Money Milestones

Confused cartoon cat in glasses with a question mark above its head, illustrating common money mistakes in your 20s.

What I got wrong about money in my 20s

ByMike May 14, 2025May 14, 2025

Discover the key financial mistakes I made in my 20s and the lessons I learned from them. From missing out on early investing and workplace pensions to skipping pay negotiations and soft skill development, learn how to avoid these common errors and build a stronger financial future.

Cover of the book Die With Zero by Bill Perkins alongside an illustration of a cat wearing glasses and reading a book, with the text “Money Milestones Book reviews” beneath it.

Reviews

Die with Zero by Bill Perkins: An honest review

ByMike May 5, 2025May 5, 2025

An honest review of Die with Zero by Bill Perkins. I break down its key ideas, highlight what it gets right like health and conscious living, and explain why it is too long, overly simplistic, and potentially risky advice for most people. Read this before you buy the book.

Cartoon cat enjoying early retirement on a beach with a cocktail, symbolising how to retire early and enjoy financial freedom.

FIRE

How to retire early: 4 strategies to reach financial freedom

ByMike May 3, 2025May 5, 2025

Explore different paths to early retirement with our guide to FIRE, from Regular FIRE to Lean, Fat, and Barista FIRE. Learn how savings rates, income levels, and lifestyle choices affect your journey to financial independence. Start planning your future today with our step-by-step approach.

Saving

The ultimate emergency fund guide

ByMike April 24, 2025April 28, 2025

This emergency fund guide explains why having an emergency fund is essential, how much money you should aim to save, and the best places to keep it. You’ll also learn how to avoid common mistakes that can reduce its effectiveness, and discover practical tips for building your emergency fund step by step.

Cats wearing business suits in an office setting, representing salary negotiation and professional discussions.

Earning

How to negotiate a pay rise in your current job: A step-by-step guide

ByMike April 16, 2025April 28, 2025

Want to negotiate a raise without changing roles? Learn how to make a compelling case for a salary increase in your current position with actionable steps and strategies that will help you impress your manager and secure the pay you deserve.

FIRE

How to retire early: A realistic guide to Financial Independence

ByMike April 9, 2025May 5, 2025

A realistic guide to FIRE: how to retire early through saving, investing, and smart planning, without sacrificing the life you enjoy.

A cat looking at a screen displaying fluctuating stock market graphs, representing the question: should I save or invest?

Saving | Investing

Should I save or invest? The key to making the right choice

ByMike April 3, 2025April 28, 2025

Should you save or invest? This guide breaks down the key differences, risks, and rewards to help you make informed financial decisions. Learn how time and risk tolerance impact your choice, with a real-life investing story to illustrate the stakes.

Cover of The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel, featuring the title in bold typography and an illustration of a brain made of bills. © Morgan Housel, published by Harriman House.

Investing | Reviews

The Psychology of Money review: will it make you a better investor?

ByMike March 29, 2025May 5, 2025

Can mastering your mindset make you a better investor? The Psychology of Money says yes, but does it really deliver? Find out in my full review!

An image of an elderly cat using a cane, surrounded by banknotes. This illustration symbolises ageing and financial security, tying into the theme of opting out of workplace pension schemes: a decision that can have a lasting impact on retirement savings.

Investing | Earning

Opting out of your workplace pension: smart move or costly mistake?

ByMike March 23, 2025April 28, 2025

If you’re 22–66, earn £10K+, your employer must enrol you in a pension. But should you opt out? Here’s what you need to know.

Investing

How do I invest in gold in the UK?

ByMike March 17, 2025April 28, 2025

Interested in learning how to invest in gold? This comprehensive guide covers the different methods of gold investment, including physical gold, gold ETCs, and more, giving you the tools to make smart financial decisions.