Half of Britons admit to having financial regrets – and some even wish they had married for money, survey finds

Whether it’s not saving for the future or going into too much debt, anyone can make financial decisions they regret.

In fact, half of Brits have financial regrets, a survey has revealed, including some who wish they had married someone with more money.

According to a study of 2,000 people by the polling firm Savanta, one in eight who admitted they had financial regrets wish they had a wealthier spouse, a figure that rises to 19 percent among people in their 70s.

The survey found that 46 percent of respondents had not transferred money to a savings account each month and 43 percent wished they had not spent money on meaningless things.

While 34 percent wanted to learn about finances at a younger age and 29 percent wanted a better-paying job or career.

Other regrets include not paying enough into a pension each month and wishing they had started receiving a pension at an earlier age.

The advice respondents would give their young people included living within their means, not spending too much, not getting into debt, and saving a certain amount each month.

Jane Nelson, chief executive of Independent Order of Oddfellows Manchester Unity, which runs investment specialist Unity Mutual, said: “The rising cost of living means more people are struggling to save money each month as they have to spend it on covering change, the day-to-day costs of living.

Money expert Clare Seal, creator of the My Frugal Year account on Instagram, suggested: “If you’re hoping to change your financial situation, it can seem like a big, daunting task, so try breaking it down into smaller, more manageable tasks.

‘Focus on habits, rather than big gestures, because these small, consistent acts are what will make a big difference over time. Even if you think you can’t afford to save enough right now to make meaningful progress toward your goals, start saving anyway.

‘Once you establish the habit of saving, you will find it easier to contribute more once your income increases or your expenses decrease. The same goes for paying off debt, contributing to a pension, or pretty much any other positive financial habit you want to start.

“Make new habits easier to maintain by automating them or finding an ‘accountability partner,’ perhaps a friend with similar goals.”