In partnership with Cherry Godfrey
We often think of financial success in connection with big life events, such as starting a business, making investments, or big career moves. But the truth is, many of the most powerful money habits are small, consistent, and often overlooked. They’re the everyday choices that give you peace of mind and quietly move you towards financial security.
From budgeting with intention to investing in your wellbeing, here are the financial habits that successful women swear by.
From cars to coffee, spending well doesn’t mean choosing the most luxurious brand or chasing every new trend. It means spending mindfully. Ask yourself: do I really need this? And if not, will buying it genuinely make me happy? Or will it just add financial stress to my life? When you make conscious choices with your money, you’re more likely to feel good about where it’s going.
Staying on top of your finances doesn’t have to be a chore. Successful women keep their budget in check by knowing exactly what’s coming in and going out each month. Fixed costs like rent and bills are easy to track, but once you start noticing how much you spend on things like socialising or impulse buys, you might be surprised. The goal isn’t to cut out all the fun, just to be aware. With a clearer picture, you can spot patterns, make tweaks, and feel more in control of your finances.
Successful women don’t just save. They save with purpose. Setting financial goals gives your money direction and meaning. Whether it’s a new car or a once-in-a-lifetime trip, having a clear goal helps you to stay focused and motivated. It’s all too easy to spend without thinking - we all do it! - but when you’re saving for something specific, you’re more likely to make intentional choices. And it can feel so rewarding to see your progress. It’s another habit that makes you feel more confident and in control of your money.
Life is unpredictable, and whilst successful women don’t fear the worst, they do plan ahead. Having an emergency savings fund or an insurance policy may not be the most exciting thing to do with your money, but it is one of the smartest financial moves you can make. Having a safety net offers peace of mind, helping you to stay calm and in control if something unexpected happens. It’s a habit that doesn’t always get the spotlight, but it quietly supports every other part of your financial life.
There’s a shift in how people are choosing to live life, with more of us choosing to spend our money on experiences rather than buying more ‘stuff’. Whether that’s a day trip, a dream holiday or a life sabbatical, the memories can last a lifetime. Depending on the type of trip you have in mind, it may take some financial planning. But taking time out can give you a chance to reflect and grow as a person. It can also help to protect you against burnout, so that when you return to work you’ll feel recharged and ready to embrace the challenges, old and new, that are part of your everyday life. It’s time, and money, well spent.
Spending money that helps you take control of your health, both physically and emotionally, is money well spent, and it’s something we should invest in every day. Whether that means signing up for a yoga class, choosing better quality food, or buying - and using! - a gym membership, spending money that supports your wellbeing is never wasted. It’s the same when it comes to investing in health insurance. It can give you peace of mind, quicker access to treatment, and more options if you need care. Think of it as proactive spending. You’re not just reacting to illness, you’re nurturing and investing in your future self.
What all of these habits show is that, at the end of the day, successful women prioritise their financial wellness. It isn’t about the size of your bank balance or having the biggest salary. It’s about being intentional with your money and making financial decisions that will give you freedom and security. Money can be a source of anxiety for many, but when you take control of your finances, even in small ways, you reduce your stress levels, feel more confident and enjoy more freedom in your life. Think of it as self care for your future. Financial health supports every other kind of health, and you are worth investing in.