Getting curious about personal finance in high school sets you up for building a lifetime of financial independence, enabling you to confidently manage your money, avoid debt, and achieve your dreams. Start learning and exploring now, and you'll build habits that lead to a secure and prosperous future and knowledge that will guide you through financial decision making.

What is your first memory about money?  Where do you learn about what to do with money?  Many of us pick up values and attitudes about money from our families and caregivers.  Advertising, marketing, and social media pursuades and impacts our financial decisions.  

One thing that is clear is that by understanding our values, what impacts our decion making, and the basics of personal finance, such as how to balance a checkbook, use credit responsibly, and plan for future expenses, you can take control of your financial life and make smarter financial choices.

More and more high schoolers and young adults are caring about personal finance because it lays the foundation for financial independence and security.  Do you know what your credit score is?  You'll want to get familiar with this number because it acts as your report card to financial institutions.

As you enter adulthood, you'll face various financial responsibilities, like paying for college, tradeschool, or classes, buying a car, or renting an apartment. Knowing how to manage your money effectively can help you avoid debt, save for future goals, and handle unexpected expenses. Moreover, good financial habits developed early on can lead to a more comfortable and stress-free financial future.  Knowing how to pivot, or change directions when something unexpected happens, is going to be what transforms a mistake into a financial learning experiences.

Understanding personal finance empowers you to make informed decisions about your financial future. It helps you set realistic goals, like saving for a trip or starting an emergency fund, and develop a plan to achieve them. Financial literacy also enables you to understand and navigate complex financial products and services, such as loans, insurance, and investments. By taking control of your finances now, you can build a strong financial foundation that will support you throughout your life.  Remember that you are the author of your life.  Are you ready to learn more about how to build up your wealth?