Top personal finance mistakes people make in their 30s
Your 30s hit differently, don’t they? One minute you’re celebrating career wins and family milestones, and the next you’re suddenly aware that your financial choices actually matter long term. Or you’re suddenly aware of your personal finance mistakes.
As a Family Lifestyle Publisher and Soft Girl CEO who’s spent years juggling home life, budgeting, and building a digital business, I’ve seen how a few small money habits can shape your future in the best way… or quietly hold you back.
This is your gentle, judgement-free guide to the most common money mistakes people make in their 30s, and how to side-step them with confidence.
No pressure. No panic. Just clarity, calm, and smart choices, your future self will thank you for.
Overspending and lifestyle inflation
As income increases, it’s tempting to upgrade every aspect of your life, whether that’s a bigger house, a newer car, more expensive holidays, or dining out more often. This gradual rise in spending, known as lifestyle inflation, can easily consume any additional income and leave little room for saving or investing.
A sensible approach is to create a realistic budget that reflects both your needs and long-term goals. Setting aside a portion of your income for savings before spending on non-essentials can help you stay disciplined.
It’s also worth regularly reviewing your expenses to identify areas where you might be overspending without realising it. Additionally, long-term goals, such as buying a home or achieving financial independence, can make it easier to resist short-term temptations.
Charlotte Personal Finance Mistakes Tip: Before upgrading anything in your life, pause and ask yourself: “Will this genuinely improve my day-to-day… or does it just look good online?”
If it’s not adding real joy, comfort, or long-term value, it’s not worth the money. Redirect that extra cash into your savings or future goals. Your 40-year-old self will want to hug you.
Ignoring debt and credit management
Many people in their 30s are managing multiple debts, from credit cards and student loans to overdrafts and car finance. The problem arises not from having debt itself, but from neglecting it. Missing repayments, carrying high balances, or ignoring your credit score can all damage your financial standing. Poor credit management can make it more difficult to access future borrowing, including mortgages and personal loans.
When trying to purchase a new car, some people turn to bad credit car finance as a solution. While this can be an excellent short-term option, it may come with higher interest rates. However, by making consistent and timely payments, avoiding unnecessary borrowing, and monitoring your credit report, you can purchase a car on finance whilst staying financially healthy.
Charlotte Personal Finance Mistakes Tip: Treat your credit score like a tiny houseplant. Check on it often, water it (aka make your payments), and don’t let it suffer in silence. Set automatic payments for the minimum amount on every debt to avoid missed deadlines, then manually top up extra payments when you can. It protects your credit and keeps everything moving forward.
Failing to Save and Invest Early
One of the biggest regrets people express later in life is not starting to save or invest sooner. Your 30s are an ideal time to build financial stability, but many delay taking action, assuming there will be plenty of time later. The reality is that the earlier you begin, the more you benefit from compound interest.
Even modest monthly contributions to a pension, stocks and shares ISA, or emergency fund can make a significant difference over time. Building an emergency fund with three to six months of living expenses provides a financial cushion for unexpected costs. Meanwhile, regularly contributing to a workplace pension and taking advantage of employer contributions and tax relief can strengthen your long-term financial security.
Charlotte Personal Finance Mistakes Tip: Start small, but start now. Even £25–£50 a month into a pension or ISA is better than waiting for “the perfect time”. Because that time never arrives.
Automate your contributions so saving happens quietly in the background while you get on with life.
Before You Go
Your 30s don’t need to be stressful, they can be the decade where everything starts falling into place financially. Small changes, a bit of awareness, and a little consistency go a long way. Let this be your reminder that you’re not behind, you’re not late, and you’re absolutely capable of building a secure, spacious future on your own terms. I hope this helps with any personal finance mistakes pending, if any.
And if you loved this one, there’s plenty more cosy, calm personal growth inspo waiting for you on the blog.
With love, gratitude & soft girl CEO vibes.
