A 3rd Decade Story · ImpactFool (IF) FundIt's not how much you make. It's how you manage it.
A recent college graduate learned that the habits she built in her twenties would shape her wealth for a lifetime.
When Abbie joined 3rd Decade, she was entering a new chapter of life. As a recent college graduate living on her own and beginning her professional career, she was navigating financial decisions independently for the first time.
"I was motivated to join 3rd Decade as a recent college graduate," Abbie shared. "It was the first time in my life that I was living alone and gaining full-time professional experience. So a lot of the lessons in 3rd Decade really resonated with me at that time."
Like many young adults, Abbie was looking for guidance on how to build a strong financial foundation. One lesson in particular has stayed with her long after completing the program.
3rd Decade's financial education taught me that no matter how much money I was or wasn't making in my 20s, the way I managed it would make me rich over a lifetime.Abbie
That mindset shift changed the way Abbie approached her financial future. Rather than focusing solely on income, she learned the importance of building healthy financial habits and making intentional decisions with her money.
Today, she feels empowered by the progress she's made.
"Thanks to 3rd Decade, I feel almost, because you can never be perfectly in control, but I feel almost completely in control of my financial future," she said. "And I'm really proud of the work that I've done to not only change my financial circumstances, but now be merging finances with my future husband, and I'm looking forward to the life that we're building together."
As she reflects on her experience, Abbie is quick to recognize the people who helped make it possible.
Everyone who works for 3rd Decade should know that you played a part in changing my life, and in my partner's life, and in my future children's lives. The ripple effect really knows no end.Abbie
She also carries with her a memorable piece of advice from her mentor that continues to guide her financial decisions.
For Abbie, 3rd Decade wasn't just about learning how to manage money. It was about gaining the confidence, knowledge, and support to build the future she wants, and creating a positive financial legacy that will extend far beyond herself.
Help the next young adult build a foundation like Abbie's.
Your gift to the Fool Community Foundation powers nonprofits like 3rd Decade, so more young adults can learn that the habits they build today shape the wealth of a lifetime.
