Hey Lykkers! Ever wonder if you're on the right track with your money?

Maybe you see friends buying houses while you're still paying off student loans, or colleagues talking about retirement funds when you're just trying to build your emergency savings.

Here's the truth: financial freedom isn't a one-size-fits-all journey, but there are key milestones that can guide each decade of your life. Think of this as your friendly roadmap to building wealth through every life stage!

Your 20s: The Foundation Years

This decade is all about building strong money habits. You might not have a lot to invest yet, but the habits you form now will pay off for decades.

Your Priority Checklist:

- Start an emergency fund (aim for 3-6 months of basic expenses)

- Learn to budget using apps or simple spreadsheets

- Begin retirement savings - even $50/month makes a difference

- Understand your debt and make a plan to pay it down

Why it matters: As financial expert Ramit Sethi explains, "The 85 Percent Solution: Getting started is more important than becoming an expert." (Source: "I Will Teach You to Be Rich")

Your 30s: The Acceleration Phase

Now's the time to ramp things up! You're likely earning more and might be thinking about bigger goals like home ownership or starting a family.

Your Priority Checklist:

- Increase retirement contributions to at least 15% of your income

- Consider home ownership if it aligns with your lifestyle

- Protect your future with proper insurance (life, disability)

- Start investing beyond retirement accounts

Pro tip: This is when compound interest really starts working its magic.

Your 40s: The Peak Earning Years

Welcome to your peak earning potential! This is crunch time for building wealth, but also when financial responsibilities might be at their highest.

Your Priority Checklist:

- Maximize retirement accounts and catch-up contributions

- Pay down mortgages and other debts

- Save for children's education (if applicable)

- Diversify your investments

Important note: Don't let lifestyle inflation eat your raises. As Suze Orman advises, "Live below your means but within your needs."

Your 50s: The Final Push

You can see the finish line! This decade is about fine-tuning your plans and making sure everything is in place for a comfortable retirement.

Your Priority Checklist:

- Take advantage of catch-up contributions in retirement accounts

- Pay off all debt including your mortgage

- Create a detailed retirement income plan

- Consider long-term care insurance

Crucial planning: This is when you should get specific about your retirement dreams.

The Golden Thread: Consistency is Key

Lykkers, remember that financial freedom isn't about being perfect—it's about being consistent. Every decade builds on the last, and it's never too late to start. If you're in your 40s and haven't saved much, focus on what you can do now rather than worrying about what you didn't do in your 20s.

The most important step is always the next one. What money goal are you working on right now? Share your current financial focus—let's learn from each other's journeys toward financial freedom.