Introduction

Wealth isn’t about luck or lottery wins. It’s about consistent systems. This roadmap outlines how an average person can move from paycheck-to-paycheck living to long-term financial independence.

Step 1: Crush High-Interest Debt

Interest is the silent killer. A €2,000 credit card balance at 24% APR doubles in 3 years if left unchecked. Use the Avalanche method: pay high-rate debt first, minimums on the rest. Or the Snowball if you need motivation.

Step 2: Build the Safety Net

An emergency fund of 3–6 months’ expenses is your shield. Start with €1,000 as a “quick fund” to avoid new debt when the car breaks or a medical bill arrives.

Step 3: Automate Investments

Wealth grows with time. Set up recurring investments into index funds or ETFs. Even €200 per month, compounded over 25 years at 7% growth, becomes nearly €130,000.

Step 4: Create Multiple Income Streams

A single salary is fragile. Consider freelancing, rental properties, digital products, or dividend-paying stocks. Even €100/month extra compounds into tens of thousands when invested.

Step 5: Protect Your Assets

Insurance, wills, and proper legal planning are boring but essential. Without them, a single event can undo years of progress.

Step 6: Lifelong Learning

Read at least one finance or economics book every 3 months. Knowledge compounds faster than money.

Conclusion

Wealth-building is a marathon, not a sprint. But with small daily steps, anyone—regardless of income—can secure a future where money is a tool, not a trap.