Kiersten Brown, Author at Clever Girl Finance Empowering women to achieve financial success. Sat, 22 Jun 2024 16:06:14 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/cropped-Favicon-06-12-400x400.png Kiersten Brown, Author at Clever Girl Finance 32 32 7 Solid Prayers For Financial Breakthrough https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/prayers-for-financial-breakthrough/ https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/prayers-for-financial-breakthrough/#respond Fri, 25 Aug 2023 17:39:41 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=57500 […]

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Prayers for financial breakthrough can be a powerful way to improve your financial situation. Talking to God about money may be different or new for you. But not to worry, we have 7 prayer examples you can use during financial hardship.

Prayers for financial breakthrough

Like budgeting and saving money, prayer can be a powerful tool for financial success. 

By reciting prayers and scriptures for financial breakthrough, you can start to feel more secure with your finances. But first, let’s discuss more about how prayer can help you in your financial situation. 

How prayer can help you achieve your financial goals

Prayer is powerful but not the same as asking a genie to grant you three wishes.

However, with consistent prayer combined with taking intentional action, you can eventually reach financial success.

Helps keep you focused

Repeating prayers for financial breakthrough will help keep your mind focused on what you want.

I find that whether I pray for extra money or to pay off credit card debt, by repeating what I desire through prayer, my mind begins to prioritize what I want.

Causes you to stop worrying about money

Prayer can help relieve anxiety and fear. The act of praying fills you with hope.

When you pray about your financial situation, you trust you will be guided in the right direction. You know that by praying, God takes care of what you desire. 

Clarifies your financial goals

Prayer usually involves asking for or reflecting on specific things. It’s easy to ask for more money, but the most powerful prayers are specific.

Using prayers for financial breakthrough helps you get clear on what you want to achieve with your money. 

What to include in your prayer

Whether you’re new to prayer or pray all the time, here is what you can include in your prayers to make them more potent. 

Acknowledge God

No matter your situation or hardships, it’s essential to acknowledge the power of God. God is still providing whether you’re trying to find out how to avoid overdraft fees or you didn’t get paid as much as you’d like.

When you acknowledge God’s presence and power, you are showing that you trust him to provide. 

Express gratitude

Research shows that gratitude can improve your relationships and make you feel happier. Therefore, gratitude in prayer is essential even when things aren’t going your way.

For instance, perhaps my car is run down, and my mattress has some springs popping out; most people have something to complain about. But if I only focus on what’s wrong in my life, I’ll fail to see what’s good.

Your life may not be perfect right now, but there are still many things to be grateful for. In your prayer, make sure to thank God for the things he’s helped provide for you. When you express your gratitude, you show God that you appreciate what you have now and what he’ll give you in the future. 

As it says in James 1.17, ” Every good and perfect gift is from above.

Ask for what you desire

One of the most critical parts of the prayer is to ask for what you want.

However, it can feel uncomfortable doing this. Perhaps you feel like you are being selfish or greedy, but as it says in Matthew 7:7, “Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.”

Whether you want financial stability, to build wealth, money to pay your bills, or extra money to take a vacation, it’s okay to ask the Lord for money. Express your intention.

For instance, ask God to help you build wealth to provide a safety net for your children. Or ask God to help you eliminate your debt so you learn how to save money.

Thank the Lord for delivering

When finishing your prayer, it’s best to end with gratitude. You are thanking God for not only listening to your prayers but for answering them as well.

When you thank him for delivering what you desire before what you want arrives, it shows faith. And the more you have faith, the less you’ll have self-doubt and worry. 

Additionally, by thanking God in advance, it puts you in the mindset that the money you desire is on its way, helping you switch your scarcity mindset to an abundant mindset

7 Examples of prayers for financial success

Now that you see the benefits of prayers for financial breakthrough, here are some examples of different prayers you can use in your financial situation. 

Additionally, we’ve provided some scriptures for financial breakthrough to help amp up your prayers.

1. Example of prayer for better money management

Do you find yourself overspending or relying too much on your credit cards? Maybe you’re having trouble saving. If so, you can use this prayer for how to manage your money

Dear Lord,

I humbly come before your good graces. Thank you for providing me with a stable job with a consistent income.

Please help me with my money management. Help me prioritize my finances and also make better decisions with my money.

Thank you for answering my prayers.

Amen.

Scripture: Suppose one of you wants to build a tower. Won’t you first sit down and estimate the cost to see if you have enough money to complete it? For if you lay the foundation and are not able to finish it, everyone who sees it will ridicule you, saying, ‘This person began to build and wasn’t able to finish. Luke 14:28 – 30

2. Prayer example for financial stability

Financial stability is the foundation for building wealth and better money management. Here is how you can use prayer to become financially stable. 

Dear Lord,

I come humbly before you to seek your guidance and help. First, thank you for being open to my prayers as I ask for your help in creating financial stability. I appreciate the resources and income you have provided for me, and I pray that you guide me in making better financial decisions with my money.

I pray for a steady flow of income and that you provide me with the wisdom to manage it well.

By granting me financial stability, I can provide a better life for myself, my family, and my loved ones. With a financially stable life, I can feel secure and confident with my money, meet my needs, and give to those who have less than myself. 

Thank you for answering my prayer.

Amen.

Scripture:The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.” Proverbs 21:5

3. Idea for prayer for getting out of debt

Prayers for financial breakthrough can also work when you want to know how to pay off credit card debt fast.

Whether temptation or misfortune led you to debt, paying back the money you owe as soon as possible is essential. Here is a prayer to help you pay back what you owe.

Dear God,

I pray to you today, asking for your help. I admit to borrowing more money than I could pay back and now seek your guidance to pay my debts and achieve financial freedom. As Proverbs 21:5 states, “The plans of the diligent lead to profit as surely as haste leads to poverty.”

Please forgive me for the financial shortcuts I have taken that have led me into debt. I come before you now, ready to change. I am willing to plan and work hard to get myself out of debt. Thank you for showing me the way and helping me to stay disciplined and focused. 

Amen.

Scripture:Let no debt remain outstanding, except the continuing debt to love one another, for whoever loves others has fulfilled the law.” Romans 13:8

4. Example of prayer to help build wealth

Prayers for financial breakthrough can be applied to building wealth. It might feel uncomfortable, or you may feel greedy if you pray for wealth.

However, building wealth means you can provide for others, give back to the church, and live a life with less worry. Try one of these prayers for financial breakthroughs and building wealth. 

Dear Lord,

I want to thank you for the abundance you’ve provided for me in my life. Thank you for the income, resources, and money you gave me through various means. I ask you from a place of humility to help me build up the abundance you have provided.

Please help me to lead a life of prosperity through building wealth. And with this wealth, I can better preach your word and support the church and others in need. 

As you help me to build my wealth, I know you will guide me to make the right financial decisions.

Amen.

Scripture:Wealth and riches are in his house, and his righteousness endures forever.” Psalm 112:3 

5. Prayer idea for when you’re worrying about money

Everyone worries about money at some point in time, even the uber-wealthy.

However, worrying about money never made anyone richer. If you feel overwhelmed with worry and fear, you can turn to prayers for a financial breakthrough and learn how to stop worrying about money.

Whether you’re concerned about paying your bills or having enough money, this prayer can help ease your stress. 

Dear God,

I come to you seeking peace from my worry about money. As Psalm 55:22 says, “Cast your cares on God, and he’ll sustain you.” I thank you for the times you have provided for me in the past, and I know that you will continue to in the present and the future. 

I trust you will resolve my money situation and provide me with what I need. My focus has shifted from worry to the current blessings in my life. My faith in you is unwavering.

Amen.

Scripture:This is why I tell you: do not be worried about the food and drink you need to stay alive or about clothes for your body. After all, isn’t life worth more than food? And isn’t the body worth more than clothes? Look at the birds: they do not plant seeds, gather a harvest, and put it in barns, yet your heavenly Father takes care of them! Aren’t you worth much more than birds? ” — Matthew 6:25-26

6. Prayer example for financial miracles

Miracles happen daily, and chances are you’ve experienced some miracles in your lifetime.

