Nice to meet you! I’m Mitsu, the voice behind “Real Money Journal from Your 50s” 📘

Through main job, index investment, and diligent household budgeting, I’ve reached a personal milestone—building 100 million yen in assets.

I’ve worked in banking for 30 years, including expatriate in overseas, but I haven’t done anything extraordinary.

This blog is all about sharing the journey of how even an ordinary office worker can steadily build wealth.

🔹 About Me

I’m 52 years old, with three decades of experience in banking.

I live with my wife and two children, and I’m still working full-time while preparing for a future as a freelancer.

Growing up, I moved schools often due to my father’s job transfers. I was passionate about baseball, though sometimes I wish I’d read more books back then.

Still, I believe “the moment you realize something is important is the moment to start,” and I continue learning every day.

🔹 My Relationship with Money

My parents sent all three of us kids to private universities, which taught me the true value of money.

For the past four years, I’ve been building my portfolio with a focus on index funds and Japanese government bonds. I’m also exploring high-dividend stocks.

I’ve always loved working with numbers and creating cash flow spreadsheets—something that’s served me well in my 30 years as a banker.

I use those strengths to share practical tips for building wealth in your 50s, along with news and book recommendations 📊📚

🔹 Habits That Helped Me Build Wealth in My 50s

Here are some of the habits I’ve developed to support my financial journey.

Reaching 100 million yen in assets has shown me the power of daily consistency:

✅ Online banks & securities (Rakuten/SBI)
✅ Visualizing finances with NISA & Money Forward
✅ Streamlining bank accounts & credit cards
✅ Using 1Password & a personal PC
✅ Carrying a water bottle & rice balls—no convenience stores or vending machines
✅ Hometown tax donations & medical expense deductions
✅ Reviewing subscriptions
✅ Walking, strength training, reading, and cash flow tracking
✅ Budget SIM & regular index investment
✅ Selling unused items on Mercari
✅ Reading during commutes & waking up early
✅ Dental cleanings & mouthguards
✅ Staying organized & commuting in sneakers
✅ Saying no to unnecessary social obligations & drinking parties
✅ No transmission fee

🔹 My Goals Moving Forward

After 10 years of working abroad, I’ve come to treasure time with family and loved ones more than anything.

I’ve lost interest in material things—cars are just for getting around, and as long as our home is comfortable, that’s enough.

Even with a decent amount of assets, my lifestyle hasn’t changed much. I still bring a water bottle and rice balls to work.

What brings me joy now is making others happy.

My motto going forward is: “Stay active for life and bring happiness to those around me.” I want to keep building a positive cycle of learning → work → investing → financial well-being.