If you’ve ever thought, “I’ll never get ahead financially” or “I’m just not good with money,” you might be putting up roadblocks where there could be open doors. Your financial future isn’t set in stone—it’s shaped by how you think and what you do. That’s where a growth mindset comes in.

A growth mindset is the belief that abilities and intelligence can be developed with effort, learning, and persistence. When applied to finances, it means realizing that financial literacy, smart money habits, and wealth-building strategies aren’t reserved for the lucky few—they’re skills that anyone can learn.

I know it’s easy to feel overwhelmed when facing financial hurdles. I’ve been there!  But a growth mindset helps you see these moments as stepping stones rather than roadblocks. If you’re struggling with debt, saving, or investing, try shifting your perspective. Instead of thinking, “I’m bad at managing money,” ask yourself, “How can I better manage my money?” Every challenge you face is a chance to build stronger financial skills.

We’ve all made financial missteps—whether it’s overspending, missing a payment, or making a risky investment. Instead of beating yourself up, take a step back and look at the lesson in the experience. Successful people don’t avoid mistakes; they learn from them. Each setback is an opportunity to refine your approach and make better decisions moving forward.

One simple word can change your entire financial outlook: yet. If you catch yourself saying, “I don’t understand investing” or “I can’t save money,” add yet to the end of that sentence. It turns a dead-end statement into an open path. Acknowledging that financial success is a journey keeps you motivated and patient with yourself.

It’s tempting to stick with what feels easy, but real financial progress comes from learning and stepping outside your comfort zone. Read books, listen to podcasts, take a financial course, or talk to a coach. The more you expose yourself to new financial concepts, the more confident and capable you’ll become. Knowledge is power—and in this case, it’s the power to take control of your financial future.

A growth mindset isn’t just about tackling big challenges; it’s also about recognizing progress. Did you save an extra $50 this month? That’s a win! Did you finally create a budget? Another win! Acknowledging and celebrating these small victories keeps you motivated and reinforces your belief that financial success is possible.

Changing the way you think about money starts with small steps. Reframe negative thoughts, seek out financial education, surround yourself with people who inspire you, and take consistent action. Whether it’s budgeting, saving, or investing, the key is to keep going.

By creating a growth mindset, you open the door to endless financial possibilities. Your starting point doesn’t define you—your willingness to learn, adapt, and persist does. Shift your mindset, take action, and watch your financial future transform!