"فلسفه ثروتمندان و فقيران اين است: ثروتمندان پولشان را سرمايه‌گذاری می‌کنند و باقيمانده را خرج می‌کنند. فقيران پولشان را خرج می‌کنند و باقيمانده را سرمايه‌گذاری می‌کنند."

The essence of the quote is about the mindset difference between wealthy and less wealthy individuals in how they manage their money. Essentially, the wealthy prioritize investing first and use what's left for spending, while those who struggle financially usually spend first and try to invest whatever remains, which is often not much.

Historically, this reflects a common piece of financial wisdom that's been around for ages. Think about the stories of people like Warren Buffett or other financially successful figures. They didn't start with riches but developed the habit of treating investment as a priority. This mentality pays off over the long term because investments grow and compound, providing a strong financial foundation.

Let's dive into a real-life example. Imagine there are two friends, Alex and Jamie. Both earn the same salary. Alex has a habit of investing 20% of his income as soon as he gets it. He puts money into stocks, a retirement fund, and even some in a high-yield savings account. The remaining 80% goes towards living expenses and discretionary spending.

On the other hand, Jamie spends first — rent, bills, groceries, nights out, and spontaneous buys. If there's any money left, which usually isn’t much, Jamie might put it in the savings account. Over a decade, Alex's investments have grown significantly, providing not just a safety net but also additional income streams. Jamie, meanwhile, struggles to save anything substantial, often feeling stressed about unexpected expenses.

So, how can you apply this wisdom? Start by paying yourself first. Set up automatic transfers to your investment accounts as soon as you get your paycheck. This can be a 401(k), an IRA, or even a regular brokerage account. It doesn't have to be a huge amount; even starting small can make a big difference over time. The key is consistency. By making investing a non-negotiable part of your budget, you’re ensuring your future financial well-being.

Now, imagine you’re having a conversation with your friend who’s always stressed about money. You’re sitting in a cozy coffee shop, sipping your favorite brew. Your friend confides, “I never seem to have enough money to save, let alone invest.” You nod, understandingly, and reply, “I used to feel the same. But then I started treating my investments like a bill I had to pay every month. You know, like rent or utilities. It’s a mindset shift. Start small—maybe just $50 a month. Over time, you’ll see it grow, and you’ll feel more in control.”

This approach isn’t about cutting out all fun or living a miserly life. It’s about finding that balance where you prioritize your future self just as much as your present one. Shifting your mindset to invest first can transform your financial trajectory, setting you up for a more secure and prosperous future.

Think about it: it’s not just about the money. It’s about creating habits that build wealth and reduce stress. By prioritizing investments, you’re not just saving money; you’re buying peace of mind, opportunities, and, ultimately, freedom.