Mother’s Day 2025: Smart financial lessons we learn from our moms

On Mother’s Day, we take a moment to honour the incredible emotional strength and unwavering support that mothers provide. But there’s another role they’ve quietly perfected over the years, being the financial masterminds of the household. From budgeting to long-term savings, many of the money habits we carry with us today were shaped by observing our mothers skillfully manage the family finances.

Everyday budgeting was a daily life skill at home: Long before budgeting apps and digital trackers became the norm, mothers were the ones keeping a close eye on monthly expenses. They juggled ledgers, rationed groceries, and balanced school fees, bills, and the occasional treat, all without any formal training. Their goal was always to make every rupee count while ensuring that the family’s needs were met.

Emergency savings were always part of the plan: Whether it is hidden envelopes, gold jewellery tucked away, or fixed deposits saved for those "just in case" moments, mothers have a knack for building safety nets. This instinctive approach to saving for emergencies aligns perfectly with today’s financial planning principles, which emphasise the importance of having contingency funds ready for life’s unexpected twists and turns.

Smart spending without compromising on essentials: Mothers know how to make resources stretch, whether it meant waiting for a sale before buying clothes or finding new uses for household items. They prioritise needs over wants and taught us to assess value before making a purchase, long before terms like minimalism or sustainability became trendy.

Investing in education and health as core goals: For many families, the biggest investments are in their children’s education and overall well-being. Even when money is tight, these priorities are non-negotiable. This forward-thinking approach to where money should be allocated mirrors the strategic financial planning practices we use today to set and achieve life goals.

Home finance management was a quiet masterclass: From managing debt to handling seasonal expenses like festivals and school admissions, mothers showcase remarkable financial discipline. Without labelling it as financial literacy, they pass down practical, real-world money management skills that have stood the test of time.