By now, you’ve probably heard tons of recommendations on personal finance management. Yet there is one simple truth that many of us neglect: you are the only author of your financial story! No co-editors, publishers, or fellow authors. Many people are quick to blame their circumstances, bad luck, or others for their economic struggles. While it is hard to debate that life can throw unexpected lemons your way, in most cases, your financial situation results from your own decisions.

This might feel uncomfortable to acknowledge, but it is also empowering. If you are the one responsible, you are also the one capable of changing it. The path to financial success does not run through shortcuts. Financial success is a steady climb that begins with taking responsibility and acting.

The first step is to invest in your financial education. Spending just one hour a week learning about personal finance can change your understanding (and your bank account, of course). The Internet offers a lot of free resources, including blogs, videos, articles, and tools. They are there to guide you through everything from budgeting to investing. Seek out mentors who have walked the path before you.

You’d be surprised how willing people are to share their wisdom. Sometimes, the best lessons are closer than you think. A conversation with a family member or friend who has managed their money well can be more valuable than any book. Everyone loves to talk about their successes, so don’t hesitate to ask.

The second lesson: don’t hope to hit the jackpot overnight. Most millionaires didn’t stumble into their fortunes but earned them gradually. They started with little money, little knowledge, and often little hope. Over time, they earned more, saved more, and invested more. Of course, millionaires also made mistakes, but treated each one as a lesson, focusing on getting the best value for their money and living comfortably within their means.

To achieve financial success, you need goals. Short-term goals, like saving for a vacation or contributing to a retirement fund, keep you motivated and disciplined. They provide small wins that build momentum. Long-term goals, on the other hand, give your efforts a sense of purpose. Setting these goals will help you achieve the freedom to live a life aligned with your values.