What are the pros and cons of saving?
Savings are the backbone of financial stability. But, trying to save too much too fast can make your finances inflexible and rigid. It can also be unsustainable and demotivating if you are unable to stick to your savings goals.
Much like running a marathon, pacing yourself is essential; it prevents muscles from seizing up, enabling you to maintain strength and endurance all the way to the finish line.
So, let’s dive into the pros and cons of saving and arm you with some top tips for deciding what’s the right amount to be saving for you.
Pros of saving
Financial security – One of the most significant perks of saving money is the security it provides. Having a nest egg tucked away can be a lifesaver in emergencies like unexpected bills, job loss, or sudden expenses.
Achieving goals – Saving allows you to work towards your dreams, whether it’s buying your first car, travelling the world, or starting your own business. Putting money aside regularly brings you closer to making those aspirations a reality.
Peace of mind – Knowing you have money set aside can ease stress and anxiety about the future. It gives you a sense of control over your finances and allows you to focus on other aspects of your life without constantly worrying about money.
Opportunities for investment – Building savings opens opportunities to invest in assets that have the potential to generate higher returns than the average savings account. From stocks and bonds to real estate and business ventures, investing your savings wisely can accelerate the growth of your savings. You can read our article on savings vs investing to learn more.
Preparation for retirement – It might be a long way off, but saving early and consistently for retirement can significantly impact your quality of life in later years. By contributing to work pension schemes or a private pension, you’re setting yourself up for a comfortable retirement.
Cons of saving
Increased budget stress – Putting aside savings reduces the money you have left to budget for spending. An overly tight spending budget can lead to stress, frustration and diminish the enjoyment of everyday life. Therefore, it’s important to refine a budget that allows for both saving and comfortable spending. You might find our tips on creating a budget article helpful.
Loss of potential social opportunities – Saving too much can sometimes lead to missing out on social opportunities that require spending, such as attending events, dining out with friends, or traveling. Overly frugal habits may strain relationships or result in feelings of isolation. While saving is important, it’s essential to strike a balance between saving and socialising.
Low returns – Depending on where you keep your savings, the interest rates may be relatively low. This means your money might not grow as quickly as you’d like, and inflation could erode its value over time.
Lack of financial flexibility – Some investments, such as real estate or certain retirement accounts, may have restrictions on access to funds or penalties for early withdrawal. While these investments can offer attractive returns over the long term, they may not be suitable for short-term financial needs or emergencies requiring immediate access to cash.
Psychological barrier to spending – Overemphasis on saving can sometimes create a psychological barrier to spending, leading to frugality or self-neglect. While saving is essential, it’s equally important to strike a balance and allow yourself to enjoy experiences that enhance your quality of life.
Three top tips for deciding how much to save
Set clear goals
Before you start saving, identify your short-term and long-term financial goals. Whether it’s building an emergency fund, saving for a holiday, or buying your first car, knowing what you’re saving for will help you determine how much to save and how quickly you need to reach your targets.
Track your spending
Keep tabs on where your money goes by tracking your expenses. There are budgeting apps that can help you categorise your spending and identify areas where you can cut back.
By understanding your spending habits and how much you spend on needs vs wants, you can make more informed decisions about the amount of monthly savings that is sustainable for your budget.
Review and adjust regularly
Life is full of changes, so it’s essential to regularly review and adjust your savings plan accordingly. Whether it’s getting a raise or moving to a new city, major life events can impact your financial goals and priorities. Take time to reassess your budget and savings strategy periodically to ensure they align with your current circumstances and aspirations.
For tips on how to start saving/keep it going, read our article.
While saving money requires discipline and sacrifice, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks – as long as the amount you’re saving is part of a realistic budget. By setting clear goals, tracking your spending, and taking the time to review and adjust your savings, you can save towards your goals at an effective rate that won’t do more harm than good to your wellbeing.
So, start saving today, even if it’s just a little each month, and build a secure financial future while still enjoying the present.
