Whilst many students are in something of a crossroads moment in life - unquestionably filled with many fun, special, and pivotal moments - it's also a place that in many ways affords you the time to prepare for real life and how to take of yourself mentally and physically. From your finances to the joys of life admin, even where you choose to live - it’s all suddenly yours to manage. Luckily for you, you've found this article!
 

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Making Money Manageable
As a student, or really anyone in their early twenties, money is a much different concept from being in a career for several years. You’re less likely to have a nest egg of cash to fall back on (many wealth managers would recommend three months' worth of salary at minimum to have a solid nest egg). Equally, your salary is likely to be a little lower than the average, as you're joining at the ‘bottom of the ladder’ at many companies.
 

A Talk Money survey found that the vast majority of the younger respondents (71%) claimed to worry at least once a week about money, and almost a third (28%) to worry multiple times a week. That sustained stress is where isolated incidents can lead to more sustained physical illness and health issues. It's important to not ignore your finances, but equally not obsess over them to the point it affects your daily life.

Budgeting and saving money all come down to the visibility of spend. A holistic picture of all your bank accounts, for example, through Open Banking apps like Yolt or Emma is a nice way to control everyday in-goings and out-goings and remove the 'fear' of checking your balance after a night out or a shopping trip. Start with these simple platforms and figure out a monthly, even weekly, a budget that allows you to enjoy a balanced lifestyle that fits your current income. Living beyond your means is a one-way street to the stress that can really affect your mental health.

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Location, Location, Location
Where you live has an impact on all areas of your life. A long commute or a loud neighbourhood are going to have an impact on your energy levels and the quality of your sleep. Again, this is directly related to your physical health and can lead to more serious issues like high blood pressure, even diabetes, if not rectified.
 

Equally, your rent, or mortgage payments if you’re in that position, along with energy bills are the fixed costs that need to be managed with a little more priority than everyday spend due to their size in comparison. When we say fixed costs, however, you can save yourself a fair amount of money by looking into rent or mortgage comparison platforms like mortgage brokers like Trussle will allow you access better rates or lower fees. This uses technology to search for the best available mortgage using the data that you've entered. For some students, using a mortgage calculator will allow you to decide what kind of deposit and income you will need to get the mortgage and house of your dreams.

People will often say that their student years are some of their best. Growing into your own skin, meeting friends for life, and figuring out what professionally interests you are all journeys you have the chance to go on as you study.

However, preserving mental wellness and physical health are distinctly tied to how you can cope with everyday life's unexpected twists and turns. Preparation and a sense of self-awareness are crucial, and there isn’t really a right time to start doing these sorts of things. Because simply put, life doesn’t end after university - it’s only just beginning.
 

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