Financial freedom or stability — what to choose in 2025

It's easy to dream of financial freedom. But getting there is more difficult. Where do you start on the path to money that works for you? Is it possible to live without fear of bills? And what is more important now — stability or investment? We answer these questions simply and to the point.

Stability is not a "minimum" but a foundation

Financial stability is when you don't panic when you receive an SMS from the bank. You have a steady income: salary, projects, and business. You have control — you know how much you spend and that the month ends with a plus. You have a cushion for at least 3-6 months of your life.

All of this is a base. Without it, even the most ambitious investor runs the risk of ending up with zero in their account and a credit card with interest.

A habit of keeping records, a reserve of funds, and protection — insurance, minimal debts, is what creates inner peace. And from this, a strategy grows.

Financial freedom is not a marathon, it's a ladder

Freedom is when passive income is several times higher than expenses. For example, you spend USD 2,000 and your capital brings in USD 6,000 every month. It can be real estate, the stock market, royalties, dividends. And you decide for yourself whether to work or not.

This state is the fifth stage out of five:

• Financial insecurity
• Stability
• Prosperity
• Independence
• Freedom

There is no way to jump over. But if you honestly define your position, a clear vector of movement emerges.

Starting point: where you are now and where you want to go

Start with a simple thing: do the maths. What is your income? What are your monthly expenses? How much is left over? Is there a reserve? Do you have debts? Do you have investments? And now, more importantly. What does financial freedom mean to you? Living on an island? To work once a week? To be calm about your children?

When you have an answer, you can formulate a strategy. If you are now at the level of stability, work on your cushion, optimise your expenses, and try your first investments. If you are already investing, but without a system, it's time to build one. Sometimes it is a financial adviser who helps you see how to take the next step.

What to do: one strategy does not work

The question is often asked: what is more effective — saving, earning more, or investing? In fact, it's all of the above. But it depends on the stage: at the start, it is important to learn how to control expenses; then to look for income growth points; and later to add investments as a new source of stability.

Balance is the key. No extremes. Without fear. And without putting things off "for later".

Financial freedom is not about millions. It is about choice. Start with stability, with clarity, with control. And then — step by step — create for yourself the standard of living that will allow you to be calm and free.