I still remember that first paycheck, nervously asking the HR team if they had my payroll slip, thinking at any point, they could just take back the money. No, that’s not how it works. That first paycheck feeling is as good as that first bite of your Maccas cheeseburger after a big night out.

What to do with that money is a whole different question…

Making a budget and understanding your costs

As daunting as this might sound, you are an adult now, most likely with a few responsibilities. However much you want to buy with your GRADLiFE discounts (shameless plug), the best advice I can give you is making a list of all your costs for the month and understanding what needs to be paid and when it needs to be paid. Format the info in a way that works for you - whether that’s a spreadsheet, notepad or just checking your mobile banking.

Weigh up what you need vs what you want

Without wanting to sound like your parents, you need to weigh up your finances and think about anything you need to buy vs what you want to treat yourself with. Maybe this is a new pair of work shoes, a new laptop case or any new furniture if you are working from home.

Saving your money is important, treating yourself is more important.

Perhaps contradictory to what I mentioned above, however, it’s still important to know all your costs and what your financial priorities are. Saving money is an important factor; your future self will appreciate your forward planning when you need to buy presents for everyone at Christmas (what a bore) or start looking to buy your first house later down the track.

However, make sure to indulge in ‘treat yourself’ moments - you work to live not live to work and deserve to enjoy some guilt-free splurges.