How to Become A Rich Girl: 20 Money Goals For Your 20s

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Welcome to your Rich Girl Era—where we’re not just dreaming about luxury and freedom, we’re building it. One smart move at a time.

I remember when I started my online entrepreneurship journey back in 2020. The very first non-fiction book I read was Rich Dad Poor Dad—and it completely changed my life. That book flipped the way I looked at money, and honestly? It was never the same again. I started seeing money not just as something to earn and spend, but something to grow, multiply, and protect.

Of course, the journey hasn’t been perfect. I made a ton of mistakes. I thought success meant launching five different side hustles at once. I was chasing “multiple streams of income” without really building a foundation. It wasn’t sustainable—and I eventually quit in 2023.

But 2025? I’m back. I’m restarting this journey with focus, clarity, and purpose. This time, I’m giving my all to becoming the rich woman of my dreams. Not just rich in money, but rich in freedom, options, and peace of mind.

Here’s the truth: it’s so important for women to have their own money. Not because we’re materialistic, but because money gives you choices. It gives you power. It protects you when things go wrong. And most importantly—it builds a life on your terms.

So if you’re in your 20s and wondering how to be smart with money, start here. This is the decade to experiment, make mistakes, learn fast, and most importantly—build intentionally. You have nothing to lose and everything to gain. Let’s talk money and goals, the mindset behind building wealth, and 20 must-do financial goals for your 20s to become the rich girl you were meant to be.

What Are Money Goals? (Spoiler: Not All Financial Goals Are Boring)

When you hear the phrase financial goals, you might immediately think of spreadsheets, budgeting apps, and giving up your daily iced coffee. Yawn, right?

But here’s the truth: not all financial goals are boring goals. In fact, some of them are about securing the soft life you’ve always dreamed of—designer bags, freedom to travel, spa days on a random Tuesday, and the peace of knowing your bills are on autopilot. That’s the real power of financial planning—it’s not just about restriction, it’s about intention.

Money goals are simply personal milestones you set to help you manage your income, grow your savings, build wealth, and create security. They can be short-term, like saving for your first solo trip, or long-term, like buying your dream home or retiring early.

They’re the building blocks of wealth management, even if you’re just starting out. And here’s the empowering part: you don’t need to have six figures in the bank to start thinking like a rich girl. You just need a plan, a vision, and a little bit of discipline.

So whether your goals include paying off student loans, buying your first luxury purchase guilt-free, or funding your future business, remember this: your money goals should feel aligned—not overwhelming. They should serve the rich woman you’re becoming, not just the bills you’re paying today.

Why Should You Set Financial Goals?

Because winging it with money is not a strategy—it’s a setup for a financial disaster.

Setting financial goals gives your life direction. It’s the difference between drifting and driving—between reacting to money problems and actually being in control. When you have goals for your money, you’re not just spending aimlessly—you’re moving with purpose, intention, and confidence.

One of the biggest reasons to set money goals? Peace of mind.

Sudden expenses won’t shake you when you’ve already built a cushion. Whether it’s an unexpected car repair, a last-minute flight home, or an emergency vet bill—your financial plan becomes your security blanket. You’ll sleep better at night knowing you’re prepared, not panicked.

Financial goals also help you say yes to the right things and no to what doesn’t serve your future. Whether it’s saving for a vacation or putting 10% of your income into investments, goals keep you grounded and help you make smarter decisions with your money.

And let’s be real—it’s not just about the numbers. It’s about feeling safe, supported, and free. When you have a plan for your money, you move through life with a quiet kind of confidence that you’ve got this—because you do.

Why Is It Important for Women to Have Their Own Money?

Let’s be clear: the most powerful thing a woman with money has is choices.

Choices to walk away from toxic jobs, bad relationships, or anything that doesn’t serve her.

Choices to live life on her own terms.

Choices to buy what she wants without asking for permission or feeling guilty.

When a woman has her own money, she holds the pen to her life story. It’s not just about paying the bills—it’s about building a life filled with freedom, security, and self-respect. It’s about knowing that no matter what happens, you’ve got you.

This is why financial independence isn’t optional—it’s essential. We’ve been taught to be polite, to downplay our desire for wealth, to settle for “enough”—but rich girls know better. Wealth isn’t selfish. It’s smart. It’s safety. It’s self-love.

Having your own money means you don’t have to stay stuck. You get to dream bigger, live louder, and move through life with power and peace. Because nothing hits harder than being able to say: “I can afford to leave. I can afford to stay. I can afford to choose.”

20 Achievable Financial Goals For Women In Their 20s

1. Become Financially Smart

Becoming a rich girl starts with becoming a smart girl—especially when it comes to money.

