Growing your net worth means keeping more money and making it work for you. You don’t need a finance degree or a Wall Street connection—just some practical habits, wise decisions, patience, and even a few apps. And so, we’ve packed this list with real-world steps to make you financially confident.
Make Use of High-Yield Savings Accounts
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Your money should beat inflation while waiting for you to use it, so switch your savings to a high-yield account—think 4.00% APY or more. Online banks like Marcus by Goldman Sachs or SoFi offer great rates, often with no fees. That’s passive income without lifting a finger.
Automate Your Savings
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Set it and forget it isn’t just for slow cookers. Automating your savings can relieve the pressure of remembering to stash money each month. Apps like Chime or Ally let you schedule transfers to a savings account every payday, so you won’t miss what’s unseen in your checking account.
Start a Side Hustle That Fits Your Life
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Not everyone has time to work for Uber or Etsy. Look for gig work that slides into your schedule—freelance writing, tutoring, or even answering surveys. Websites like TaskRabbit, Upwork, and Swagbucks can help you earn money on your terms, even if you’re squeezing it in on lunch breaks.
Invest Through Micro-Investing Platforms
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Apps like Acorns or Stash let you invest small amounts—sometimes just your spare change. Round up purchases to the nearest dollar and stash the difference in a diversified portfolio. It’s an easy way to start investing, even if Wall Street feels a million miles away.
Track Every Penny for a Month
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For 30 days, write down—or use an app like Mint or YNAB—to track where every dollar goes. Most people are surprised by how much they spend on little things. Once you see the leaks, it’s easier to plug them. Awareness is the first step to better financial habits.
Renegotiate Your Bills Once a Year
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Cable, internet, car insurance—these don’t have to be set in stone. Call once a year and ask about promotions or competitor matching. Companies often lower their rate rather than risk losing you. Services like Billshark or Rocket Money will even make the call for you.
Make Use of Employer Benefits
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If your company offers a 401(k) match, take full advantage. Some companies also provide free legal help, tuition reimbursement, or gym memberships. Read the benefits handbook; perks might be hiding in plain sight that can save you hundreds. Don’t leave free money on the table.
Use a Credit Card Strategically
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If you use them correctly, credit cards can help you and not hurt your finances. Look for cards with cash-back rewards, no annual fees, and innovative features like price protection. Always pay off the full balance each month to avoid interest.
Declutter and Sell What You Don’t Use
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You’ve probably got at least a few hundred bucks lying around. By that, we mean those in old electronics, clothes, or furniture. Use sites like Facebook Marketplace, eBay, or Poshmark to turn clutter into cash. Bonus: it clears your space and your mind while padding your wallet.
Set a Specific Net Worth Goal
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Instead of vague plans like “I want to save more,” set a number. Use a free tool like Personal Capital to calculate your current net worth, then aim to increase it by a specific percentage. You’re more likely to stay motivated and focused when there's a finish line.
Meal Prep Instead of Ordering Out
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Ordering out multiple times a week? That’s draining your bank account fast. Try prepping meals for 3 to 4 days at a time. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, food away from home costs Americans over $3,000 per year. Cutting back by half could save you over $1,500.
Use Cash-Back Apps for Daily Purchases
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Shopping anyway? Apps like Rakuten, Ibotta, and Upside pay you cash back for things you’d buy regardless—groceries, gas, even takeout. Over time, those dollars add up and can go straight to savings or investments.
Learn One New Financial Skill
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Pick something: budgeting, investing basics, or understanding credit scores. Watch a YouTube video, listen to a podcast, or take a free online course. The more you know, the better your decisions. Knowledge doesn’t guarantee wealth, but ignorance can block it.
Limit Subscription Creep
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Paying for streaming services, monthly boxes, and more can add up. Review your subscriptions and cut the ones you barely use. Apple, Google Play, and Amazon let you see all active subscriptions. Trim the fat, and you can find an extra $50 a month sitting there.
Celebrate Small Wins
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Net worth isn’t built overnight, and it sure isn’t built with burnout. Celebrate hitting a savings milestone or staying within your budget. Treat yourself modestly when you hit those goals. Positive reinforcement works just as well on adults as it does on kids.