When it comes to building long-term financial security, there’s no substitute for starting early. Whether it’s setting up regular investments or seeking sound financial guidance, the earlier these habits begin, the more effective they become. And while many of us focus on these strategies for our own futures, they may be even more impactful when passed along to the next generation.

At American Trust Wealth, we’ve seen firsthand how early action—paired with consistent discipline—can create lasting advantages for families. Here’s why getting a head start with both investing and financial planning isn’t just beneficial, but essential.

Time Is a Powerful Financial Ally

One of the greatest tools available to investors is not a product or service—it’s time. The earlier you begin investing, the longer your money has to grow through the power of compounding. Compound interest, the process by which earnings generate their own earnings, accelerates wealth over time in a way that even large contributions can’t easily replicate later in life.

For example, investing just $500 per month starting at age 25 and continuing through age 65 (a total of $240,000 in contributions) could grow to approximately $1.3 million by retirement, assuming a 7% annual return. In contrast, waiting until age 35 to start investing the same $500 per month through age 65 (a total of $180,000 in contributions) would grow to around $620,000. That 10-year delay could mean retiring with less than half the savings—even though you only contributed $60,000 less.

The Case for Consistent, Periodic Investing

Periodic investing—committing to invest regularly, no matter what the market is doing—is one of the most effective strategies for long-term success. This habit removes emotion from the equation and allows you to buy into the market at a variety of prices, reducing overall risk over time. Most importantly, it creates a sense of discipline that keeps your financial future moving forward—even when life gets busy.

Financial Guidance: A Gift That Keeps Giving

Time and consistency are vital—but guidance turns good intentions into lasting strategy. Establishing a relationship with a financial advisor early in life is one of the most overlooked yet impactful financial decisions you can make. For young adults especially, the early support of a trusted advisor can be transformative.

Financial advisors do far more than manage investments. They serve as educators, accountability partners and strategic planners. The right advisor can help young investors:

• Build and follow a budget that aligns with real-world goals
• Navigate student loans, benefits packages and career transitions
• Learn smart credit habits early to avoid long-term setbacks
• Start investing with confidence—even with modest amounts

Starting this relationship early instills financial literacy, reduces anxiety and builds long-term confidence. More importantly, it gives young people someone to turn to when making high-stakes financial decisions—before costly mistakes occur. Think of it not just as advice, but as mentorship with a lifelong return on investment.

Setting the Standard for the Next Generation

If you’re already working with a financial advisor, you’re doing more than managing your own future—you’re setting a visible, powerful example. Children learn about money not just by what we say, but by what we do. When they see that financial planning is normal, approachable and valuable, they’re more likely to embrace those same habits themselves.

Bringing children or young adults into age-appropriate financial conversations—whether through casual talks, budget planning or attending meetings—can help:

• Demystify finances and investing
• Encourage open conversations about money goals and values
• Promote financial independence and responsibility

Giving your children the opportunity to connect with an advisor early ensures they’ll have a resource when it matters most—during key life transitions like their first job, buying a home or managing unexpected expenses.

Rather than starting from zero, they’ll start with knowledge, support and a proven path to follow.

It’s Never Too Early to Begin

The earlier you begin investing, planning and learning, the more powerful your results. And when you extend those habits to your children, you’re not just preparing them for financial success—you’re setting a legacy of wisdom and intentional living.

Encourage your children to start early, invest regularly and seek advice when they need it. Because financial freedom isn’t just a dream—it’s a discipline.

At American Trust Wealth, we’re here to help you and your family build financial clarity, confidence and capability—today and for generations to come.

Want to talk about starting the conversation with your children? Reach out today to learn more about our family-focused financial planning services.