You don’t need a finance degree or a $997 course to start learning how to manage your money like a boss. What you do need is curiosity, consistency, and a willingness to educate yourself.

Start by learning as much as you can about money: how it works, how it grows, and how to keep it. Familiarize yourself with the basics—terms like net worth, interest rates, inflation, assets, liabilities, and compound interest. These might sound boring now, but trust me, understanding them will change how you approach every dollar.

The best part? You don’t have to spend a dime to get started. There are tons of free resources out there—from personal finance blogs and YouTube channels to podcasts hosted by financially empowered women who’ve been where you are.

Some days you’ll feel overwhelmed, and that’s okay. Just keep showing up for your financial growth. Even 10 minutes a day of intentional learning can build massive money confidence over time.

Remember: your bank account will always reflect what you know about money. So the smarter you get, the richer you grow.

2. Pay Down Debt

If there’s one thing that will keep you up at night, it’s debt. And trust me—I’ve been there.

When I was paying mine off, it was hands down one of the most stressful times of my life. I felt like I was working so hard just to watch my money disappear into interest payments. Every time I got paid, I barely had room to breathe. And honestly? That was an expensive lesson to learn.

So take it from me—just get this off your stress ASAP. Debt weighs on you emotionally, mentally, and financially. The faster you clear it, the faster you can focus on building real wealth.

Start with the basics: cover your essential expenses first, and then throw every extra cent toward your debt. Whether it’s student loans, credit cards, or personal loans—tackle them with laser focus.

Since paying mine off, I’ve made a vow: never again. I stay away from debt unless it’s something that adds real value (like an appreciating asset). Financial freedom tastes too good to go back.

3. Build Good Financial Habits

If you want a rich girl life, it starts with rich girl habits.

That means letting go of the broke girl habits that keep you stuck—like impulsive spending, ignoring your bank balance, or saying “I’ll start saving next month” (every month). These patterns might feel normal, but they’re quietly draining your future wealth.

Rich girl habits are small, consistent actions that add up to big financial wins over time. Things like:

Checking your accounts weekly
Automating your savings
Planning your spending ahead of time
Saying “no” to things that don’t fit your bigger money vision
Living below your means without depriving yourself

Good money habits aren’t about restriction—they’re about alignment. Every decision you make with intention brings you one step closer to your financial glow-up. The goal isn’t just to look rich—it’s to be rich, from the inside out.

So take stock of your current habits. Which ones are keeping you stuck? Which ones are helping you grow? Replace what no longer serves you with rituals that move the needle—and do it without apology.

Your bank account will always mirror your daily choices. Make them count.

4. Stick to Your Budget

If you’re serious about your financial goals for your 20s, mastering your financial budget is a must. But let’s keep it real—sticking to a budget can be challenging. Life happens, plans change, and sometimes you just want to treat yourself without guilt.

So here’s the thing: give yourself grace if you’re struggling to stick to your budget. You’re human. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s progress.

Think of your budget as a living document—one you can keep adjusting and tweaking to better fit your lifestyle and goals. Maybe you overspent on dining out this month but saved on transportation. That’s okay. Use that info to make smarter choices next time.

If you’re feeling lost or overwhelmed, there’s tons of budgeting help available—apps, templates, blogs, and videos that make budgeting simple and even fun. Find the tools that work for you and make it part of your routine.

Remember, a budget isn’t about restricting your freedom—it’s about giving you freedom with your money. The more intentional you get with your spending, the faster you’ll build the rich girl life you want.

5. Track Your Spending

The best way to take control of your money is to see exactly where it goes. You can’t fix what you don’t measure, right?

Tracking your spending helps you answer the crucial question: Are you spending wisely? Maybe you think you’re saving, but those daily coffee runs or late-night online shopping sprees might be quietly eating away at your budget.

By logging your expenses—whether through an app, spreadsheet, or even a simple notebook—you gain clarity on your habits. You’ll spot patterns, find leaks in your budget, and make smarter choices without feeling deprived.

Tracking isn’t about judgment. It’s about awareness and power. The more you know about your spending, the better you can align your money with your goals—and that’s how you start building true wealth.

6. Build Your Emergency Fund

After paying off my debt, building an emergency fund was my next financial goal—and honestly, it’s a game changer.

Every cent of money left over after covering my basic necessities went straight into that fund. Why? Because I never want to feel financially unsecured again. Having a cash cushion means when life throws a curveball—like unexpected medical bills, car repairs, or job loss—I’m not scrambling or stressing.

