Breaking the Generational Cycle of Poor Financial Decisions

If you grew up in a household where finance was confusing or they were a source of stress, then you are not alone. Many of us watched our parents struggle with debt, live paycheck to paycheck, or make financial choices without any good tools or complete knowledge.

These habits and beliefs often get passed down without us even realizing it. The way your family talks about or deals with money shapes how you think about it today and how you take your financial decisions.

But the good news is that we always have the chance to change this situation.

At Revolve Financial, we believe that you have the power to change the story for yourself and for the generations after you.

What Is a Generational Money Cycle?

It is simple: we learn what we live.

If you saw money being used carelessly or with fear, you may have picked up those patterns. Maybe your parents did not ever plan a budget. Maybe they avoided conversations about money or treated it like a constant source of worry. Over time, these habits become the norm.

Here are a few signs that show you might be stuck in a money cycle:

You feel anxious when you think about finances.

  • You avoid budgeting or checking your bank balance.

  • You believe that you will never be good with financial decisions.

  • You spend impulsively or feel guilty after purchases.

  • You think owning a home or building wealth is not for you.

The first step to breaking the cycle is noticing it.

Why It is Hard to Change

Money is not just about numbers. It is also related to our emotions. Our money habits and financial decisions are usually tied to feelings like fear, shame, or insecurity. And when life is busy, it feels easy to keep going with what feels familiar, even if it is not working.


Add to that:

  • Lack of education: Most of us were never taught how to budget, save, or invest.

  • Family pressure or guilt: You might feel bad doing things differently than your parents did.

  • Instant culture: It’s tempting to go for quick wins (like buy-now-pay-later schemes) instead of long-term gains.

But it is possible to shift direction. And you don’t need to be rich, an expert, or perfect to do it.

So, How Do You Break the Cycle?

It starts with a few simple, honest steps to change our financial decisions:

1. Understand Your Own Money Story

Think back to how money was handled when you were growing up:

  • Were bills talked about openly or hidden?

  • Did your parents argue over money?

  • Was there ever a savings plan?

  • What messages did you hear about wealth or debt?

Understanding your past helps you take control of your future.

2. Set a Realistic Long-Term Plan

At Revolve Financial, we talk a lot about your “10-year plan.” Why? Because getting a home loan isn’t just about buying today, it’s about where you want to be tomorrow and years down the line.

Ask yourself:

  • Where do I want to be financially in 10 years?

  • Do I want to own my own home? Start investing? Be debt-free?

  • What kind of lifestyle do I want for my family?

Having a clear goal and rigid financial decisions keeps you focused when temptations or setbacks show up.

3. Make Small, Smart Moves

Change doesn’t have to be big or dramatic. Start with what’s manageable:

  • Track your spending for a week without any judgement.

  • Create a basic budget with three things: income, bills, and savings.

  • Set up automatic savings, even if it’s just $10 a week.

  • Cancel subscriptions you don’t use.

  • Talk to someone about refinancing or checking your current loan.

Each small step builds confidence and momentum for better money habits.

4. Learn As You Go

There is no shame in not knowing everything.

Start reading blogs, listening to podcasts, or talking to people who can explain things in a way that makes sense. Don’t worry about getting it all perfect, just keep learning.

And if you have kids, start teaching them simple money habits early because there are long term benefits of financial education. Let them see you, save, plan, and ask questions. The cycle starts to shift when the next generation sees a different way.

5. Work With People Who See the Big Picture

Many mortgage brokers focus on one thing: getting you a loan fast. That’s not us.

At Revolve Financial, we believe the best financial decisions are made when we understand your why. Founder Matty Buhagiar has been where you are. He made some big mistakes early on because no one took the time to show him the bigger picture.

That’s why we work differently. We take the time to listen, map out your goals, and help you make decisions that work for you today and in the long run.

Conclusion

Breaking the cycle of poor financial decisions is not about being perfect with money. It is about being intentional. You have the power to shift the story for yourself, your family, and generations to come. And you don’t have to do it alone.

At Revolve Financial, we are here to help you make smart, simple financial decisions with your money and property. We will guide you through the lending process with honest advice, plain language, and a focus on your goals.

Need Help Getting Started?

Reach out to us today, and let us talk about your 10-year plan. We are here to make things easier, clearer, and better in the long run.

Previous
Previous

Long-term Thinking: How Home Loan Choices Affect Financial Freedom

Next
Next

Lets make 2025 Extroadinary