Why "Paying Yourself First" Isn’t Just About Money

Why "Paying Yourself First" Isn’t Just About Money

Most of us have heard this advice before: “Pay yourself first.” Financial advisors often tell us to save or invest a portion of our income before paying bills or spending on other things. But let’s be honest—what happens when the bills already match or exceed your paycheck? Saving feels impossible.

But here’s the thing: paying yourself first doesn’t have to mean money. (At least until you learn or figure out how to eliminate unnecessary bills). There’s another way to invest in yourself, and it’s something anyone can do, no matter their financial situation. It’s about setting aside time to learn and grow—gaining knowledge, learning new skills, or working toward your dreams.

The Science of Investing in Yourself

A 2018 study published in the Journal of Applied Psychology found that people who dedicate time to personal development—like learning a new skill or improving their education—experience higher levels of confidence, job satisfaction, and overall happiness. The reason is simple: when you grow, you feel more capable and in control of your life.

When you take the time to invest in yourself, you’re essentially building your future. Just like money in a savings account earns interest over time, the knowledge and skills you gain today will multiply their value in the years to come.

What Does the Bible Say About Investing in Yourself?

Scripture teaches us the importance of wisdom and preparation:

• “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out” (Proverbs 18:15). God values learning and growth. When you dedicate time to bettering yourself, you honor His plan for your life.

• “Whatever you do, work at it with all your heart, as working for the Lord, not for human masters” (Colossians 3:23). Even the time you spend learning or practicing a skill can be a way of serving God if you do it wholeheartedly.

How to "Pay Yourself" With Time

Even if you can’t set aside money to invest, you can always find time. Here’s how:

1. Wake Up Early.
   Start your day by working on your goals. Whether it’s learning a new language, practicing a craft, or studying for a certification, use the quiet morning hours to focus on you.

2. Use Your Lunch Break Wisely.
   Instead of scrolling through your phone or zoning out, use that time to read, watch educational videos, or practice a new skill.

3. End Your Day Strong.
   After work, spend even 30 minutes on something that moves you closer to your dream. It might not seem like much, but it adds up over time.

4. Turn Waiting Time Into Learning Time.
   Whether you’re in a waiting room, on the train, or standing in line, take those moments to listen to a podcast, read an article, or review notes on something you’re trying to master.

The Alternative to Waiting

Here’s the truth: most people wait for the “perfect time” to start investing in themselves. They say, “When I have more money, then I’ll learn that skill,” or “When life slows down, then I’ll start working on my dream.” But guess what? Life rarely slows down, and extra money rarely just shows up.

The alternative? Start today, even if it’s small.

The Ripple Effect of Paying Yourself

When you invest in your own growth, the benefits don’t just stop with you. You’ll find yourself more confident, better equipped to handle challenges, and even more valuable to others—whether that’s in your workplace, your family, or your community.

Jesus said in Luke 14:28, “Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it?” While this verse speaks of planning, it also reminds us that preparation is key. Investing time in yourself is part of preparing for the life you want.

Small Steps, Big Changes

So, what’s stopping you? You don’t need a huge block of time or lots of money to start. Begin with 10 or 15 minutes a day. Take a small step, and then another. Over time, you’ll be amazed at how much you’ve grown.

Before you give all your time and energy to someone else’s dream, set aside a little for your own. Paying yourself first—whether with time, learning, or effort—might be the best investment you ever make.

What’s one skill or goal you’ll work on today? Share it in the comments and inspire others to do the same!