But First, Save 10

Sarah-Catherine Gutierrez (aka Ladysplaining Money) is the founder of Aptus Financial, national speaker, and co-founder of SAVE10-a campaign to empower women to save for life and retirement. She holds a BA from Salem College, an MPP from Harvard University, and the CFP® and CRPS® designations. But First, Save 10 is her first book. Find her at ladysplainingmoney.com.

MAJOR FINANCIAL MISTAKES NO LONGER HAVE TO BE A RITE OF PASSAGE FOR ADULTHOOD.Graduates experience a common, soaring feeling: Freedom. Yet, we are funneled into an economic system designed to rob our freedom, little by little, leaving many living paycheck to paycheck, transforming the dreamy and ambitious to the beat down and stressed. What if sidestepping that funnel of dread isn't as hard as we think?


"A must-read, especially for women entering the workforce." - Naseema McElroy¿Financially Intentional + Nurses on Fire podcast
"This is the book that will teach women en route to financial freedom." - James M. Dahle, MD, FACEP ¿ The White Coat Investor
"Concise, clever, and laugh-out-loud funny." - Linda Bessette ¿ Mindful Money: A Path to Simple Finances
"A life of time freedom is simply priceless. Crafting this life is possible, and it all begins with the plan to Save 10." - Lynn Frair ¿ fihealthcare.com
"The EXACT book I want my daughters to read to learn about personal finance." - Jimmy Turner, MD ¿ The Physician Philosopher's Guide to Personal Finance + Money Meets Medicine podcast
"Every young adult should read this book before making any major financial decisions in
their lives." -Rob Phelan ¿ ChooseFI Personal Finance Curriculum Developer + The Simple StartUp: A Beginner's Guide To Starting A Business



But First, Save 10 casts aside self-judgment budgeting, demystifies common financial jargon, and teaches a simple approach designed to yield abundance and joy. Plan retirement on your own terms and buck that unfulfilling job or startyour dream business-this system is your ticket to a life of true freedom, however you define it.
With a pay yourself first cash management system combined with automation, you'll accomplish what prior generations have collectively failed to do:
1. Save (enough) and invest to retire;
2. Create, fund, and retain an emergency fund;
3. Save for future expenses that bring joy, security, and freedom;
4. Pay down debt aggressively and use debt sparingly and responsibly;
5. Design a life with low fixed overhead; and
6. Enjoy spending the rest.
Finally, we have a sustainable routine, adaptable for any income at any life point-a system that offers the power to design our futures and define our destinies.