Have you ever reached the gas station when your tank was empty? Miracle!

Or perhaps you lost your wallet and a stranger returned it to you, with everything in it. Miracle!

With the unpredictability of life, everyone can use a miracle, and here’s the prayer for one. 

Dear Lord,

Thank you for the miracles you’ve provided for me in the past. I know your ability to perform the unimaginable as I’ve witnessed it in my life many times. I come before you today humbly asking for a financial miracle.

Due to unexpected experiences, I need a miracle to help me through this delicate financial situation. Although I don’t know how things will come together, I trust you are taking care of it. I know a miracle will occur at just the right moment.

Thank you for continuously performing miracles in my life.

Amen.

Scripture: Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you.”Matthew 7:7

7. Thoughts for prayer to find employment

Have you recently lost your job, or are you looking for a new one? Maybe you need to find a new job that is more suitable to your needs. Here is a prayer to help you with your employment search.

Dear God,

I come before you to ask for your assistance in finding employment. Please guide me in finding work that will allow me to use my skills to help others and be fairly compensated so that I can provide for myself and others. 

I know that you have the ideal job waiting for me. As you lead me to employment, I will stay open to your guidance. 

Thank you for helping me find employment.

Amen.

Scripture:  “And my God will meet all your needs according to the riches of his glory in Christ Jesus.” — Philippians 4:19

Expert tip: Pray daily

We often turn to prayer when we are in need. However, if we use prayer daily, we can see more financial breakthroughs. Additionally, I’ve tried reading scriptures with reviewing my finances. Also adding bible verses to my budgeting sheets.

Scriptures for financial breakthrough to pray and reflect on

The word of God has messages of encouragement and guidance. Use these scriptures to reflect on or add to your prayers.

Consider the ravens: they neither sow nor reap, they have neither storehouse nor barn and yet God feeds them. Of how much more value are you than the birds!Luke 12:24

But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you.Matthew 6:33

Sovereign Lord, You made the heavens and the earth and the sea, and everything in them.Acts 4:24

What is the strongest prayer for financial breakthrough?

Prayers for a financial breakthrough are most potent when you believe in them and also take action.

Therefore, choosing and reciting a prayer that aligns with your beliefs and needs is essential. When you believe in something, it’s easier to take action to try to achieve your financial goals. You can also add scriptures for financial breakthrough to your prayers to make them more powerful.

For example, “Dear God, I kneel before you in prayer, believing in your ability to help me succeed financially. I know you will provide for me, help me make the right decisions, and relieve me from my financial turmoil. I trust you will help me pay off my debt and build wealth.” 

If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.” Matthew 21:22

What is a good prayer for financial blessings?

A good prayer for financial blessings can also be a simple one.

Something like, “Dear God, thank you for all the blessings in my life. Thank you for blessing me with excellent health, loved ones, and a safe place to rest my head every night. I come before you asking for financial blessings among the many benefits you have bestowed upon me. Please grant me economic prosperity, and I will always try to honor your name.”

As it says in Philippians 4:19, “And this same God who takes care of me will supply all your needs from his glorious riches, which have been given to us in Christ Jesus.

How do I pray to God for financial miracles?

You can pray to God for financial miracles by using prayers and scriptures for financial breakthroughs. As it says in Luke 18:27, “What is impossible with man is possible with God.”.

Therefore if you need a financial miracle, ask for one. Whether you need an extra $500 for a car repair or need money to pay rent, asking for blessings is the quickest way to get your prayers answered. Acknowledge that God is a provider and will provide for your needs. 

How do you pray for a financial breakthrough with a Bible verse?

You can pray for a financial breakthrough with a Bible verse by reciting it at the beginning or end of your prayer. If you don’t have any memorized, you can read verses from the Bible at the beginning or end of your prayer. 

After reciting Bible verses, take a moment to reflect on them. How can you apply them to your life? What significance do they have in your current situation?  

What to do after you pray?

The most important thing you can do after using prayers and scriptures for financial breakthrough is trust and take action. If you want financial stability, focus on budgeting weekly and allow God to guide you while putting together the numbers.

If you prayed to eliminate your debt, start taking action by creating a debt repayment plan, and trust God will help you choose the right one. 

It’s important to trust the prayer by taking action. Act as if your prayer has been answered. 

If you enjoyed reading about prayers for financial breakthrough, read these next!

Prayers are a powerful way to create financial change!

There is no shame in asking God for financial success. Prayers for financial breakthrough can not only help you out of difficult situations but also help you focus on being financially stable and starting a new chapter in life.

Choose a prayer from the list above or create your own based on your financial needs. Remember to commit to the prayer daily, believe, and take action. When you trust the power of prayer, your prayers for starting a new life with your money will soon be answered. 

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20 Easy One Pot Meals To Save Time And Money https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/easy-one-pot-meals/ https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/easy-one-pot-meals/#respond Fri, 16 Jun 2023 03:34:21 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=52254 […]

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Want to save money on buying food and spend less time cooking? Then one-pot meals are the answer. They are a delicious and convenient way to prepare healthy and low-cost meals. And we’ve got 20 great ideas to share with you as you create your meal plan!

Easy one pot meals

Whether you live alone or you’re looking for simple meals to prepare for the whole family, easy one-pot dinners can make your life easier. They often include simple ingredients, so you’re not wasting food, and they are easy to clean up. 

If you’re looking for simpler meal times, keep reading to learn about easy one-pot meals.

20 Easy one pot meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner

Now that you know what one-pot meals are and their advantages, let’s dive into some of the cheapest meals to make your stomach and wallet happy.

One pot meals for breakfast

One pot meals eggs

Breakfast is the day’s most important meal, yet you’ve probably skipped it a few times because you were short on time. Not to worry, many breakfast one-pot meals are easy and quick to prepare.

1. Omelets

Omelets are a great one-pot meal that gives you a hearty amount of protein to start your day. You can have a meal in minutes with a simple flip and fry.

Adding vegetables and herbs will make your omelet healthier and tastier. Spinach is a common omelet ingredient, but you can add cherry tomatoes, parsley, mushrooms, and cheddar cheese. 

2. Baked eggs in tomato sauce with kale

Baked eggs in tomato sauce with kale can brighten your mornings when you grow tired of making omelets. 

With only three main ingredients, eggs, tomato sauce, and kale, it’s a great way to use that pre-opened jar of red sauce before it goes bad.

You only need to lightly cook the kale, pour in and heat the tomato sauce, crack in the eggs, and place the saucepan in the oven to bake. And eating clean on a budget meal plan is simple with this recipe.

3. Pesto scrambled eggs

Have you ever had leftover pasta sauce you didn’t know how to use? Next time you have some leftover pesto sauce, throw it in scrambled eggs for a unique and tasty one pot meal.

Prepare your scrambled eggs how you like, and add pesto sauce as the topping. 

4. Apple-cinnamon oatmeal

Plain oatmeal isn’t the most exciting breakfast option. However, there are many ways to make oatmeal a tasty go-to meal. 

One simple way to jazz up the grain is by making apple cinnamon oatmeal. Combine the water, oatmeal, apples, cinnamon, and nutmeg, and cook them together. Once the oats are cooked and the apples are tender, enjoy the aroma of what smells like an apple pie.  

The great thing about this low-cost meal is that if you don’t finish everything you made, refrigerate it for the next day or later that week. 

5. Frittatas

One pot frittatas

The word frittata sounds fancy, but it’s basically the Italian word for fried. 

A frittata is the cousin of the omelet and the quiche. It only requires one more additional ingredient than an omelet and fewer ingredients than a quiche.

