What I am Really Doing With My Money in 2025 (Spoiler: It’s Not Just Savings Accounts Anymore)

By Jake WalkerLifestyle

What I am Really Doing With My Money in 2025 (Spoiler: It’s Not Just Savings Accounts Anymore)

I want to share something that has been on my mind: finances. I am not talking about “how to retire by 35,” but about how to feel at ease with my money. I have been on the financial awareness journey for a while now. Last year, I started my saving and investing journey and this year I am taking it one step further.

It’s 2025. Grocery prices continue to rise, rent remains unchanged, and utility costs are high. For a long time, I thought having a savings account meant I was set. Recently, though, that doesn’t feel enough – both financially and emotionally.

Surprisingly, the latest report from the Office for National Statistics (ONS) shows that UK households saved 12% of their disposable income by the end of 2024. This illustrates we are careful with our money. Although there are attractive returns, many of us are opting to play it safe.

So, here’s what I am focusing on my finances this year. No complicated terms or stress. Just sincere actions that matter to my life – and maybe to yours, too. Let’s get started!

Managing Bills Without Feeling Overwhelmed

Let’s be honest: most of us are just trying to meet our basic needs without feeling stressed. Last year, there were times when I felt ashamed about buying coffee.

£3.20 for a latte? That’s ridiculous.

But treating myself a little helped me relax after a long week.

Instead of aiming for a perfect budget, I made one that gave me some room to breathe. I started a “don’t panic” fund, which is separate from my savings. This fund is for those weeks when I have unexpected expenses or when I am unable to handle cooking.

I am not trying to make my finances perfect. I want to manage without feeling crushed.

Realising My Savings Account Wasn’t Enough

Savings accounts are a responsible option for adults. I had one at the same bank where I opened my teen account. However, I realised that I was hardly making any money from it. I was saving, but my balance didn’t seem to increase. It felt like it was getting smaller.

That’s when I began searching for better alternatives. I opened a savings account with a higher interest rate, which was still low but better than the previous one. I also tried premium bonds; they have low risk, some fun, and occasionally a small win. It’s not a huge change, but it’s better than nothing.

While traditional savings methods are still part of my plan, I need to expand my thinking and explore new ways to make my money work for me.

Finding Steady Growth, Not Big Risks

I want to make it clear that I don’t want to be like the Wolf of Wall Street. I am not into stocks or spending my Sunday reading financial news.

What I do want is for my money to grow steadily and safely. That’s the reason why I am focusing more on things such as workplace pensions and Individual Savings Accounts. I also set up a Lifetime ISA to help with future housing needs (because, yes, I still dream of owning a home, even though UK house prices are high).

These options are not exciting, but they feel reliable. That’s enough for me right now.

Exploring Non-Traditional Investments

This year, I was really surprised to find myself drawn to investments that feel intangible. I mean things you can touch, like gold, artwork, and even whisky.

Platforms like London Cask Traders say they’re seeing more interest from people who want something long-term and physical; a cask of whisky that quietly grows in value while you get on with life. Honestly? It makes sense. Not everyone wants to stare at a trading app all day.

When you learn that rare whisky prices have gone up by 280% in the last ten years, you start to think it might be more common than it seems.

Many people I know, mainly younger ones, are starting to think this way. Interestingly, 56% of millennials and Gen Z in the UK prefer alternative investments over traditional stocks. It’s not about showing off. It is about achieving a sense of stability, even if it is just a small part of your financial plan.

Shifting My Focus From Panic to Progress

I used to think that financial security meant hitting specific numbers. I believed that if I didn’t save X by 30, I was failing. However, I have started to change that thinking.

Now, I ask myself questions like:

• Do I understand my spending habits?
• Can I handle an unexpected expense without stress?
• Am I saving anything, even a small amount?

It took me a while, but I have learned that money should improve my life, not make me feel like I am not managing adulthood.

Where I Am Now (And What I Still Don’t Know)

Look, I am not an expert. I mostly search questions like “What’s the difference between an ETF and an index fund?” more than I would like to admit.

But I am starting to feel more confident. It’s not because I know everything but because I have stopped trying to copy what others do. I have found what works best for me: a mix of saving, easy investments, and letting myself spend without guilt when needed.

I am still learning about it. Many of us are. If there’s one lesson I have learned, it’s this: it is okay to be thoughtful and a bit messy with your finances as long as you keep making progress.

Final Thoughts

If your financial habits in 2025 are not great, you are not alone. The world has changed, and we are all doing our best with what we have.

Improvement doesn’t have to be expensive. Whether you’re enjoying a cheap latte, buying your first cask of whisky, or opening a good savings account, what matters is that it feels meaningful to you.