Why Financial Literacy Is Important For Youth in 2021

  • Updated on: 10 Apr 2023
  • Published on: 12 Aug 2021
Why Financial Literacy Is Important For Youth in 2021

Financial literacy is a fundamental life skill that has a direct impact on our well-being. The objective is to develop a sense of control over our finances while simultaneously using money as a tool to make decisions that lead to higher life happiness. 

When a person is financially literate, they understand how to allocate their money to several goals simultaneously—regular costs and savings, debt reduction, and an emergency fund. Taught early, fundamentals such as money management, savings, investment, and debt management build a solid basis for good financial habits. According to national studies, young individuals have among the lowest levels of financial literacy.  This is evident in their overall failure to select the appropriate financial products and, in many cases, a lack of enthusiasm in engaging in smart financial planning.

Youth is a period when unique and creative thoughts and ideas emerge, shaping the society and nation we live in. But are they adequately prepared with the tools necessary to influence the future? 

And what good can a young person who is sliding into debt owing to a lack of financial literacy do for the country’s growth? 

They seek opportunities to further their talents and contribute to their respective cultures. They want skills that will help them, such as financial literacy.

What is the significance of financial literacy?

A mostly youthful and working population can contribute to the economy and dictate the country’s growth points to a bright future. However, a quick survey on the floor will reveal that nearly every young person is concerned about money. It is well acknowledged that most young people are woefully unprepared to secure their current and future financial security. So, will they be able to prepare?

This is only feasible if young people are taught about saving, debt, taxation, and the foundations of banking, insurance, and debt management from a young age. Youngsters frequently learn about money through informal socializing, such as seeing and listening to their caretakers, important adults, and classmates. It is more important than ever before because the pandemic has taught everyone, not just the young, a lot about saving and money management in general, requiring them to reconsider their financial plan. In the year 2021, it is more vital than ever to be financially savvy.

Youth are not routinely exposed to more formal financial education. And, because our educational system lacks institutional frameworks, such as a classroom curriculum or other instruction on saving, spending, allowances, and the necessity of focusing on short-term goals to achieve long-term financial goals, it is critical to encourage it among them.

How can financial literacy help youths?

Without financial literacy, the actions and decisions one makes (or does not make) regarding savings and investments would be based on shaky ground. Financial literacy is a thorough understanding of the methods that are essential for financial growth and success.

  • Investing

Rather than letting money sit in a bank account, it might be invested in financial products. Millennials must understand – investing is all about creating and developing wealth so that you can live a secure and happy life. It’s all about investing in a strategy that will help you earn substantial profits over time.

  • Defending against debt and bankruptcy

Creating an emergency savings account that can help in a disaster is critical to avoid debt accumulation. To prevent bankruptcy, a financially savvy saver understands how much to save aside—ideally three to six months’ worth of expenses—and strives to preserve it at that level at all times. Of course, they should also know about emergency loans.

  • Savings 

Putting money aside provides financial stability, a secure present, and a bright future. Long-term wealth can be built via prudent financial planning. It is possible to save money by keeping track of one’s spending patterns.

  • Saving for retirement

Saving for retirement while achieving short-term objectives is a sign of financial literacy. It helps people figure out how much to save, what kind of retirement they want, and how to get there.

  • Paying off all debts  

Only those who are already in debt understand the agony of being trapped in debt. Financial literacy can assist young people in determining the most effective ways to get out of debt, whether on their own or with the assistance of a respected professional.

  • Understanding the cost of living

Making a budget is a crucial part of developing financial literacy since it allows you to have a genuine knowledge of your income and spending. Once a budget is established, it can be used to manage to spend and minimize needless expenditures. The actionable plan will assist in keeping track of costs, separating the unneeded ones, and ensuring that money is spent properly. In this manner, more money can be saved. When it comes to budgeting, the golden rule is that revenue must exceed spending.

Final thought

To make the best judgment in any life decision, being well-versed is a prerequisite. The youth should be able to believe that they will avoid spiraling into debt or making risky investments. Financial planning, budgeting, and saving should ideally be taught beginning in elementary school. It’s never too late to learn about it, though. Understanding the components of financial literacy can help one enhance their financial literacy. They can then set and work toward financial objectives that complement their vision for a happy life. Fibe wishes all of the young people a very happy youth day.

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