For as long as money has existed, people have had thoughts and opinions about it. And while not everyone will agree about the best ways to earn, save and spend money, many wise people have weighed in with their thoughts on money over the years. Here are several quotes about saving money that resonate with us — whether they were spoken recently or hundreds of years ago.
Do not save what is left after spending, but spend what is left after saving. – Warren Buffett
When the fourth wealthiest person in the world talks about money, it makes sense to listen. Known for living simply despite his means, we couldn’t agree more with this bit of advice from Warren Buffett. If you don’t make putting money away for the future a priority, you’ll never get around to doing it. And when you need it, it won’t be there. Starting and sticking to a savings plan is something you’ll never regret.
The price of anything is the amount of life you exchange for it. – Henry David Thoreau
A 19th century American philosopher, poet and academic, Thoreau wore many hats. An advocate of living simply, this quote speaks to his suspicion of focusing too much on worldly possessions. His words still ring true today. Spending a lot of mental energy on worrying about what you (or others) have or don’t have is exhausting. Instead, focus on what matters most to you whether that’s family, friends or your future.
He who buys what he does not need, steals from himself. – Swedish Proverb
While we don’t know who first said it or exactly when, this is one of our favorites, because it speaks directly to learning the difference between wants and needs. Of course, there are times everyone buys things simply because they want them, and that’s OK. It’s when it becomes a way of life that it puts your financial future in jeopardy. Speaking from experience, thinking of this proverb any time you’re about to make an impulse purchase can be a game changer.
Never spend your money before you have it. – Thomas Jefferson
This founding father was onto something when he dropped these wise words. While credit cards didn’t exist in Jefferson’s time, it was still very possible to go into debt. And the inability to pay that debt had heavy consequences, including debtor’s prison. Then and now, spending money you don’t have is never a good idea. If you can’t pay cash for something, save up for it until you can.
You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step. – Martin Luther King, Jr.
While this quote isn’t about money, per se, it is about taking positive steps to make changes, and that’s what we’re all about. If your finances aren’t where you’d like them to be, now is the time to start making changes. Our free online financial review is the perfect place to start. You’ll receive a free personalized budget and recommendations for the best way to get out of credit card debt.