The key ingredients of a frittata are eggs, cream, vegetables, and seasonings. When preparing, you want to whisk the ingredients thoroughly. The stovetop or the oven are both great options for cooking.

However, the frittata must be placed in the boiler to cook fully.  

6. One skillet quinoa breakfast

If you need a break from oatmeal, try using quinoa for breakfast. Whether fresh or precooked, quinoa is easily prepared in a skillet.

Start with the quinoa, add your preferred milk, and cook until absorbed. Then add fruits such as bananas and berries. 

7. Double puff berry pancake

Instead of making the usual stack of pancakes, you can create one giant pancake and slice out individual pieces. 

Start by blending the pancake ingredients, then pour the mixture until it covers the entire pan. Add berry toppings of your choosing. Then once it’s cooked on one side, place the skillet into the oven until the pancake is golden brown. 

Easy one pot meals for lunch

One pot meals soup

Now that you’ve got breakfast covered, here is how to make some scrumptious one pot meals for lunch.

8. Chicken tortellini soup 

Soups, in general, make for delicious and easy one pot meals. With some broth and an assortment of vegetables, you’ll have a meal in no time.

However, if you want to advance your soup-making skills, you can try chicken tortellini soup. 

Start with a large pot; and then add oil and vegetables. Next, add chicken, followed by water and or broth. Last, you’ll add herbs and tortellini pasta. Cook until tender, and enjoy.

9. Pozole

Pozole is a traditional soup or stew dish from Mexico. It comes loaded with flavors and spices for those craving a little more kick from a soup-like dish.

Although this recipe includes many ingredients, you can conveniently cook everything in one pot.

Plus, you can make different types of pozole, such as green, red, and white. Although traditionally made with chicken or pork, you can make a vegetarian-friendly pozole. 

10. Skillet tacos

One pot skillet tacos

These are a fun twist on traditional tacos. 

You’ll cook everything in a skillet using similar ingredients to regular tacos. You can add elbow macaroni to make the meal more filling.

When everything is cooked, serve it with crushed nacho chips instead of a taco shell for added crunch.

11. One pot enchilada pasta

Enchilada pasta is a unique way to enjoy a pasta meal. Using one pot, you’ll use many of the same ingredients when making enchiladas—such as black beans, tomatoes, chill peppers, enchilada sauce, and cheese. 

With this one pot meal, you can get a scrumptious lunch in around 30 minutes.

12. Skillet lasagna

Lasagna is typically an oven dish that takes a lot of time and preparation. However, skillet lasagna is the tasty cheat code.

Start with your meat of choice and start cooking it almost to completion in a skillet. To cook a vegetarian lasagna, you can begin with tofu, vegetarian meat, or vegetables. Next, add pantry staples such as onion, garlic, and other seasonings. 

To add the lasagna element, you’ll break up the lasagna noodles to cook and add them in with the sauce—then top with cheese to finish. 

13. Rice and beans

Rice and beans are simple and low-cost ingredients that can make meals with various variations. 

White rice is often the go-to choice, however, you can experiment with brown or jasmine rice. 

And with a wide variety of bean options such as pinto, black beans, and brown beans, you can get a handful of meals with one recipe.

Easy one pot dinners

One pot meals pasta

When dinner time comes, you want something simple. And so these one pot dinners will help with making life easier for you especially if you are cooking for your family.

14. Spaghetti with tomatoes, olives, feta, and mint

Spaghetti is a classic dinner recipe that can fill you up and doesn’t cost much money. If you want to fancy your current spaghetti recipe, try adding olives, feta, and mint.

These added ingredients will give your pasta some extra flavor.

15. Lentil and bean stew

Stews are very similar to soups; however, they are chunkier and have less water. Thus a lentil and bean stew makes for an appetizing one-pot recipe.  

With the recipe, you can add lentils, beans, garbanzo beans, and chicken for an easy dinner.

16. Instant ramen noodle stir-fry

Ramen stir fry

Most college students have survived on instant ramen noodles. They are cheap and ready in minutes.
Luckily there is a healthier and tastier way to have ramen instead of directly out of the microwave.

Start with cooking chicken and vegetables in a large non-stick skillet. Add water and ramen noodles to the pan when the vegetables and chicken start cooking. After combining the ingredients, cover and cook until the noodles are tender.

17. Lemon pepper chicken with orzo

Did you know there are many easy one-pot dinners using orzo?

Orzo looks like rice, but it’s a protein-rich pasta. You can cook this meal in one pot for around 30 minutes with some chicken seasonings and selected herbs.

18. Pizza pasta bake

Pasta and pizza are the most beloved foods. If you’re longing for a pizza but don’t want to order out, then a pizza pasta bake is your solution.

You only need pasta and pizza ingredients such as mozzarella cheese, marinara sauce, sausage, and tomato. It’ll be sure to satisfy your hunger.

19. One pot teriyaki chicken and rice

With this teriyaki chicken and rice one-pot dinner, use a deep skillet to cook the chicken and the rice in the same pan.

Using long-grain or jasmine rice is also essential for faster cook times.

Start by cooking the chicken until it’s white on the outside. Then you’ll set it aside and combine water, rice, sauces, and other vegetables in the skillet. After a few moments, you’ll add the chicken back in.

Once everything is mixed, you’ll let it stew until everything is tender.

20. Mac and cheese

Mac and cheese is a favorite dish among many. Although it’s tempting to whip up some boxed mac and cheese, you can still have a quality cheesy meal with only six ingredients.

Cheddar, parmesan cheese, milk, water, and elbow pasta are your main ingredients. Other vegetables, such as broccoli, asparagus, and green beans, pair nicely with mac and cheese.

Expert tip

You can save a lot of time and money when making one pot meals.

For example, look at your ingredients and use more vegetables instead of meat to be more cost-efficient. And when you use one pot to make your whole meal, cleaning up takes less time.

What are one pot meals?

One pot meals are simplified dishes that cook all the ingredients in one pot. As a result, the components blend together to become a delicious meal.

These meals are usually less time-consuming and require fewer ingredients. As a result, you save money while grocery shopping on a budget.

What kitchen supplies do you need?

Although the word pot is in the name, you can use a pot, wok, skillet, frying pan, or baking sheet, depending on the recipe.

However, using a quality non-stick pan is essential when practicing your iron chef skills with these recipes. And you don’t need to spend much money on a new pan. Quality skillets can be purchased for around $40.

Are there advantages to a one pot meal?

The most significant advantage of a one pot meal is saving time and money. 

Most one pot meals can be ready in 30 minutes since they are primarily cooked on the stovetop. 

Additionally, most one pot dinners require fewer ingredients, and many are common pantry items. Therefore, you’re not spending money on extra ingredients you’ll only use once. Simultaneously, you’re helping to avoid food waste. 

Did you know that each year 119 billion pounds of food is wasted in the US?

One pot meals are a great way to utilize the food in your cabinets so you can avoid waste.

What are other ways to save on food?

If you enjoyed these money-saving one pot meals and want to stretch your dollar even further, here are other ways to save money on food.

Buy store brand vs. name brand

What’s the difference between store-brand and name-brand items? In reality, not much at all. Especially for pantry staples such as flour, salt, sugar, etc. 

Many store-brand items are made in the same factory as popular brands. Store brands are often cheaper because companies don’t spend extra money on advertising.

Look for items on the discount and sales rack

Grocery stores often discount their prices on foods close to their expiration date. Check for discounted sales racks or unique stickers with marked-down prices to start frugal grocery shopping.

Even though some foods are close to their sell-by date, they can still last a few more days in your freezer or pantry. 

Freeze and save what you don’t eat

Food waste is not only harmful to the environment but to your budget. If you buy too much food or cook more than you’re going to eat, freeze the leftover food. 

One pot meals are great items to freeze and reheat for a meal later in the week.

Enjoyed this article on one pot meals? Check out these related topics!

Use these ideas for easy, tasty, and inexpensive one pot meals!

