![\"george](\"https:\/\/www.newsbeep.com\/uk\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/01\/George-Kamel-Vertical-Hi-Res.jpg\")
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\n \u00a9Ramsey Solutions <\/p>\n
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GOBankingRates’ editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services – our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines<\/a> and our products and services review methodology<\/a>.<\/p>\n 20 Years Trusted by When money expert George Kamel was in his early 20s, he struggled with $40,000 in credit card and student loan debt and felt pessimistic about his situation. But after working a regular job and following Dave Ramsey\u2019s 7 Baby Steps, he was able to reach millionaire status within 10 years.<\/p>\n In a recent YouTube video<\/a>, Kamel discussed 11 lessons that helped him go from broke to wealthy<\/a>. While these tips are geared toward people in their 20s, many are helpful regardless of your age.<\/p>\n Also see seven key signs you\u2019ll be a millionaire sooner than you think<\/a>.<\/p>\n 1. Choose the Right Spouse<\/p>\n Kamel explained that marrying someone who was on board with his financial plans, including paying off debt quickly, was important for achieving his wealth.\u00a0<\/p>\n<\/p>\n You should find out if your potential partner budgets<\/a>, controls their spending, avoids debt and supports your long-term goals. Not only will this help your finances, but getting agreement early on should reduce the arguments you\u2019ll have.<\/p>\n 2. Purchase Appreciating Assets<\/p>\n While it\u2019s OK to have some things just for fun, Kamel said that spending money<\/a> on cars, Beanie Babies and other items that don\u2019t have rising values won\u2019t help with building wealth. Instead, focus on appreciating assets like homes and retirement account investments.\u00a0<\/p>\n \u201cBuy things that make you actually wealthy instead of things that just make you look wealthy,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n 3. Don\u2019t DIY Everything<\/p>\n Following a YouTube tutorial to fix something at home seems like a smart way to save money, but it can backfire if you make a mistake or abandon the project after paying for materials.\u00a0<\/p>\n Kamel explained that it\u2019s sometimes financially wiser to let a pro handle the job. This is also a good recommendation for legal and financial needs, like dealing with taxes or selling a home.<\/p>\n 4. Prioritize Financial Literacy<\/p>\n The latest Ramsey Solutions State of Personal Finance in America study<\/a> showed that 49% of American adults viewed their financial situation neutrally or negatively. Regardless of which financial problem you have, understanding the basics of money is crucial for tackling it.<\/p>\n Since many people don\u2019t learn about personal finance in school, Kamel suggested checking out books, YouTube videos, podcasts, online classes and money apps to build important skills. However, stick with trusted experts and sources since social media advice can be misleading.<\/p>\n 5. Don\u2019t Compare Yourself<\/p>\n When you\u2019re scrolling social media and seeing people show off their lavish lives or promote expensive products, don\u2019t fall into the trap of wasting money to be more like them. Otherwise, you could end up drowning in debt instead of increasing your net worth.<\/p>\n \u201cFocus on your own financial goals instead of trying to keep up with people who are probably broke but good at pretending they\u2019re not,\u201d Kamel said.<\/p>\n 6. Automate Good Money Habits<\/p>\n While planning to do something smart with your money is simple, following through can be a challenge. Maybe you forget to pay the bills or struggle to redirect funds to your savings.<\/p>\n That\u2019s why Kamel suggested automating account transfers, retirement plan contributions and bill payments. Besides saving time, you\u2019ll ensure you meet your money goals<\/a> in the background.<\/p>\n 7. Add Friction to Bad Money Habits<\/p>\n![\"\"](\"https:\/\/cdn.gobankingrates.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/11\/icon-20.svg?webp=1&quality=75\"){kind=icon}
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