My net worth hasn't grown in three years. What's holding me back?

Three years have passed. You've been earning, saving and maybe even investing.

But when you look at your net worth, the number has barely moved.

If your net worth isn't growing, the first step is understanding where your money is going and what's happening to the value of your assets and liabilities.

Start by comparing your finances

Look at your net worth three years ago and compare it with today.

Break down the changes in your savings, investments, property values and outstanding loans.

This helps you identify which areas are contributing to growth and which might be holding it back.

Five things worth investigating

1. Are you saving enough?

Your income might have increased, but have your savings increased alongside it?

2. Is debt holding you back?

Check whether your outstanding loans are reducing or whether you've taken on additional borrowing.

3. How are your investments performing?

Market movements can temporarily affect your portfolio value, even when you invest consistently.

4. Has your spending increased?

Lifestyle upgrades, major purchases or recurring expenses may be limiting how much wealth you accumulate.

5. Are asset valuations affecting your net worth?

Changes in property prices and market-linked investments can influence your overall number.

Does slow growth always mean something is wrong?

Not necessarily.

Major life events, unexpected expenses and difficult market periods can all affect net worth growth.

What's important is understanding whether the situation is temporary or reflects something you need to change.

The takeaway: Don't just track whether your net worth has increased. Understand why it has changed. That's what helps you make better financial decisions.