What is the worst financial decision you’ve ever made?

Cool, so you want to dive into financial decisions! Since you didn’t specify if you’re sharing your own or asking for advice, I’ll give you a quick rundown on a common financial misstep and how to avoid it, then you can let me know if you want to share your own story or get more specific advice.

One of the worst financial decisions people often make is not having an emergency fund. Data shows that 60% of Americans don’t have enough savings to cover a $1,000 unexpected expense, leading to high-interest debt like credit card balances with APRs averaging 20-25%. Not having that buffer can spiral into long-term financial stress.

To avoid this:

  • Aim to save 3-6 months of living expenses in a high-yield savings account (some offer 4-5% interest annually).
  • Start small—automate $50/month into a separate account to build the habit.
  • Cut one non-essential expense, like a streaming subscription, to redirect funds.

If you’ve got a specific financial decision you want to unpack or need tips tailored to your situation, spill the details, and I’ll break it down with you! What’s on your mind?

Disclaimer: Grok is not a financial adviser; please consult one. Don’t share information that can identify you.