As you can see, there are many one pot meal options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

You can prepare a meal in minutes using common pantry foods such as pasta, eggs, rice, and beans.

Remember that one pot meals are a great option if you want to live out the save money live better philosophy because they don’t require you to buy a lot of ingredients. They also help you avoid wasting food and are often quick and easy to make!

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Try A Money Saving Game! 15 Grown-Up Savings Games To Try! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/saving-game/ Mon, 08 May 2023 16:01:33 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=50339 […]

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Have you tried playing a saving game to help you spend less and save more? Saving money can be a challenge for everyone. But making a game out of it can make the process less tedious and more fun!

Saving game

Table of contents

According to Zippia.com, statistics show that most Americans have only $4,500 in savings, and 42% don't have even $1,000 in savings!

While challenging, saving money for an emergency fund or retirement can be one of the first steps in becoming financially stable.

If your account is one large purchase away from being empty, we have some money-saving games to help you save money without following a rigid system.

What are savings games?

Savings games have the objective of saving money. They allow you to be creative and resourceful and have fun while saving.

Similar to a savings challenge, a saving game can be more playful.

Additionally, you can invite family members and friends to play with you for added fun.

15 Saving games to play

If you enjoy playing games and are a little competitive, here are 15 money-saving games you can play. Choose to play by yourself or with someone you know.

1. Turn grocery shopping into a saving game

If you've ever been guilty of walking into the store to buy a few items and walking out with a cart full of unintended purchases from a shopping habit, a money-saving game will be fun yet challenging.

Grocery shopping high score

With this game, you start by making a list of store items you need. Every item on the list is worth one point. When you purchase something on your list, you gain a point. Every time you purchase something not on your list, you lose a point.

Your goal is to score high by buying only the items on your list.  You can even start a chart at home listing your high scores for each grocery store visit.

Race against the clock

Another fun game to play while food shopping is giving yourself a time limit to buy everything you need. With a time restraint, you are less likely to wander down a random aisle and pick up things you don't need.

Aim to get all the items on your list and be in line at the check-out counter before time is up.

While playing either of these games, see how many products you can switch out for their generic brand. (And also shop with the cheapest grocery list!)

2. Create your gifts instead of buying them

A creative game is to make gifts instead of buying them. Whether it's a birthday party or a co-worker's retirement party, many gift-giving celebrations can lead to spending money.

An alternative is to choose certain celebrations to give a handmade gift. Events such as anniversaries or Mother's and Father's Day provide great potential for making unique gifts.

If you're not feeling crafty but like the idea of spending less on gifts, try setting price limits on your presents. A fun money game can be searching for a thoughtful gift for less than $10.

3. Have a saving competition with friends

A friendly competition can motivate you to save and help you reach your goals.

However, a saving competition is a money game that usually works best if you have similar incomes and expenses as your friends.

To play, set a date and see who can save the most money by that date. The winner can get treated to dinner or have bragging rights.

An added benefit of this game is that it helps you and your friends to spend less money.

Instead of going out to eat, you and your friends can think of fun and inexpensive things to do on Friday night.

4. 12 months of mystery savings

If you want to stop overspending, the game 12 months of mystery savings is for you.

Start by listing 12 things you can save money on.

For example, eating out, clothes, groceries, etc. Write them out individually on pieces of paper.

Put the papers in a hat or a jar and draw one piece of paper at the beginning of the month. Whatever item you draw is what you'll focus saving money on for that month. If you pull out going out to eat, you can try only eating out once a month.

If you need ideas for your list of 12 things, US News.com lists unnecessary expenses such as data storage, streaming services, cable, and unnecessary memberships.

5. The electricity bill game

Have you been guilty of leaving a light on in a room you walked out of? Perhaps your phone charger is still plugged into the wall.

Electricity expenses can increase if you aren't conscious of your consumption. To avoid unnecessarily high costs and learn how to lower your electric bill, play the electricity bill game. Challenge yourself or your household to lower the electricity bill by five percent.

With this goal in mind, it'll be easier to remember to turn off lights or not leave the refrigerator door open.

Once you've met your goal of five percent, challenge yourself a little further and try to decrease your bill by ten percent the following month.

You can even try to decrease your bill by 20 and 30 percent.

6. Start a savings jar

Do you remember having a piggy bank when you were little? Can you recall your excitement when you smashed open your piggy bank? Almost everyone can relate to the rush of seeing how much money was inside.

The savings jar game is similar to a piggy bank. The difference is it allows you to see the money as you collect it.

To play this game, start saving money in a jar. You can choose a normal mason jar or have some fun and find a uniquely shaped jar. Try out a tequila bottle or a large water jug for more of a challenge.

If you play this game with family members or friends, start with identical jars and see who can fill theirs up the fastest.

How to fill up your jar

Depending on your goal, you can challenge yourself to fill the jar by a certain time. For instance, you can give yourself six months to stuff the jar with money.

Additionally, you can determine if you want to use your jar to collect loose change and dollars. Or you can commit to putting in a certain amount, such as $10 every week.

Using a transparent jar keeps you motivated because you can continuously see the money you're saving. Once the jar is full of cash, you get to break it open and find out how much money you saved.

7. Weekly savings game

With the weekly savings game, you can add to your funds each week.

Start by assigning a number for each week of the year. For example, for the first week of January, you'll assign the number 1. For the second week, the number 2, and you add a number for every week in the year.

Note that you can also play this game at any time. Simply start with number 1 for the week you are starting on. For the following week, assign the number 2, and so on, until you get to about fifty-two weeks.

Your objective is to save the amount of money corresponding to the week. For the first week, it's one dollar.

As the weeks' progress, you add money. When you arrive on week four, you save $4; in week 10, it's $10.

Can you play this money game all year long? Test yourself to play the game for a certain amount of weeks.

8. 52 card game

52 card game is a fun money-saving game because it brings an element of mystery to storing away your money.

You'll need a card deck to play. With the deck, you'll assign a number value for the face suites.

For instance, jacks can be $15, queens $20, kings $30, and aces $40. Choose amounts that are feasible for your budget (and don't forget to use the best budget templates).

You'll randomly draw a card from the deck at the beginning of the week. Depending on which card you draw, that's how much money you'll focus on saving.

9. No-spend game

Have you tried a no-spend challenge, where you only spend money on essential items for 30 days or more? To turn this concept into a game instead, see how many days you can go without spending any money.

For instance, start the game by going three days without spending money on unnecessary things such as alcohol, eating out, etc. Once you've successfully gotten through the first three days, add on two more days.

Every time you go a certain amount of days without spending, you tack on additional days. Your no-spend days are like winning a high score. Try to beat your previous score or go for more days without spending money.

You can play this game with family members and see who can go the most days without spending money. The first person to spend money has to do chores or make the winners a cake.

10. Bank your savings

Looking back at your shopping experiences, you'll notice you've saved a lot of money.

For instance, a $6 savings at the grocery store or using a discount code at the movie theater. Saving money on small purchases can add up.

To make this more impactful, turn these easily looked-over moments into a saving game. Every time you save through a discount or sale, put that money into your savings account or money jar.

Challenge yourself to make more discounted purchases so that way you can put more money into your savings.

For instance, you can set a goal to find as many discounted purchases as you can.

So when you go to the grocery store, check for coupons. When you go clothing shopping, check the sales rack.

Set a goal to find five discounted purchases for the month. When you hit that goal, challenge yourself to find even more savings.

11. Use a money-saving app

Sometimes saving money is easier when you don't have to think much about it. Using a money-saving app, you can easily save money with your phone.

Many apps will calculate your income and expenses to see how much you can save and automatically put those savings away each month.

Save money with the Qapital app

With the app Qapital, you can set fun and interactive rules around your money to maximize your savings.

For instance, with the Apple Health feature, you can automatically put $1 or $2 toward your savings every time you work out.

You can even set a goal to save a certain amount of money every week for the year.

