How I’d Rebuild My TFSA to $100,000

October Kick-Off:
A Simple TFSA Plan for Growth

(3 Canadian ETFs I’d Buy Before Year-End)

We’re officially in the last quarter of 2025.

Three months might not sound like much, but it’s the perfect window to take action before the year ends.

I know this from experience. In my 20s, I grew my TFSA from $0 to over $100,000. If I had to start over today with nothing, here’s exactly how I’d approach the next 3 months:

Step 1: Build a small emergency fund

I’d start by saving $500–$1,000. Not a huge number, but enough to cover things like a car repair, a phone repair, or a surprise expense, without having to sell my investments or use credit card debt.

Step 2: Grow it into a full safety net

Slowly, I’d build that up to 6 months of expenses and keep it in a high-interest savings account.

That way I’d always have a financial cushion before investing.

Step 3: Start investing in simple, low-cost ETFs

Once the safety net is set, it’s time to put the money to work.

Here’s the exact mix I’d use inside my TFSA:

• 40% VFV – Vanguard S&P 500 ETF
  (U.S. Growth: Apple, Microsoft, Nvidia, etc. in Canadian Dollars)

• 30% VDY – Vanguard Canadian High Dividend ETF
  (steady income from banks, telecoms, energy)

• 30% XEF – iShares Europe, Asia & Australia ETF
  (global diversification outside North America)

And here’s the move that makes all the difference:
I’d set up a pre-authorized contribution so money automatically invests every month. No second-guessing, no “waiting for the right time.” Just consistent progress while dollar-cost averaging.

⚡ October Mindset Reminder:

Don’t wait until January to “start fresh.” That’s procrastination in disguise.
If I was truly starting over, I’d begin today — even with just $100.

📩 Every week, I share investing tips and finance news tailored for Canadians. If you’re ready to grow your TFSA, you’re already in the right place.

Your Finance Coach,
Finance Femster