Money is one of the most important things that you need to get a handle on in your life.
Some people are naturally good at money and others might need a bit of help to put everything in order.
With that in mind, here are three ways you could help a friend with their financial life:
Help make a budget
One of the most daunting things about money is making a budget. Some people just find it overwhelming or don't know how to approach it.
A budget is just a simple roadmap of where you're sending your money. You don't have to think of it in terms of 'limiting' one's self, it can in-fact be the way to make sure you have a good time.
Seeing where the money is going can be a good way to think about what you actually (financially) care about.
If your budget has a bit of wriggle room beyond the basics you can actually plan to spend a bit of money on fun experiences or luxury to treat yourself.
There are dozens of different ways to plan a budget, whether it's handwritten on paper, on Microsoft Excel or one of the many online options. You could use the budgeting tools offered by your bank such as Commonwealth Bank of Australia (ASX: CBA).
Help with their CV
One of the most important aspects of someone's finances is how much money is coming in through the door. Having a job and getting a good income is important for everything else to fall into place.
Is your friend 'selling' themselves as good as they can? Have they listed all the relevant qualifications and experience that is relevant for the job they're applying for?
I'm not an employment expert, but having a second pair of eyes to look over the CV could be useful. There is plenty of competition for jobs, so a CV has to stand out as much as possible.
Be their goal buddy
Money can be like fitness – it's great if you can get into a routine with it but it might be useful to be there to motivate your friend.
Sharing in their success and listening in earnest to their progress could be very encouraging and help them stay on course for the goal.
But don't forget, you're their friend not their financial trainer who's going to be annoyed at them if they didn't do quite as good as they could.
Foolish takeaway
Doing each of these things for your friend could make a huge difference to their finances over time, if they want the help.
