For better or worse, celebrities influence our world. From millionaires to billionaires, actors to musicians, and athletes to entrepreneurs, celebrities have their own perspectives on the role money plays in their lives — and yours.

And what they say might surprise you.

“Too many people spend money they haven’t earned, to buy things they don’t want, to impress people that they don’t like.” – Will Rogers

Gaining fame in the Great Depression, Will Rogers was an actor, humorist and social commentator with a lot to say. While he may have said this in the 1920s, the sentiment still holds up today. Only buying what you need — or what is meaningful to you — and avoiding debt whenever you can is a great way to ensure a solid financial future.

“Money is only a tool. It will take you wherever you wish, but it will not replace you as the driver.” – Ayn Rand

Ayn Rand was a Russian-American writer, philosopher and cultural critic born in 1905. While Rand was considered controversial at the time, her views on money still apply today. Money alone won’t get you far. By setting financial goals — and using your money to help move you toward the goal post — you’ll reach your life’s milestones, no matter what stage of life you’re at today.

“A nickel ain’t worth a dime anymore.” – Yogi Berra

Born in 1925, Yogi Berra was a professional baseball player also known for his unique way of speaking. His humorous phrases became known as “Yogi-isms.” This Yogi-ism seems particularly important today. With rising inflation pushing up prices on nearly everything we buy; it may feel like the money we have isn’t worth twice what it should be. But inflation has its upsides. By taking advantage of interest-bearing savings accounts, you can turn more of your nickels into dimes through the miracle of compound interest.

“First and foremost, people need to actually be aware of where they’re spending their money. It’s easy to get hyper-focused on things that aren’t really moving the needle.” – Dax Shepard

Actor Dax Shepard was referring to buying an over-priced grocery item that upset his wife, actress Kristen Bell. In Shepard’s opinion, if you focus on good budgeting and controlling big-ticket spending, you shouldn’t sweat the little luxuries that make you happy.

“I hope the way you spend your money is in line with the truth of who you are and what you care about.” – Oprah Winfrey

Talk show host, television producer, actress and philanthropist, Oprah Winfrey has done it all and earned celebrity mega-status to boot. But despite her fame, Oprah isn’t totally detached from reality. Spending money in a way that aligns with your values is a popular modern financial philosophy that ensures you always know not just what you’re buying but why you’re spending in the first place.

Intentional spending can also lead to more savings. If you want to put more money aside this year, visit our Savings Hub to find the right savings vehicle for you — and learn strategies to help you reach your goals.

"I always thought money was something just to make me happy. But I've learned that I feel better being able to help my folks, 'cause we never had nothing. So just to see them excited about my career is more of a blessing than me actually having it for myself." – Kendrick Lamar

Rapper Kendrick Lamar has a lot to say about life. He may be talking about his own family here, but the sentiment is universal. Using your success to lift the people you love the most can be far more rewarding than anything you could buy.

"Money can't buy you happiness, but it can buy you a yacht big enough to pull up right alongside it." – David Lee Roth

Infamous musician David Lee Roth weighed in on the age-old debate: Can money really buy happiness? While most people agree money can’t buy happiness, it isn’t surprising Roth would have his own hilarious rockstar take on the matter.

Celebrities may be surprisingly insightful (or totally outrageous) when it comes to weighing in on life’s big matters, but they’re definitely not financial experts. At Spectrum Credit Union, we’re focused on helping our members achieve financial success. Check out Spectrum Credit Union’s monthly webinars for reliable guidance and helpful financial literacy education. You can also stop at your local branch (or give us a call at 800-232-8101) for financial guidance.

Whatever your financial goals are, we’re here to help you reach them.