Forget the Internet Math. Let’s Get Real.
You’ve probably seen the headlines:
“You should have three times your annual salary saved by age 30.”
“If you haven’t saved €100,000 yet, you’re already behind.”
Let’s stop right there.
These kinds of blanket statements might go viral online, but they’re almost always shared without context — and usually written by someone whose financial reality looks nothing like yours.
The truth? How much you should have saved depends entirely on your life. Not someone else’s chart. Not Twitter’s expectations. Just yours.
Let’s talk about setting savings goals that actually work in the real world — not just in spreadsheets.
First: Savings Isn’t Just One Number
Most people think of “savings” as a single lump sum. But smart saving is made up of three different buckets, each with its own purpose:
- Emergency Fund — to protect you from unexpected expenses
- Short-Term Goals — for things like travel, a new car, moving costs
- Long-Term Growth — retirement, investments, financial freedom
Your first priority is the emergency fund. Once that’s covered, you can start funding goals and investing for the future.
Realistic Savings Targets by Age
Forget hard rules. Here’s a practical, flexible way to think about savings goals — based on your stage of life:
| Age Group | Emergency Fund | Short-Term Savings | Long-Term Savings |
|---|---|---|---|
| 20s | €2,000–€6,000 | 5–10% of income | 5–10% invested |
| 30s | €5,000–€15,000 | 10–15% of income | 1x–1.5x income |
| 40s | €10,000+ | Depends on goals | 2x–3x income |
| 50s+ | 6–12 months | Travel, legacy, etc. | 4x+ income |
These are just benchmarks — not deadlines. What really matters is building consistency, not hitting perfect numbers.
What If You’re “Behind”?
First of all, you’re not behind. You’re just starting now — and that’s more than most people do.
Here’s how to begin:
- Build a basic €1,000 buffer. Sell what you don’t need, cut back temporarily, freelance if you can.
- Open a high-yield savings account so your money starts working.
- Automate small transfers — even €50–€100 per month can add up quickly.
- Treat savings like rent — non-negotiable, part of your monthly rhythm.
Progress isn’t about making huge leaps. It’s about building habits that stick.
Tools to Help You Track Progress
You don’t need a financial advisor to get organized. Here are some tools that make saving easier:
- YNAB (You Need a Budget): Great for goal tracking and monthly planning
- Revolut, Monzo, or N26: Simple apps with savings “vaults” and automation
- Excel or Notion templates: For those who prefer DIY tracking
- Automated savings rules: Round up each purchase or save a % of your salary automatically
Choose one method and stick to it — the consistency matters more than the tool itself.
Shift Your Mindset: It’s Not About the Number
Saving isn’t about stockpiling cash or comparing your balance to someone else’s. It’s about giving yourself options.
Want to leave a job that’s draining you? You’ll need savings.
Want to take a break, move cities, or start something on your own? Savings makes that possible.
Even just sleeping better at night? That’s what an emergency fund buys.
It’s not about money for money’s sake. It’s stored energy — freedom you’re building for your future self.
The Bottom Line
- Start with an emergency fund (3–6 months of expenses)
- Set realistic short-term savings goals based on what matters to you
- Automate long-term savings — even €50/month adds up
- Track your progress, but avoid comparing it to anyone else’s
- Remember: savings = options, not restrictions
You’re Not Behind — You’re Just Getting Started
Most people don’t ask themselves how much they should save. They just float through, reacting to bills and life as it comes. You’re doing something different — and that matters.
Forget the pressure. Forget the perfect targets.
Start where you are.
Move forward one habit at a time.
And remember: consistency builds freedom.
That’s a story worth investing in.
