How to Start Saving When You’ve Never Saved Before

How to Start Saving When You’ve Never Saved Before

Saving money is not about what you earn. It’s about what you respect.

Williams Omodunefe

I used to think saving was something you do when life is sweet. When the alerts are plenty. When rent isn’t hanging over your head and there’s still rice in the pot after Wednesday.

But the truth is, saving isn’t something you wait to do. It’s something you start doing, right where you are. Not because it’s easy, but because peace of mind is worth more than comfort today.

If you’ve never saved before, or if every attempt ends in guilt and withdrawal, this is for you.

1. Start With Why, Not How

Before you even open a savings account or download an app, pause and ask:
Why do I want to save?

• Is it to stop living with shame when emergencies happen?

• Is it to take care of someone you love?

• Is it to rest someday without fear?

That “why” will carry you on days when saving feels useless.

2. Choose Peace Over Perfection

You don’t need ₦50,000 per month to begin. Even ₦500 is a start.
The secret is consistency, not size. And consistency only comes when saving feels kind, not painful.

Pick an amount that doesn't shake your body when you set it aside. The goal isn’t to impress your bank app, it’s to build muscle. Slowly.

3. Use the Right Method for You

Try:

• The envelope method: Save cash physically, especially if you don’t trust yourself around apps yet

• Split account method: Automatically send part of your income to another account you don’t touch

• Mobile saving apps: Like PiggyVest, Cowrywise, or Opay FlexiSave, if you prefer digital tools

4. Let It Be Emotional

Sometimes, your savings is the only proof that you loved your future self.
So celebrate it.
Screenshot that ₦2,000 balance like it’s gold. Tell yourself well done.

Saving is a quiet revolution in a world that tells you you’re never earning enough.

5. Don’t Wait for “Better Days”

You don’t start saving when things get easy. You start saving so life gets easier.

Start today. Even if it’s small. Even if it’s shaky. Even if it feels like it won’t matter.

Because one day it will.