What does it mean to live within your means?

Living within your means refers to managing your finances in such a way that you do not spend more than you earn and only purchase what you can afford. This approach involves creating a budget that aligns your spending habits with your income, ensuring that you maintain financial stability and avoid unnecessary debt. By living within your means, you prioritize essential expenses, save for emergencies, and allocate funds for future goals without relying on credit or loans.

This principle is fundamental to personal finance management, promoting responsible spending, savings, and investment habits. It helps you develop a sustainable financial lifestyle that reduces stress and increases your ability to handle unexpected expenses, ultimately leading to long-term financial health.