An emergency fund is your financial safety net. Experts usually recommend saving 3 to 6 months’ worth of living expenses. It might feel like a big number now, but start small. Even $500 set aside is better than nothing.

Building this fund gives you peace of mind, freedom, and most importantly—confidence to keep moving forward in your rich girl era without fear.

7. Build a Good Credit Score

When it comes to credit, there’s a lot of misinformation floating around—and one myth is that credit cards are all bad. That’s simply not true.

Building a good credit score is one of the smartest financial moves you can make in your 20s. A strong credit score opens doors to better loan rates, higher credit limits, and even better job opportunities in some cases.

Use credit cards wisely: pay your balance in full every month, avoid carrying debt, and keep your credit utilization low. This shows lenders you’re responsible and trustworthy.

Remember, credit is a tool—not a trap. When managed well, it can help you buy your first car, put a down payment on a home, and even boost your financial credibility.

Start building your credit today and watch how it supports your journey to becoming a rich woman.

8. Look for a Good Health Insurance Plan

Let’s talk about something that isn’t flashy but is absolutely essential: health insurance.

In your 20s, it’s easy to feel invincible—but unexpected medical bills can wipe out your savings real fast. One emergency room visit without insurance can cost thousands. That’s not just inconvenient—it’s financially devastating.

Having a good health insurance plan is a major part of wealth protection. It’s not just about doctor visits—it’s your shield against the “what ifs.” Whether you’re still on your parents’ plan, using your job benefits, or looking into independent options, make sure your coverage actually works for your needs.

Do your research. Compare deductibles, monthly premiums, and out-of-pocket maxes. It might not be the most exciting part of your financial planning, but it’s a non-negotiable step in your rich girl journey.

Protect your health. Protect your wealth.

9. Start Investing

If you want to build real, lasting wealth, investing is non-negotiable. Saving money is great—but investing is how you make your money grow.

One of the most powerful tools you have on your side in your 20s is compound interest. It’s basically money making money for you—over time, your investments grow not just from your contributions, but from the interest earned on your contributions and the interest on that interest. That’s how you build serious wealth with even small amounts.

I get it—investing can feel overwhelming at first. I’m a beginner too, and I’m learning as I go. That’s why my plan is simple: start small and get educated. I’m investing tiny amounts into low-risk options while taking the time to read, watch videos, and get familiar with how everything works before taking bigger risks.

You don’t need to be an expert to get started—you just need to start. Let time and consistency do the heavy lifting.

10. Increase Your 9-5 Income

Babe, your 9-5 income is not something to sleep on—in fact, it’s the best tool you have to start building your dream life.

While side hustles and passive income get all the hype, don’t underestimate the power of your full-time job. It’s your most stable and consistent income source right now, and maximizing it can fast-track your financial goals.

Ask for that raise. Apply for promotions. Negotiate your worth. Or level up your skills through free or low-cost courses to open doors to higher-paying opportunities.

Use your 9-5 paycheck to fund your emergency savings, invest regularly, or seed your future business ideas. It’s not just a job—it’s the financial fuel behind your rich girl lifestyle.

Before you try to multiply your income streams, make sure your main stream is flowing strong.

11. Build a New Income Stream Each Year

Your 20s are truly your playground when it comes to taking risks and testing what works. You’ve got energy, time, and flexibility on your side—so use it.

This is the perfect decade to experiment, try new things, and build multiple streams of income—one step at a time. And no, you don’t have to do it all at once (trust me, I tried that and learned the hard way). Instead, aim to build one new income stream every year.

Here’s what my own plan looks like:

At 23: Landed my dream job with my dream salary
At 24 (my current age): Started my side hustle—this very blog
At 25: Add more income streams to the blog + focus on learning more about investing and building dividend income
At 26 & 27: Add more income streams to the blog + improve investing strategies
At 28: Start a “boring” business (you know, the kind that quietly prints cash)
At 29: Save for a rental property

No income stream is too small to start. Whether it’s a blog, digital products, dividend stocks, or a brick-and-mortar hustle—start where you are with what you have.

The goal? By 30, you’re not just relying on one paycheck. You’ve got options. And that, rich girl, is where the real freedom begins.

12. Invest in Yourself

Saving money doesn’t mean your life has to be boring or dull. Yes, it does require cutting back on some expenses, but that doesn’t mean your happiness—or your glow—has to be sacrificed.

Investing in yourself is one of the smartest moves you can make on your journey to becoming a rich woman. This means continuing to pour into your looks, intelligence, and overall happiness.

Take courses often to upgrade your skills and knowledge. Read books, listen to podcasts, attend workshops—whatever helps you grow and level up. Remember, the road to becoming the woman of your dreams is a journey, not a sprint.

