The Money Mistakes I Almost Didn't Share 😭


Hello Reader,

Mistakes, setbacks, and bad money decisions don’t mean the game is over; they just mean it’s time to pivot, regroup, and get back in the driver’s seat of your financial life.
Clever Girl Millionaire, Chapter 6

We love to celebrate the wins. We rarely talk about the losses.

But before I was a certified financial educator and a bestselling author, I was a young woman who made a very expensive mistake.

When I left my first job, I cashed out my 401(k) because I didn’t know better. I didn't roll it over properly; I just deposited the check into my checking account with a plan to send it to my rollover IRA later.

That single decision triggered taxes and penalties that wiped out nearly 40% of my hard-earned savings.

I felt foolish. I felt like I had ruined my head start.

I share this story in my new book not to scare you, but to prove a point: You cannot shame yourself into wealth.

I want you to know that your financial past does not define your financial future.

I wrote Chapter 6 of Clever Girl Millionaire specifically for anyone who needs to bounce back. It’s the recovery plan I wish I had back then.

Your comeback matters more than your setback.

If you’re ready to let go of the guilt and start building again, I’d love for you to grab a copy.

Love,
Bola ❤️

Clever Girl Finance

Clever Girl Finance isn’t just about money. We are about freedom, choices, and confidence. We know how overwhelming finances can feel, especially when you’re juggling career, family, and personal goals. That’s why we’ve built one of the largest personal finance communities for women, with over 100,000 women learning, growing, and winning with their money together.When you subscribe, you’re not just signing up for financial tips, you’re joining a movement. You’ll get access to relatable, judgment-free advice designed to help you ditch debt, save consistently, and invest with confidence. We break down money topics in a way that’s simple, practical, and actually fun. Whether you want to build your first emergency fund, pay off thousands in debt, or finally start building wealth for the long term, we’ve got the tools and support you need. With our resources, tools, and strategies, you’ll know you’re not alone on this journey. Subscribe today—because your future self deserves the financial freedom you’re dreaming of!

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