Pay Yourself First : The Golden Rule of Saving Money Without Stress

What’s the first thing you do when you get your paycheck? If you’re like most of the people, it goes straight to rent, bills, groceries and then whatever’s left (if anything) might go into savings. But what if you flipped it around?

The “Pay Yourself First” method is one of the easiest, most effective ways to build savings and take control of your financial future.

What Does It Mean to Pay Yourself First? Instead of saving what’s left after spending, you set aside a portion of your income before anything else. That means the very first transaction you make after getting paid is a transfer to your savings, investment, or future-you fund.

Why It Works So Well

💡 Makes saving a priority, not an afterthought 💡 Builds the habit without relying on willpower 💡 Helps you live within your means 💡 Creates a financial safety net without stress

When you treat saving like a non-negotiable expense (just like rent or your phone bill), it becomes automatic and consistent.

How to Start Paying Yourself First

1. Pick a % of your income. Start with 1–10%. As you adjust, you can increase it. Even €20 from each paycheck adds up.

2. Automate it. Set up a recurring transfer from your main account to your savings on payday. Tools like Get Bill let you link accounts and track this effortlessly.

3. Create specific goals. Want to save for travel, a rainy-day fund, or new tech? Break savings into categories so it feels real and motivating.

4. Don’t touch it. This is money for your future self. Let it grow. Over time, you’ll be surprised how much you've built up.

   
   

A Mindset Shift That Changes Everything. “Paying yourself first” isn’t just a tactic, it’s a mindset. It’s about valuing your future security as much as your present comfort. The sooner you start, the easier it gets. And the less likely you’ll be caught off guard by unexpected expenses.

Every euro you save is a step toward financial freedom. By paying yourself first, you make sure saving becomes second nature and not a stressful chore.

💸 Want to make it even easier? Let Get Bill help you set up savings goals, track your progress, and automate your finances in just a few taps.