Get saving reminders with the Piggy Goals app

The Piggy Goals app allows you to set money-saving goals and get notifications and reminders to help you stay on track. The app also offers visuals and graphs to keep track of your money and how it's being saved.

The app allows you to set weekly, bi-weekly, and monthly goals. When these goals are set, the app will tell you how much you need to set aside to reach your goal.

Through the app, saving money feels like a game with notifications that track your progress and help you reach your goal by a certain date.

12. Weekly $20 savings game

The $20 savings game is a fun, no-brainer game that can be played with family members and friends.

Each week your goal is to save $20. See how many weeks you can save this amount in a row. If you achieve saving for six weeks, try to beat your record and save for eight weeks.

See who can save the longest if you play with friends or family.

13. Play Monopoly

Monopoly is a game all about money.

Although the game is played with pretend money and hypothetical scenarios, it's a great way to practice managing and investing your actual money.

Pay close attention to how you use and spend your money the next time you play. Notice patterns such as overspending or making poor decisions.

By playing Monopoly, you can reflect on your own money use. Along with playing this game, it can help foster healthy conversations around money with your family.

14. No eating out game

This is a fun and simple saving game if you need to learn how to stop eating out. It involves seeing who amongst your family and friends can go the longest without eating out.

When someone gives in to temptation and eats out, they lose the game and have to cook for the other players.

15. Save your age game

The save your age game is exactly what it sounds like. Choose a month to play, and every family member has to save an amount of money equal to their age.

So if you are 36, your goal is to save $36 for the month. Likewise, if someone is 12, their goal is to save $12 a month.

With this game, you can start building saving habits with younger children.

To get the most out of this game, create a goal to save your age for six months or even a year.

Expert tip

Money-saving games can help you reach your savings goals, and there are many to choose from to suit your lifestyle. In addition to saving the amount you want, you'll also make saving rather than spending into a habit. Rewarding yourself and making sure you pick the perfect game is key to success!

Why money-saving games are a great idea

There are many money-saving techniques to choose from.

For example, you could set aside 10 percent of your monthly paycheck using the 10% rule.

While traditional methods are effective, staying consistent and motivated can also be difficult. Therefore playing a game to save money can be easier to commit to while also having other benefits.

Helps you prioritize money

Playing a game for saving can help you prioritize money in a fun way. They give you a clear objective and a way to get there; thus, saving money becomes your focus.

Save up for a large purchase

Are you dreaming of taking a week-long trip and need a vacation budget? Perhaps you want to buy a new computer or fancy air fryer? Whatever your dream purchase may be, a game for saving can help you actively put money toward that purchase.

Turn saving money into a habit

Are you struggling to meet your savings goal? Perhaps you've told yourself you'll start saving after your next paycheck, but that hasn't happened.

Saving money can be difficult, mostly because it's not a habit. When saving money becomes something you routinely do, you'll start seeing your money grow.

To overcome the struggle of saving vs. spending, try a game to help you save. Since most games are played every month or every week, you'll be storing money away regularly.

Makes saving money more fun

Money-saving games add an element of playfulness to money management. Psychologist Federica Pallavicini shared in an article on BBC.com that adults playing games helps them be more motivated and creative.

When saving money goes from a boring adult task to a fun game, you'll want to save more and more.

How to win with money-saving games

An important aspect of a game is winning. Because when you win, you save more money.

Here are two simple ways to ensure you succeed in the games you play.

Choose the right game for you

Many of these money games are fun and exciting to play. But before starting, it's important that you choose the game that is appropriate for your lifestyle and your income level.

Thus, choosing a game where the odds are in your favor is important.

Reward yourself

Winning a game for saving money feels like a reward.

However, you can also reward yourself with a little something extra without spending too much money.

For instance, if you reach your money-saving goal for the month, take some time to binge your favorite tv series. You can also reward yourself by taking a long walk or throwing an at-home dance party.

How do I save money quickly?

A game can help you to store up cash a lot faster than saving randomly. Try a couple of games at a time for even more savings!

What is a good game for couples who want to save money?

The grocery shopping game and the 52 card game are both easy ways to save, and they're even more fun if you play them as a couple.

What is the easiest game to use to save money?

If you want to save without thinking about it much, play a game using a money-saving app! It's easily accessible, and you can save with almost no effort.

More saving money articles

If you liked reading about money saving games, check out these articles:

Saving money can be fun with a saving game!

Savings games and money-saving challenges can make storing away money easier and more fun. You don't need much to get started with these games, and you can choose a game that makes sense for your lifestyle. And remember, it is possible to learn how to save money fast.

The post Try A Money Saving Game! 15 Grown-Up Savings Games To Try! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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19 Great Scholarships For Black Women https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/scholarships-for-black-women/ Thu, 23 Feb 2023 17:50:23 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=42633 […]

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Scholarships for black women

Everyone knows that college is expensive. And scholarships for black women can be helpful when you want to avoid debt or if paying for college would be a challenge.

Scholarships are essentially free money that you don't have to pay back. When you don't have to pay out of pocket or take out student loans, you're free to focus on your studies and future career.

Here is a list of 19 black women scholarships to help you pay for college without creating a mountain of student loan debt.

A list of scholarships for black women

There are plenty of opportunities out there, from scholarships for black women in STEM to law and communications. But the search can be stressful.

Not to worry, this list can help you find the information you need to pay for college! Below we list the top scholarships:

1. SPEAK UP! SCHOLARSHIP

If you're a high school junior or senior and are passionate about the field of communication, this is one of the scholarships for black women you'll want to know about.

The Speak Up scholarship awards five winners $2,000 who are involved in clubs related to communication, such as journalism, marketing, yearbook, and other related subjects.

To apply, you must submit a letter of recommendation, a 500 to 800-word answer to their writing prompt, transcripts, and an academic resume.

You can also follow the information on their website for a complete list of requirements.

2. The Agnes Jones Jackson Scholarship

The Agnes Jones Jackson Scholarship is an excellent chance for people already in college to get some expenses covered. You can be either a senior in high school or already accepted into college and have a 3.0 GPA or higher.

There are additional requirements like demonstrating financial need and showcasing your interest in pursuing a career in any field/study. This scholarship provides $2,000 towards your education.

3. The ESPN Scholarship

ESPN and the Alliance for Women in Media Foundation (AWM) offer scholarships for black women, one for an undergraduate student and one for a graduate school student.

Your degree must be in sports media to apply, and if you get it, you'll also get your writing published on the website for AWM. In addition, the two winners will receive $3,750.

4. The Jackie Robinson Foundation Scholarship

Another way to beat student loan payments is the Jackie Robinson Foundation scholarship. You can be given up to $35,000 over four years while earning a bachelor's degree.

The eligibility requirements include submitting your official SAT and/or ACT test exam scores and the college you attend must be an accredited and approved 4-year college.

Also included in the scholarship offerings are mentorship and job placement opportunities.

5. The Dr. Wynetta A. Frazier Sister-to-Sister Scholarship

The Dr. Wynetta A. Frazier Sister-to-Sister scholarship is perfect for the black woman who had to cut her education short due to life circumstances.

You may have had to take care of a family member or needed a break for personal reasons, but you can still return to college and receive financial support of up to $500.

You must be an African American woman at least 19 years old to apply. Additionally, you must be entering college for the first time or returning to college to get this black women's scholarship.

6. The Gates Scholarship

The Gates Scholarship is a great opportunity for low-income individuals to get full tuition costs, fees, and more covered, but it's highly competitive. In fact, only 300 seniors each year are chosen.

However, winners can receive funding for the total cost of attendance, including fees, tuition, books, room and board, and transportation.

To apply, you must have a 3.3 GPA, be pursuing an undergraduate degree, and also have proof of leadership qualities.

7. Dashanna K. McNeil Memorial Scholarship

Is your dream career becoming a nurse? If so, many scholarships for black women are available for nursing students.

