What to Do Before You Get Paid: Using the 30/70 Rule to Build Wealth and Enjoy the Life of Your Dreams
Let’s be real: when payday hits, it’s tempting to think, “Time to celebrate—I earned this!” And YES, you did! But here’s the secret sauce that separates Divas who survive from Divas who thrive: wealth is built not after you get paid, but before you even touch your paycheck.
It’s not about what you make that matters most; it’s about what you keep and how you direct it to build wealth, freedom, and a legacy that lasts.
Welcome to the 30/70 Rule—your ultimate blueprint to financial power, personal freedom, and legacy-building.
For the Women of Optometry Divas®, Money Is Power
Money isn’t just about paying bills—it’s about creating options, living boldly, and leaving a lasting impact. Whether you get paid as an employee, receive income from your business, or collect cash flow from rental properties, what matters most isn’t just how much you make—it’s how you manage it to increase your wealth and build true freedom.
Because here’s the truth: if you don’t have a plan for your money, someone else will.
Today, you’re going to discover how to make every dollar you earn work harder, smarter, and with purpose.
Remember: the way you manage your money matters.
What Is the 30/70 Rule?
The 30/70 Rule is a game-changing formula that helps you prioritize wealth-building while still enjoying life. Here’s how it works:
30% of your income goes directly toward wealth-building moves:
- 10% Giving: Support your favorite charities or causes close to your heart. Generosity isn’t just good for the soul—it aligns your money with your mission.
- 10% Investing: Build wealth with income-producing assets like real estate, annuities, and stocks. This is the engine of your financial future.
- 10% Saving: Set aside funds for emergencies, future opportunities, or new business ventures. Your safety net gives you flexibility and power.
70% of your income covers your lifestyle needs and wants:
- Housing, food, and utilities
- Self-care, travel, and family fun
- Paying off bad debts (until they’re gone for good)
- All the things that make life rich and rewarding
Why Does It Work?
As the saying goes:
“Do not save what is left after spending. Spend what is left after saving.” — Warren Buffett
The brilliance of the 30/70 Rule is that it ensures wealth-building becomes non-negotiable. Instead of hoping there’s money left for your goals, you make them your top priority—then enjoy the fruits of your labor with the rest.
Meet Dr. Aria: A Diva Success Story
Dr. Aria, a proud Optometry Divas® member, was drowning in $100,000 of student loan debt while running her growing clinic. She felt trapped—working hard but not getting ahead.
When she joined our Financial Freedom Bootcamp, she implemented the 30/70 Rule:
- 10% to her favorite health charity
- 10% to automated ETF investments
- 10% to her emergency fund
Within four years, she was debt-free, had $50,000 in investments, and—best of all—finally felt financially free.
Her words?
“The 30/70 Rule changed my life. I’m no longer working for money—my money is working for me.”
The 30/70 Rule in Action: Example
Let’s say your practice pays you $10,000/month.
- 30% ($3,000):
- $1,000 to your chosen charity
- $1,000 to investments (ETFs, rental properties, annuities)
- $1,000 to savings/retirement
- 70% ($7,000):
- Rent or mortgage, utilities
- Groceries, gas, childcare
- Your well-earned self-care and travel
Tip: Automate the 30% FIRST—before you spend a dime on anything else. This way, you’re building wealth before your spending begins.
Why Divas Love This Rule
- Purpose: You’re not just building wealth—you’re giving back and making an impact.
- Clarity: No more wondering where your money went; it’s assigned and aligned with your goals.
- Balance: You’re building your future while enjoying life today.
- Legacy: You’re creating positive cash flow and assets that outlive you.
Income-Producing Assets: Your Freedom Builders
Divas know it’s not just about saving—it’s about owning. Here’s where your 10% investing piece should shine:
- Rental properties: Earn monthly cash flow
- REITs and dividend-paying stocks: Get paid just for holding
- Annuities and insurance contracts: Lock in lifetime income
- Mutual Funds and ETFs: Build diversified, long-term growth
- Business investments: Own part of something BIG
Quick Tips to Stay on Track
- Audit your spending: Where can you free up 5–10% more for your 30% fund?
- Track your progress: Use simple tools like spreadsheets or budgeting apps.
- Involve your family: Make it a team effort to build wealth and stability.
The Diva Advantage: Why Join Our Community?
Optometry Divas® is more than just a professional network—it’s a sisterhood.
When you join, you gain access to a unique, empowering space designed just for women ODs who want to thrive personally, professionally, and financially.
Here’s what you gain when you become a Diva:
- Financial Freedom Workshops & Bootcamps: Learn actionable strategies to grow wealth, crush debt, and build a legacy.
- Leadership & Practice Growth Tools: Get the resources and mentorship to elevate your career and business.
- A Sisterhood of Support: Connect with like-minded women who celebrate your wins and help lift you up.
- Exclusive Resources & Events: Get insider access to CE courses, expert talks, networking meetups, and special offers.
- Accountability & Motivation: Surround yourself with women as committed as you are to building a life of purpose, abundance, and joy.
As Dr. Ashley J. says:
“I came for the education, but stayed for the empowerment. Optometry Divas gave me the tools and the community to finally take control of my financial future.”
Don’t just dream about the life you want—join a community that will help you build it.
Become a member today: OptometryDivas.com/Join
Your Action Plan
- Decide on your 30%. Set your giving, investing, and saving plan.
- Automate your wealth-building. Set up auto-debits TODAY.
- Track your journey. Celebrate every win, no matter how small.
- Join us. The Divas are ready to welcome you, and your future self will thank you.
References
- The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel
- Rich Woman by Kim Kiyosaki
- Get Good with Money: Ten Simple Steps to Becoming Financially Whole by Tiffany Aliche, “The Budgetnista”
- Smart Women Finish Rich by David Bach
Disclaimer
This blog is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as financial advice. Always consult with a licensed financial advisor, tax professional, or estate planner before making financial decisions.
