It’s finally happened: you’re a college graduate, got a fancy new job, a lease or mortgage, and maybe a new dog. Life is great, right?

Well, not quite.

Now that your college days are behind you, so are the comforting routines of class courses, part-time jobs, late nights out, and the “I’ll figure it out later” attitude.

Whether you graduated last month or several years out, you’re hardly alone if you feel overwhelmed by the financial realities of the real world. Here are 5 money and life lessons nobody learns in school. What starts now is paying back your loans, budgeting, and dressing up for your commute to your career.

1. Your overall financial situation
   With each passing year, your income and investments become more complex. But in its most basic form, knowing your financial situation means learning your credit score, paying your bills, and figuring out ways to pay off student debt.
2. Budgeting
   Once you know how much money you have, owe, and make, it’s time to figure out your budget. By tracking your income and spending habits, you’ll lay the foundation to reach your financial goals.
3. Job perks
   No matter if your job is brand new or bland at this point, it’s good to take time to know your employee handbook for perks you may have overlooked when you first got hired. Look into your company’s retirement plan types and health insurance options. You want to take advantage of potential bonuses and perks, such as free gym memberships, commute stipends, or work-from-home stipends.
4. Retirement savings / 401k
   This may not be the most exciting thing to review, but your future self will thank you later for diving into your current 401(k) options. With time invested into your 401(k), you are planning a future early, and it’s a lot less stressful when starting later in life.
5. Work-life balance
   We all have different ideas for work-life balance. If you need clarification on what yours is, consider taking the first few weeks on the job to figure that out. Then, if you feel tired or overwhelmed, it may be time to renegotiate those work-life boundaries. Once you adjust to your work schedule, look for things to do that create a relaxing and exciting atmosphere.

Reference
https://www.msn.com/en-us/money/personalfinance/45-money-life-lessons-nobody-learns-in-school-but-should/ss-AAXAO5J.