“Uncle, where do I start with money, please?” That’s what my friend’s daughter asked me last Sunday.
That’s what my neighbour’s daughter asked me last Sunday. She wasn’t being dramatic — she looked overwhelmed. You could tell she’d tried to fix things before and ended up right back where she started.
And really, her question wasn’t unusual — it was honest.
“Where Do I Start With Money?” — The Real Question
It’s not about income brackets. It’s not about having the perfect app. And it’s definitely not about becoming a spreadsheet wizard overnight.
It’s about that moment when you stop scrolling and say, “Enough. I want to change things.”
But the internet throws you 50 tabs and 500 opinions. That’s not clarity — that’s chaos in disguise.
So let’s keep it calm. Here’s what I told her, and what I’ll tell you: There’s power in starting simple. These three steps will hopefully help.
This article draws on insights from our team of financial educators, researchers, and real-world experts with decades of combined experience. Because you deserve guidance that’s been lived, not just Googled.
Step 1: Know Where Your Money Actually Goes
Most people don’t have a budgeting problem. They have a “don’t look too close” problem.
Before you plan, save, or invest, you’ve got to get honest.
Try this:
For 7 days, write down every pound you spend.
Don’t categorize, overthink, or judge it.
Use your notes app, a sticky pad, or even a voice memo.
Just track it. Raw and unfiltered. You’ll be surprised by how much you learn just by noticing.
One woman I spoke to realised she wasn’t “bad with money.” She just bought peace of mind with takeaways when work felt too heavy. Once she saw that clearly, change became easier..
And remember, awareness doesn’t mean judgment. If you see something surprising, good! That means you’re finally tuning in. Most people avoid looking because they’re afraid of what they’ll find. But truth brings choice. And choice brings freedom.
Asking where do I start with money can feel heavy, but often, it begins with simply being honest about what’s happening now.
Step 2: Set a Simple Vision — Not a Goal
Let’s swap pressure for purpose.
A goal says: “You need to save £2,000 in 3 months.” A vision says: “I want to stop panicking when I check my bank account.”
Write yours down. Keep it kind and real:
Feel calm at the end of the month
Spend with intention, not stress
Build a tiny buffer, even if it’s £50
You don’t need a 5-year plan. You just need a north star. You don’t have to share it with anyone. This is your personal money compass…something to come back to when the world feels noisy. You’re not chasing perfection, you’re building toward peace.
Step 3: Choose One Tool That Supports You
Don’t start with five. Start with one.
A no-frills budgeting app
A notepad where you track spending
A “money moment” every Sunday
Or a tool we’ve already reviewed for you
👉 If you’re stuck, a free budgeting consultation is a great place to begin. Or explore our Financial Planning section at topfinancialchoices.com — it’s like a toolkit curated by people who have been through it, not just read about it.
You Don’t Need Everything — You Need a Start
“You’re not behind. You’re just early in your plan.”
Forget trying to do it all at once. Forget comparing your journey to your friend’s Instagram highlight reel.
Still wondering where do I start with money? Focus on these three things:
✔ Notice where your money flows ✔ Choose a kind, personal money vision ✔ Pick one tool that moves you forward
That’s a real beginning. One that sticks.
Final Thought from Uncle Abundance
“Most people don’t fail with money because they’re lazy — they fail because no one ever showed them where to start.”
Start where you are. Stay gentle. Keep going. — Uncle Abundance
Until next time, Uncle Abundance P.S. Always here with the kettle on and a financial truth bomb or two.
