We’ve all made money mistakes, and I’m definitely no exception.
Let me share one of mine from my twenties, back when I was living in New York City and still figuring out adulthood, relationships, and money in real time.
At the time, I was dating someone who was struggling financially. He was behind on bills and eventually asked me to loan him thousands of dollars to help him get back on his feet. When he first asked, I hesitated. Something in my gut told me to slow down and think it through.
But instead of listening to that feeling, guilt took over. I didn’t want to seem unsupportive. I didn’t want to be “that girl.” And eventually, I said yes.
Here’s the part that matters most:
I didn’t tell anyone about the decision.
Not my friends.
Not my family.
Not even my parents.
Why? Because deep down, I knew it wasn’t a smart financial move, and I was embarrassed. I felt ashamed that I had ignored my better judgment, and I didn’t want anyone questioning my choice.
A few weeks later, the weight of it all finally caught up to me. I called my dad and explained what had happened. He listened quietly, then said something I still remember to this day:
“Sarah, why didn’t you talk to me before making this decision? I would have stopped you.”
He was right. And, spoiler alert: I was never repaid.
That experience taught me an expensive but invaluable lesson. One I wish I’d learned sooner.
If you feel the need to hide a financial decision from the people you trust and respect most, that means you’re making the wrong choice.
So let me ask you this:
Is there anything financial happening in your life right now that you’re avoiding talking about?
A credit card balance?
A purchase you regret?
A financial favor you agreed to out of pressure or guilt?
Here’s the truth: everyone makes money mistakes, especially in their twenties. What matters most isn’t avoiding every mistake, it’s learning how to recognize them early and knowing when to ask for help.
Talking openly with a trusted friend, family member, or mentor can help you gain perspective and prevent a small misstep from turning into a long-term setback.
If you’re looking to be more proactive about your finances and avoid some of the most common money mistakes young adults make, I created a free resource called “8 Money Mistakes to Fix in Your Twenties.” It breaks down common financial missteps, like not asking for guidance, ignoring debt, or avoiding money conversations, and offers simple, practical steps you can take right now.
You can download the free guide here:
https://www.moveher.money/moneymistakes
Consider this your nudge to take the next step…whether that’s starting a money conversation you’ve been avoiding or educating yourself so you can make more confident financial decisions moving forward.
Pushing past embarrassment or shame could end up being one of the best financial decisions you make this year.
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