When you invest in yourself, you’re not just building your bank account—you’re building your confidence, your worth, and your ability to attract more opportunities.

Treat yourself like the asset you are.

13. Invest in Jewelry or Collect Wealth

Who says money can’t be fun? For me, one of the most enjoyable ways to build wealth is through investing in jewelry or commodities that increase in value over time.

This is my personal version of wealth collection—but it doesn’t have to be the same for everyone. Some women collect paintings, others invest in designer shoes, bags, or high-end fashion couture. The key is to find what you love that also holds or grows its value over time.

This isn’t about splurging or lifestyle inflation. It’s about buying wisely—choosing pieces that appreciate or at least maintain their worth. Over time, your collection can become a valuable asset, something you can pass down or sell when the time is right.

Turning your passion into an investment makes building wealth feel less like a chore and more like a hobby—and that’s how you keep your rich girl lifestyle exciting.

14. Avoid Lifestyle Creep

As your income grows, it’s tempting to upgrade everything—new gadgets, fancier clothes, bigger rent. But beware of lifestyle creep—the sneaky habit of letting your expenses rise as your earnings do.

Don’t sabotage your progress by falling into this trap. Instead, build financial discipline. Be disciplined enough to avoid overspending just because you can.

Remember, true wealth isn’t about flashing your cash—it’s about making your money work for you. Keeping your lifestyle in check means more money saved, invested, and growing for your future self.

15. Do a 1-Month No Spend Challenge Once a Year

Think of this like fasting for your money—a way to reset your spending habits and give your finances a much-needed break.

Doing a no spend challenge for just one month each year helps you become more mindful about where your money is going. It forces you to distinguish between wants and needs, and it can help you break those sneaky spending habits that drain your budget.

Plus, it’s a powerful way to boost your savings quickly, which you can then redirect toward your financial goals.

Challenge yourself, and watch how much stronger your relationship with money becomes.

16. Buy a Home or Save for a Downpayment

Owning a home is a major milestone—and for many, it’s the ultimate symbol of financial independence and success.

If buying a home outright isn’t in the cards yet, focus on saving for a downpayment. This goal forces you to build disciplined savings habits and prepares you for one of the biggest investments of your life.

Homeownership can build equity and long-term wealth, providing you with stability and a place to truly call your own.

Start early, stay consistent, and watch how this goal transforms your financial future and your rich girl era.

17. Save for Retirement

It might feel way off in the future, but starting to save for retirement as early as you can is one of the smartest financial moves you’ll make in your 20s.

Thanks to the magic of compound interest, even small contributions now can grow into a significant nest egg over time. The earlier you start, the more time your money has to work for you.

Think of retirement savings as a gift to your future self—a way to ensure you have financial freedom and peace of mind when you’re ready to relax and enjoy life on your terms.

So don’t wait. Open a retirement account, contribute regularly, and let time be your greatest ally in building lasting wealth.

18. Invest in Real Estate

Nothing screams wealth louder than real estate.

Investing in property is one of the most powerful ways to build lasting financial security and diversify your income streams. Whether it’s buying a rental property, flipping houses, or investing in real estate funds, this asset class can generate passive income and appreciate over time.

Real estate offers both cash flow and equity growth, making it a cornerstone of many rich women’s portfolios. While it may require a larger upfront investment, the long-term rewards can be life-changing.

Start learning about the market, save diligently, and prepare to add this powerhouse to your rich girl financial goals.

19. Save for Your Kids’ College

I don’t have kids yet, but I’ve seen firsthand how much my parents prioritized our education. They made sure to invest in our future by paying for good schooling, no matter what.

In many Asian cultures, it’s deeply rooted that good education is everything for a financially secure future. Now that I’m working and managing my own finances, I truly get it.

I want my kids to experience the same level of education my parents provided me—or even better.

Even if kids aren’t in your near future, starting to save early for their college fund (or future family’s education) can relieve a huge financial burden down the line—and keep your rich girl goals intact.

Education is an investment that pays dividends for generations.

20. Build an Inheritance

Building wealth isn’t just about you—it’s about taking care of your family for generations to come.

An inheritance is a powerful way to create a lasting legacy, whether it’s passing down money, property, or other valuable assets. It ensures that your hard work benefits not only you but also your children, grandchildren, and beyond.

Start thinking about estate planning, wills, and investments that can grow over time. This is the ultimate rich girl move—building financial freedom that lasts long after you’re gone.

Create wealth that transcends your lifetime.

How to Become A Rich Girl: 20 Money Goals For Your 20s