Hi currently I’m working as cabin crew. I make around $3000/month and can realistically save about $1000/month.
The problem is I know this job isn’t sustainable long-term. Best case I have maybe 6–8 years left before burnout hits. I don’t want to wake up at 32 with nothing built.
I have zero investing experience and honestly don’t trust random YouTube “gurus.”
What would you do in my position?
Where should I start investing with $1000/month?
Should I focus on stocks, ETFs, real estate, or something else?
How do I build something solid in under 10 years?
I’m not looking for get-rich-quick nonsense. I just want a realistic plan that actually works.
Appreciate any advice, especially from people who started from a similar position.
Cabin Crew – Need Advice on Investing Before I Burn Out
byu/Single_Signature_712 inpersonalfinance
Posted by Single_Signature_712
5 Comments
Start with a high yield savings account. And research well how you will manage the future investments.
There are risks and understanding their likelihood is key
Thinking even longer term- what do you want to be doing 10-12 years from now? Is go from that, and work backwards in terms of certifications, online degrees, etc that may be you could be earning before then. Look for college programs that your company subsidized, work experience you can ask to be transferred to etc. Mentors you can seek out in the industry
Make sure you have 6-12 month emergency fund that will find your basic living expenses of your income stops. And also a good health insurance. After this, go nuts with investing in a retirement fund, then index funds etc. you can ask your employer about retirement fund. HR can guide you through that. Max that out if it makes sense for you. Definitely research more into these options
That’s a great percent of saving btw. You can also try for more if possible. More savings is always better if it’s not at the cost of other things that make you happy in your life
I read
1.) “Get a Financial Life: Personal Finance in Your Twenties and Thirties” by Beth Kobliner back in the day and it was supremely helpful for me. A new edition is coming out in 3 weeks!
2.) “I Will Teach You To Be Rich” by Ramit Sethi and
3.) “Simple Path to Wealth” by JR Collins are also terrific and carry the same message:
Avoid debt and invest in simple low cost ETFs (Vanguard, Fidelity) and hold them for a long time. Id say, put your money into HYSA until you’ve read enough to feel equipped to move forward. That would be a great start.