problems
- Keeping a simple journal of financial progress
- Connecting with people who have healthy money attitudes
Remember: Your thoughts about money were learned—and they can be relearned.
Common Money Mistakes to Avoid in 2025
Even careful people can fall into these modern money traps:
- Lifestyle inflation—spending more just because you earn more
- Ignoring the impact of interest rates on debt
- Waiting too long to start investing
- Making emotional money decisions based on social media
Conclusion
Taking control of your money in 2025 isn’t about becoming rich overnight—it’s about being intentional. It’s about finding your motivation, developing a healthy mindset, and then learning practical money skills.
As your partner in financial success, I remind my clients that transformation begins with a single step. Take one action today—whether it’s setting up a simple budget, opening a savings account, or scheduling a free consultation with me.
You already have what it takes to control your financial future. My role is simply to help you activate it through motivation, mindset, and mechanics.
Your journey to financial control starts right now.