One such scholarship is the Dashanna K. McNeil Memorial Scholarship. It is open to all educational levels and also requires an essay for its application.

You also must plan on or be enrolled in an accredited nursing institution. Recipients can receive up to $1120.

8. @ESPDaniella Debt Grant

The @ESPDaniella Debt Grant is perfect for anyone in undergraduate or graduate studies or who has either completed or dropped out of college and can show proof of loan debt. You don't need a perfect academic background to apply for this black women scholarship.

Up to three winners will be chosen with a chance to win $1,500 each.

9. Desiree Jeana Wapples Scholarship for Young Women

The Desiree Jeana Wapples Scholarship helps high school students with some of the financial burdens of starting college. Applicants must be female high school seniors living in Virginia and have at least a 3.0 GPA.

The recipient can receive up to $500.

10. Freemont Foundation Scholarship Program

The Freemont Foundation scholarship is for high school, undergraduate, and graduate students who have shown leadership abilities while volunteering and caring for their community.

Applications are available online through their website, and those that apply must be pursuing or planning to pursue a degree in the sciences. Additional requirements include a 3.0 GPA.

Ran by the American Bar Association, the Legal Opportunity Scholarship supports minority students entering their first year of law school. A generous scholarship amount of $15,000 is meant to support students throughout their three years of law school.

As a result, this scholarship has helped over 400 students of diverse backgrounds and ethnicities pay their way through college.

To apply, you must be in or entering your first year of law school and have a GPA of 2.5 based on a 4.0 grading scale. In addition, you must be part of an ethnic or racial minority.

13. Albert W. Dent Graduate Student Scholarship

For black women who are in their last year of a college graduate program and are studying healthcare management, the Albert W. Dent Graduate Student Scholarship is for you.

The application process requires three letters of recommendation, your transcript, your current resume, an essay answering why you are pursuing your career, and more information on your financial need.

Each year 15 students receive a scholarship of $5,000, and it's one of the best scholarships for black women to look into.

14. General Scholarships from the American Library Association

The American Library Association, or ALA, has various scholarships for minorities pursuing a master's degree in library and information studies.

To be considered for an award, you must demonstrate leadership, academic excellence, and also a dedication to librarianship.

If you're interested in applying, you can do so through the ALA program website to put your hat in the running.

15. The Herbert Lehman Scholarship

The Herbert Lehman scholarship started to support African American students entering formally segregated colleges and now continues a similar mission.

As a result, every year, minorities receive financial support to continue their pursuit of higher education.

There are no GPA or SAT/ACT score requirements; however, a student's grades, community service, and financial needs are all considered. To read through their eligibility requirements, you can access their application portal.

16. International Association of Black Actuaries

The IABA scholarship supports African American undergraduate and graduate students who want to start an actuarial career.

When applying, a student's GPA and test scores contribute to the selection process. Scholarship awards can vary between $1,500 - $5,000/year, depending on where students are in their college years.

17. The Dr. Nancy Foster Scholarship Program

The Dr. Nancy Foster scholarship is for women in the early years of their master's or doctorate degrees. In addition, the program accepts applicants studying maritime archeology, oceanography, and marine biology.

Requirements include strong letters of recommendation, proof of finances, and also your research proposal that aligns with the mission of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

18. The Generation Google Scholarship

The Generation Google scholarship could support you if you're pursuing a career in computer science. It's a good option for scholarships for black women in STEM.

Open to students pursuing any level of degree in the United States or Canada. In addition, applicants must demonstrate a solid academic record, a financial need, and leadership skills.

To apply, you will fill out an application online, upload various documents such as your resume, and answer essay questions. Winners from the United States can earn up to $10,000 and up to CAD 5,000 for Canadian students.

19. Minority/Women in STEM Scholarship

Many scholarships for black women in STEM can be found on bold.org. One such scholarship, the Minority Women in STEM Scholarship, aims to support first-generational low-income students from minority backgrounds.

To apply, you must share what challenges you have overcome in order to pursue your interest in STEM.

There are five scholarship recipients, and each receives $1,000.

You can find even more scholarships by checking out the UNCF website. However, scholarships aren't the only way to pay for college.

Other places to find money for college

Although there are many scholarships for black women, you can fund your college degree in other ways.

For instance, diversity-focused funding opportunities, such as grants and tuition reimbursement programs, can help you avoid the student debt crisis and pursue your education.

Tuition reimbursement plans from an employer

Did you know that some companies will pay you to go to college? Tuition reimbursement plans are popular in many well-known companies. These types of programs are beneficial to both you and your employers.

For instance, a tech company can pay for part or all of your tuition to study computer science. You get free financial support, and they get an educated employee that will work for them in the future.

Some companies that have tuition assistance programs are:

Federal and state grants

Grants are money from the federal or local government that is for college tuition that usually doesn't have to be paid back. Grants can also come from organizations, schools, and foundations.

Popular grants to consider applying for are Federal Pell Grants if you're pursuing your bachelor's degree.

Other grants to look into are the:

Student loan forgiveness

If you've taken out loans to pay for college and have made consistent payments, you may be eligible to have the remaining balance canceled.

To see if you qualify for student loan forgiveness, you can visit the official government website as well as look into public service loan forgiveness.

Black women scholarships can help you pay for college!

Getting into college is one of the first steps to starting your dream career. The next step is paying for it, and that's where black women's scholarships come into play.

The free money programs can help you focus less on money and more on your studies.

Use the above list to find the perfect black women scholarship for you.

Remember that black women scholarships are out there. It may take time to apply, but it will pay off in the long run.

You can also apply for multiple scholarships for even more funding. If you're lucky, you may even win a scholarship that offers a full ride.

The post 19 Great Scholarships For Black Women appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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How To Store Designer Handbags https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/how-to-store-designer-handbags/ Fri, 27 Jan 2023 16:57:00 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=43148 […]

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How to store designer handbags
Image source: https://www.pinterest.com/pin/350295677279559700/

A question that every luxury bag owner must ask themselves is around how to store designer handbags. After all, Hermes, Channel, Gucci, and Prada purses aren't ordinary. They are luxury bags and these bags need to be cared for and well-maintained.

So before you toss your Louis Vuitton bag into your closet, let’s look at why you need proper luxury bag storage and how to make that happen!

Why it’s important to learn how to store designer handbags

Designer bags are expensive. Behind the name brands, handbags are highly priced because they are valuable and unique.

Similar to a car, your bag will last longer the more you take care of it. Here are some of the advantages of proper care.

 Longevity

Did you know that your designer handbags can last for years after you purchase them? Meaning your handbags can outlast some of your relationships.

Longevity also means you don’t have to keep buying new handbags every few months. No more trying to reattach the handle or sew ripped fabric. Having a handbag that can last throughout time can relieve some stress in the future.

Keep in prime condition for resale

Luxury handbags never go out of style. Therefore after two or three years if you’re ready to upgrade or move on you can resell your designer bag.

In fact, the buying and reselling of preowned designer handbags can be a great side hustle. Yet no one is going to buy a second-hand bag if it’s not in great condition.

And the best way to keep it in top shape is to learn how to store designer handbags to ensure they are ready for resale.

Avoid damage

If you want to keep your handbags in great condition, you'll want to know how to store luxury bags, so you can avoid damage.

Common damage that proper storage can avoid include stains, torn fabric, scratch marks, and mildew.

Helps create a better mentality

When you know how to store your designer purses and take care of them, it helps to create a mental shift in your brain. Your mind focuses on preserving the value of important items.

Your luxury bag is also a representation of you. It can showcase your personal style. Thus keeping it in great condition helps you to maintain the mentality that you are able to care for expensive items and make them last.

Prepping your luxury bag for storage

There are plenty of benefits to proper luxury bag storage. And the first step is prepping your bag to be stored away. You want to make sure your bag is in pristine condition before your store it.

