If you’ve watched Squid Game, chances are the haunting melody of “Red Light, Green Light” still gives you chills. The high-stakes children’s game became a nail-biting spectacle where a single misstep could mean elimination—literally. While most of us won’t face life-or-death situations in our daily lives, the metaphor resonates deeply when we think about our financial habits. 

Bad financial habits might not knock you out in one go, but they can stealthily lead to long-term financial ruin. The good news? Just like in the game, knowing when to stop and when to go can be a game-changer. Let’s dive into how lessons from Squid Game can help us hit the brakes on bad financial habits and steer toward a brighter financial future. 

Identifying Your Financial Red Lights 

In Squid Game, contestants had to freeze in their tracks to avoid disaster. Financially speaking, “red lights” are those warning signs that tell us we’re heading in the wrong direction. Here are some common culprits: 

  • Impulse Buying: Ever bought something during a flash sale that you didn’t even need? Yep, that’s a classic red light moment. 
  • Subscription Overload: Gym memberships, streaming services, monthly meal kits—do you even use them all? 
  • Living Beyond Your Means: Keeping up with the Joneses (or your Instagram feed) by maxing out your credit card. 
  • Neglecting Savings: Skipping that rainy-day fund for the “I’ll start next month” mindset. 
  • FOMO Investments: Jumping into trendy stocks or cryptocurrencies without doing your homework. 

In the game, stopping in time was crucial. Financially, recognizing and addressing these bad financial habits before they spiral is just as important. Pause and ask yourself, “Do I really need this?” If not, it’s time to freeze and rethink. 

Common Green Light Traps 

Green lights symbolize progress, but they can also lead to reckless behavior if you’re not mindful. In Squid Game, contestants often rushed forward blindly, ignoring potential risks. Similarly, some financial habits that feel like progress may actually backfire: 

  • Over-rewarding Yourself: Treating yourself is important, but constant splurging in the name of self-care can drain your wallet. 
  • Chasing Discounts: Buying something just because it’s on sale isn’t saving—it’s spending. 
  • Overspending on Goals: Saving for a dream vacation? Don’t drain your emergency fund in the process. 

Being mindful of when to stop and avoiding money mistakes—even during “green light” moments—is key. It’s all about balance. 

How to Change Bad Financial Habits by Creating Your Own Financial Survival Strategy 

In Squid Game, teamwork and strategy were often the difference between survival and elimination. When it comes to money, having a game plan is just as vital. Here’s how you can create your financial survival strategy to get away from bad financial habits:

  1. Track Your Expenses: Knowing where your money is going is the first step to controlling it. Apps like Mint or YNAB make this easy. 
  2. Set SMART Goals: Make your financial goals Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-bound. For instance, aim to save $500 in three months for an emergency fund. 
  3. Automate Savings: Set up automatic transfers to your savings account.  
  4. Build a Budget: Whether it’s for bills, savings, or fun, budgeting is like planning your next move in the game. 
  5. Learn and Adjust: Not every strategy will work perfectly. Review your finances monthly and tweak as needed. 

Building Better Money Habits 

Bad financial habits can feel like quicksand, pulling you deeper before you realize it. But the good news? You can replace them with healthier ones. Here’s how: 

  • Practice Mindful Spending: Before making a purchase, pause and ask, “Will this add value to my life?” 
  • Use the 24-Hour Rule: Wait a day before buying anything non-essential. Often, the urge to splurge fades. 
  • Start Small: If saving feels overwhelming, start with just $1 a day. Small wins build momentum. 

Platforms like The Panel Station can also help. By completing surveys, you earn points that translate into tangible rewards like gift cards or cash. It’s a great way to reinforce the habit of working toward a goal while reaping real benefits. 

Lessons from Squid Game: Strategies for Financial Survival 

What can we learn from Squid Game to win the financial game? Here are three standout lessons: 

  1. Teamwork Pays Off: In the tug-of-war game, strategy and collaboration saved the day. Financially, this means involving your family in budgeting or consulting a financial advisor. 
  2. Avoid Risky Moves: The glass bridge game taught us the dangers of reckless decisions. Similarly, avoid high-risk investments or taking on debt without a clear repayment plan. 
  3. Think Long-Term: Contestants who planned ahead often fared better. When it comes to money, the same applies—think about the long-term impact of today’s decisions. 

Real-Life Applications: Turning Theory into Action 

When you’re at a coffee shop, debating whether to splurge on a $6 latte, instead of giving in, you use the money to boost your savings. Or maybe you’re tempted by a trendy gadget on sale—use the 24-hour rule, and chances are you’ll realize you don’t really need it. 

Practical tools like budgeting apps or financial literacy platforms can make these choices easier. And if you’re looking for a fun way to earn while you learn, platforms like The Panel Station turn surveys into rewards, making financial discipline more engaging. 

Winning Your Financial Game 

Life might not be as intense as Squid Game, but bad financial habits can feel just as high-stakes. The key is recognizing your “red lights” and embracing the “green lights” of good habits. By being mindful, strategic, consistent, and cultivating healthy financial habits, you can turn your finances into a game you’re destined to win. Remember: It’s never too late to hit the brakes on bad financial habits and start building a future you’re proud of. Ready, set, go!