- It isn't all yours. Meet your Uncle Sam. You're right, he is creepy.
- Start your 401k ASAP.
- Don't spend over 30% of your take home pay on housing. Get a roommate if you have to.
- Your friend that appears to be "doing the best” isn't. Don't be like him.
- You need a savings account that you don't touch with at least one month's expenses.
- Don't go out and buy a new car right away. Many people do it. Many people are wrong.
- Don't cash a paycheck. Never a good idea for a 23 year old (read: anyone) to carry around a few hundred dollars.
- Buy your parents something nice for the first Mother's Day or Father's Day while you are employed. It's the right thing to do.
- Don't listen to the guy trying to sell you the engagement ring. He isn't your accountant, financial planner, or friend. 3 months my left foot!
- Don't be in a hurry to accumulate all the things that you have ever wanted. I am guessing that you never have wanted to get kicked out of your apartment because you can't pay rent.