Follow these steps to learn how to store luxury bags in the best way possible.

Wipe hardware and bag clean before storing

It’s important to first clean the outside and inside of your bag. Depending on the fabric or material of the bag you’ll want to use a special cleaner to remove any dust, dirt, or grime. Couture USA suggests the following cleaning techniques for your bag depending on the materials.

For leather handbags

Use a microfiber cloth with leather cleaner. You can also use leather cleaning wipes or fragrance-free and alcohol-free baby wipes. Be sure to only wipe gently.

For suede or fur

When it comes to how to store designer handbags made of suede or fur, using a specialty brush can help get rid of dirt and debris.

For fabric

Use a lint roller to clean the surface. In addition, you can use tweezers to remove dirt or particles left behind.

Empty out the interior of your bag

Once the outside is cleaned remember to clean the inside. Although it’s common to leave certain items in your purse for later use, some items can be harmful to the quality of your bag.

Infinite by Style Theory suggests that the following items can be damaging to your designer bag. Thus make sure they are removed before placing your bag into storage.

  • Hand sanitizer
  • Pens
  • Water bottles
  • Makeup
  • Lotion
  • Perfumes

Basically, you should empty out your bag before storage, to ensure the protection and quality of the bag.

Once your luxury bag is clean and emptied out, you’re ready for storage. The obvious thought is to place it in your closet.  Yet there are a few more details that go into how to store designer handbags.

How to store designer handbags

Now that you know how to prep your handbag for storage, here are the specifics of how to store designer handbags. By following these techniques you can keep your designer bag in top shape.

How To Store Designer Handbags

Avoid direct sunlight

It’s important to avoid direct sunlight or harsh lighting as it can affect coloration. Keeping your luxury bag away from windows is ideal. In addition, you’ll want to avoid places with harsh lighting.

Keep in a dry cool location

Your closet is ideal because it’s cool and dry and away from sunlight. However, if you live in a humid location you’ll want to regulate the temperature in your indoor storage space.

Many places that have a lot of humidity tend to leave moisture in the air. Moisture can be damaging and also cause mold and mildew.

Before you place your luxury bag in your closet, make sure to check for mold and mildew that might have grown over time. A dehumidifier can help if you have a high humidity problem.

Keep bags stuffed without distorting the shape

Unlike clothing, you can’t just fold or roll up your luxury bag to fit into a cubicle space in your closet. Instead, you want to think about preserving or maintaining the shape of your bag. After all the shape and design are some of the qualities that make your designer bag unique.

One technique is to line and stuff the inside of the bag with bubble wrap or acid-free tissue paper. By doing so, you maintain the shape without damaging the inner lining.

We highly recommend using a bag insert to maintain the inside of your bag while in use. They can even help your handbag maintain its shape when you store it.

Use bag dust covers or boxes

To preserve the shape of your bag, you may choose to store your bag in the original box or bag that it came in. If you don’t have those you can find a box that is slightly bigger than the size of your designer bag. Keep in mind that you want to bring your bags out often to air them out and check there are no issues.

Another option is to use bag dust covers. Your designer bag most likely came with a dust cover. However, if you don't have one, Amazon sells a variety of bags in different shapes and sizes to fit your specific item.

For most dust-free cloth bag covers, you’ll want to make sure to leave the straps outside of the bag. Especially if the straps are made of chains or unique material. By leaving the straps out, they won't leave imprints on the bags.

Store bags lying on the back or standing up depending on the material

Whether you use a box or a dust bag, the placement of your bag is another important element of luxury bag storage.

Make sure bags are stored lying down or standing up. For example, structured bags can be stored standing up, while bags with less structured can be stored lying down.

Avoid hanging your bags as this can distort the shape of the bag. Hanging them can also stretch out the straps.

Don't stack bags on top of each other or store them touching each other

You might think that stacking the bags or boxes with your luxury bags is a great way to save space. However, piling your boxes or bags can add additional weight and cause their shape to be altered.

The key is to not have the bags touching each other. If you decided to have your designer bag on display, then bag separation is crucial.

Having your bags too close together runs the risk of different materials and fabrics touching. When different materials come into contact, it can cause the dyes or texture of one fabric to rub off and damage the other material.

Dust storage areas often

A big part of how to store luxury bags is dusting. Whether your Chanel bags or Hermes Birkin is neatly on display or organized separately in boxes and bags, you’ll want to maintain the area around your bags.

By frequently dusting storage areas, you can minimize the chances of dust and other particles seeping into your bag.

Air out the handbags

The last step in how to store designer handbags is to give your handbags air to breathe. Take them out on occasion and fan them out. Although we mentioned this step earlier on, it's worth reiterating.

Taking your designer bags out of storage every now and then is especially important if you live in a humid environment. When airing out your bag, do so for a full 24 hours. You’ll want to air them out in a room that is air-conditioned or has plenty of airflow.

Keep your designer bag in the best condition possible with the proper storage!

Owning a new or preowned designer bag is a financial milestone. It sets you on a path of inviting more luxury. However, in order to reap the benefits you have to understand how to store designer handbags so that they last a long time.

The best way to be sure that they stay in top condition for resale is by storing them properly. Follow the tips here to ensure you are caring for your handbag correctly.

In addition, if you want to find a designer bag at a reasonable price, consider buying second-hand, or renting a luxury bag.

The post How To Store Designer Handbags appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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8 Black Minimalists To Inspire You! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/black-minimalists/ Wed, 11 Jan 2023 20:48:26 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=41980 […]

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Black minimalists

Minimalism hasn't always been the trendy lifestyle portrayed on Pinterest. In fact, some black minimalists grew up with a different understanding of this concept.

Minimalism, for many people who are part of black and brown communities, isn’t simply an enlightened lifestyle change. They grew up with it as a way of life.

However, some black women have taken to the minimalist movement and are using it as a tool of empowerment.

If you're curious about who these women are, keep reading to learn about 8 black minimalists who are joyfully living and thriving with less.

How is minimalism defined?

Minimalism isn’t a complex topic. It originated as a concept in art and design, and it’s the idea of having less. Yet, the lifestyle encompasses so much more.

Minimalists focus on making space for things that matter in life, by removing the unnecessary.

Yet the idea of limiting the items one owns isn't always a personal choice but a result of circumstances.

Black people’s history with minimalism

If you searched for an image of minimalism you’d probably see pictures of white walls and grey tables and chairs. Images of pristine places speak to the beauty of having less.

Yet minimalism isn’t always aesthetically pleasing depending on a person's socio-economic status.

Minimalism as an outcome and not a choice

Tatiana Donaldson, shares on her blog a different viewpoint. Sharing that minimalism meant barely making ends meet. She wrote in her article that at a young age, she created an essentials list.

This was a list of things she would take with her when her family had to frequently move from place to place.  An abrupt change in living was often a result of the economy and social climate at the time.

Many racial injustices, such as redlining, segregation, and Jim Crow laws prevented various black families from obtaining well-paid jobs, or home ownership.

As a result, many black communities were put into a lower socioeconomic status which influence their purchasing power.

Yet despite these challenges, there are black minimalists who have grown to a status where minimalism is a joyful option that has helped them elevate their lives.

8 Black minimalists who are living full lives

Minimalism is a practice that can look different depending on the practitioner.

Here’s how these 8 black women create joy and freedom from minimalism.

1. Danae Smith

Danae Smith This wondrous Life

Danae Smith created her blog The Wondrous Life to show the value and beauty in living a slower and simpler way of life.

She believes that there is magic and beauty in the mundane. On her blog, you can follow her posts surrounding her monthly intentions.

She also has a podcast “Let’s do coffee” that focuses on conversations around daily life.

2. Christine Platt

Christine Platt Afrominimalist

If you follow other black minimalists, then you may already know about the Afrominimalist herself, Christine Platt. Platt took on this lifestyle not wanting to conform to the mundane and colorless designs she often saw.

