Getting your first salary feels good.

Then the money starts leaving your pocket.

Here are 8 mistakes to avoid:

1. Don’t spend before you plan

Before the money starts going out, decide where it needs to go.

A simple place to start is the 50/30/20 rule:

50% for needs.

30% for wants.

20% for savings or paying off debt.

Adjust the percentages when your situation requires it.

2. Don’t spend your whole salary

Your salary is not your spending limit.

Keep some money for savings and unexpected expenses.

3. Don’t upgrade your lifestyle too quickly

New job does not mean you need a new phone, new clothes, more outings and a more expensive apartment.

Give your income time to grow.

4. Don’t wait until the end of the month to save

Salary comes in.

Save first.

Spend what remains.

5. Don’t ignore emergency savings

Unexpected expenses will come.

Start putting money aside for repairs, medical bills and other emergencies.

6. Don’t say yes to every financial request

You can help people without putting your own finances under pressure.

Know what you can afford.

7. Don’t rush into debt

A new salary can make loans and instalment payments look easy.

Think about the repayment before taking on the debt.

8. Don’t ignore your small expenses

Data. Transport. Food deliveries. Subscriptions. Random purchases.

They can quietly take a large part of your salary.

Track where your money goes.

Your first salary is exciting.

Enjoy it.

Just make sure your money is working for you too.