Money becomes part of adult life before most people feel ready to manage it. A first paycheck arrives, a bank account becomes necessary, rent, transportation, food, subscriptions, loans, family expectations, and unexpected expenses begin competing for the same limited income. At the same time, young adults are often told that they should save more, invest early, avoid debt, build credit, increase income, and plan for retirement. Each piece of advice can sound reasonable on its own. The problem is that very little guidance explains how these pieces fit together in normal life.