In 2022, I found myself trapped in the endless cycle of earning and spending—paycheck to paycheck. Fast forward to 2025, I’ve built multiple income streams, cleared debts, and created a lifestyle of financial peace. I’m sharing my real journey—not a theory, not a listicle. This blog walks you through what actually worked for me: from tech-driven budgeting to side hustles that grew into stable income sources.
My Transformation Journey to Financial Freedom
1. Understanding Where My Money Went
I started with tracking every rupee. Apps like YNAB (You Need A Budget) and Walnut gave me insight into my spending patterns. I realized how much I wasted on subscriptions, dining out, and impulse buys. I am attaching the links below of YNAB and Walnut so you can also get benefit with these apps.
Pro Tip: Connect your bank accounts to a budgeting app that shows real-time updates.
2. Created a Monthly Zero-Based Budget
Instead of traditional budgets, I used a zero-based system—where every rupee had a job before the month started. This method forced discipline and clarity.
3. Built Emergency Fund Using Auto-Saving Apps
I began saving small with Jar and Niyo—apps that round up every spend and put it into savings. Within 6 months, I had 3 months’ worth of expenses saved.
4. Chose Tech-Savvy Side Hustles
Instead of generic side hustles, I focused on skills I could monetize online:
- Freelance Writing on Upwork.
- Selling Canva templates on Gumroad.
- Offering social media services for local businesses.
- One client turned into a long-term retainer and changed my financial game.
5. Learned to Invest Smartly (Not Blindly)
I didn't follow YouTube “top 10 stock” trends. I learned from Groww Academy and followed Monika Halan’s books to understand index funds, mutual funds, and SIPs. I started with Rs. 1,000 monthly and gradually increased as my income grew.
Click on it to have Monika Halan's Book.
6. Automated Everything
I automated my savings, investments, and even bills. Automation removed the risk of human error and procrastination.
My Thoughts
According to me Financial freedom is not about earning crores overnight—it's about intentional habits. I didn’t start with much. But every month, with each decision, I built a stronger foundation. If I could do it from scratch in 2022 and see the impact in 2025—you can too, Just work for it.
And If you want to truly master Financial Freedom I suggest you to save more that's why:
How I Doubled My Savings in 6 Months Using Smart Money Habits
Check out this blog to know more.
And here are some FAQ's too if you have any queries.
FAQs
Q1: How long did it take you to see results?
A: It took about 6 months to stabilize my finances and 1.5 years to call myself “financially free.”
Q2: What's the best budgeting app?
A: I personally loved YNAB for planning and Walnut for tracking.
Q3: Is freelancing sustainable?
A: Yes. I built long-term relationships with clients through consistency and good communication.
Q4: How much should I save each month?
A: Start with at least 20% of your income, even if it’s small. It compounds.
Blog Written By
Azfar Sohail is a digital finance blogger and content strategist with over 4 years of experience helping readers make smarter money decisions. His passion lies in breaking down complex financial topics into easy, understandable advice. From budgeting and saving to investing and earning passive income online, Azfar delivers insights rooted in real-world experience. He’s also the founder of Cash Yourself, a platform focused on financial education, digital growth, and monetization strategies. When he’s not writing, Azfar enjoys exploring emerging fintech tools and helping others build passive online income streams.
1 Comments
Just read your article,I was searching for some budgeting apps and found good ones through your article Thanks lot
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