Suze Orman Says To Follow These 3 Financial Rules of Thumb

'Night of Comedy' event in New York, America - 05 Nov 2014
Erik Pendzich / Shutterstock.com

Commitment to Our Readers

GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.

20 Years
Helping You Live Richer

Reviewed
by Experts

Trusted by
Millions of Readers

There’s no shortage of money advice out there, but the key to financial success really comes down to just three things, Suze Orman, money expert and co-founder of emergency savings startup SecureSave, told GOBankingRates.

“If you could do these three things, I promise you, your life will change,” she said.

Here’s a look at what Orman says are the financial rules everyone should follow.

Live Below Your Means

Spending less than you make is one financial rule of thumb everyone needs to follow, Orman said.

“I don’t care how much money you make or have,” she said. “Every single person should live below their means but within their needs. [For example], just because you can afford a new car doesn’t mean that you should get a new car.”

Eliminate Spending on ‘Wants’ Until You Are Financially Secure

While it may not be “fun” to only spend money on things you actually need, Orman said this is essential in order to build savings and financial security.

“Only buy needs versus wants,” she said. “Now, obviously, if you’re seriously wealthy [you can spend on wants], but those people who don’t have money, who need to save [money] need to change their behavior.”

Today's Top Offers

Find the Joy in Saving

It’s natural to enjoy spending money, but Orman said you need to equally enjoy saving money.

“Get as much pleasure out of saving as you do spending,” she said.

You should find joy in watching your savings grow over time, knowing that you’re making moves that will help you in both the long and short term.

BEFORE YOU GO

See Today's Best
Banking Offers

Looks like you're using an adblocker

Please disable your adblocker to enjoy the optimal web experience and access the quality content you appreciate from GOBankingRates.

  • AdBlock / uBlock / Brave
    1. Click the ad blocker extension icon to the right of the address bar
    2. Disable on this site
    3. Refresh the page
  • Firefox / Edge / DuckDuckGo
    1. Click on the icon to the left of the address bar
    2. Disable Tracking Protection
    3. Refresh the page
  • Ghostery
    1. Click the blue ghost icon to the right of the address bar
    2. Disable Ad-Blocking, Anti-Tracking, and Never-Consent
    3. Refresh the page