Instead, she created a life with less that has been influenced by the African diaspora. In her book The Afrominimalist’s Guide to Living With Less she teaches her decluttering regime, and how to let go of things that aren't adding value to your life.

For more motivation, you can also check out her TED titled You can be a minimalist, Yes You!

3. Jhánneu

JHÁNNEU

Jhánneu is a black minimalist with a YouTube channel that focuses on sustainability and productivity while also incorporating different elements of a minimalist lifestyle.

On her channel, you can find videos on how to get started with minimalism, especially for beginners. She also has videos around minimalism skincare and beauty.

4. Jessica Young

Jessica Young Minimalist Student

Jessica Young displays the concept of minimalism as something that can be applied in various aspects of life with her blog Minimal Student. In one blog post, she talks about how minimalism leads to living a happy life.

In that same post, she emphasizes how minimalism can take away the importance many people put in material things. Her blog also includes meditations and mantras around minimalism.

5. Jessica Malone

Jessica Malone Nacho Average Fro

Jessica Malone started Nacho Average Fro, a life design company that helps entrepreneurs learn how to declutter. By doing so she helps clients step into the lives they truly want.

On her blog, she tackles an important aspect of minimalism which is decluttering. Focusing on how one must declutter the mind before one can make a lasting impact through decluttering one’s space.

6. Farai Harreld

Farai Harreld

Farai Harreld is also known as the Afro Herbalist.

With a strong focus on all things natural and eco-friendly Harreld shares with her audience a range of topics including motherhood, fashion, gardening, and sustainability.

7. Yolanda V Acree

Yolanda V Acree

Yolanda V Acree can be considered a minimalism veteran and she’s been living with less for the past nine years and going strong.

For Acree, minimalism is a way to envision and create a life that is simple yet intentional. She is also another founder of the Black Minimalists.

Along with being a founder, she is also the author of the book, Mindful Simplicity: Practical Strategies for Finding Harmony in Your Home, Work, and Life. It is a guide to simplifying your life.

8. The Melanated Minimalist

The Melanated Minimalist

Lisa Shunette takes a lively approach to minimalism. She believes in living simply but not depriving yourself of certain joys and luxuries. Things such as a colorful wardrobe, having more than one type of cutlery and living with intention.

Her YouTube channel is curated with minimalist lifestyle tips and tricks to help more melanated women become minimalists. She emphasizes that there can be joy and fun in living a simple life.

How to use minimalism to enhance your financial situation

From the above list of black minimalists, you’ve probably gotten the idea of how minimalism can be life-changing. This lifestyle and state of mind can also influence finances.

Identify your core values

Starting minimalism usually starts with identifying your core values and eliminating the things that don’t align with those values. When it comes to your finances, you can apply the same technique.

If you value security and a comfortable place to live, you can start putting your money toward home ownership. If you value experiences and learning about new places, you can put more of your money towards traveling.

Put money towards experiences and less on material things

Another aspect of minimalism is having fewer things. If you're focused on not accumulating many items, you’re most likely going to spend less money trying to acquire new things.

With the minimalist state of mind, you focus on experiences and put less value on physical objects. This way instead of spending hundreds of dollars on a new iPhone you’ll put money towards things that truly make you happy, not just happy for a short period of time.

How minimalism can enhance your overall well being

More than helping you to prioritize your spending, minimalism can help you to enhance your way of life.

Less stuff can equal less stress

When you limit the things in your life to what brings you value and joy, you feel lighter and happier. No more digging through your closet trying to decide what to wear out of 47 t-shirts.

You can find what you need because what you need is not lost in a drawer somewhere under gadgets and gizmos you don’t use.

Clear the clutter in your mind and space

Have you ever felt like there was too much going on in your mind? If it’s hard to focus or think straight because of the millions of other thoughts racing in your brain, you might be experiencing mental clutter.

If you have mental clutter you probably have physical clutter. And what comes along with physical clutter is you don’t have a space to relax and focus.

Minimalism can help clear your mind and your space of the stress and frustration that clutter can bring.

More time and freedom

More stuff means more time you have to spend maintaining the stuff. Too many clothes means more time doing laundry.

A surplus of dishes means more time cleaning. More beauty products can mean more waste and longer bathroom clean-ups.

When you have less to worry about, and less to maintain you’re free to use your time how you want, instead of organizing 30 pairs of socks.

Appreciate what you have

Lastly, minimalism can help you to appreciate what you already have. Things such as the old coffee maker that might run slow but still makes good coffee. Or an older generation cellphone that fulfills all your basic needs.

There will always be something new and innovative, but that doesn’t mean what you already have isn’t good enough.

Will you give minimalism a try?

Hopefully, you’ve been inspired by this list of black minimalists and have seen that the lifestyle is adaptable to who you are and how you want to live. It’s important to remember that less is more.

Focus on surrounding yourself with people and items that bring joy and value to your life. Everything else you can leave behind. And you can take this a step further by becoming a financial minimalist with a simplified budget, as well.

The post 8 Black Minimalists To Inspire You! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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How To Successfully Plan For The Year https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/plan-for-the-year/ Sun, 11 Dec 2022 13:14:28 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=40180 […]

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Plan for the year

Making a plan for the year can be your secret weapon for success. Year planning allows you to set goals and be more prepared for the upcoming year. Imagine how good it'll feel achieving everything you set out to accomplish.

Yes, life is unpredictable and a good system can easily unravel from the complexities of life. Yet if you have goals in place, you’ll be better equipped to handle the surprises that happen.

Are you ready to have a successful year?

In this article, you'll learn how to plan your year by reflecting on the past and setting mini-goals.

In addition, you'll learn how to stay organized with your finances, career, business, relationships, and self-care for the year ahead.

Why is it important to map out each year?

When you plan for the year, you allow yourself to prioritize the most important things in your life. With a system in place, it's easier to set goals and take action to achieve those goals.

But before you break out that calendar, here are some pre-planning steps.

Planning and preparation

Organizing the next 365 days of your year requires preparation. As the quote from Thomas S. Monson says "The past is behind, learn from it. The future is ahead, prepare for it. "

Reflect first

A lot can happen in a year, which is why it’s important to look back on what you’ve learned.

Reviewing and taking into account the year that is ending, helps you paint a clear vision for the future. Here is what to focus on when you review the previous year.

Celebrate your wins

It can be easy to focus on where you want to be and forget to appreciate where you've been. Before you think about organizing your year, take a moment to celebrate your wins. No matter the size of your accomplishments, it's essential to appreciate the journey you've been on.

A great way to honor your achievements is to make a list of them. Once you've reviewed the list you can hang them up to use for motivation in the future.

Identify areas of growth

Once you’ve patted yourself on the back, now it’s time to take a more critical look at the past year.

Take time to see what things didn’t go as you thought they would. What roadblocks stood in your way from achieving your goals? What distractions stopped you from staying focused?

Keep in mind you are trying to identify your areas of growth, and not be overly critical of yourself. To help with this reflection, imagine your life as a garden. In your field of flowers and plants, there are some areas that have blossomed and some that have withered away.

Think about how you can give a little extra attention to the areas in your life that are lacking growth.

Set mini goals

Now that you have reflected on your past, it’s time to set some good goals for the future.

When setting goals it’s important to set both large and mini goals. In fact, the mini goals will help you achieve the bigger goals.

Mini goals are smaller short-term goals that are connected to your larger or long-term goals. As an example, if you want to get a new job, a mini goal could be updating your resume, or learning a new skill.

Creating mini goals helps you to create a more direct path to success.

Steps to plan your year

When figuring out how to organize your year, you can follow these simple steps for success.

1. Create time for planning

In order to successfully map out the year you need to take the time to make a plan.

Ideally, you want to set aside an hour or two to create your plan for the year. It’s important that you create this pocket of time with little to no distractions.

Put your phone on airplane mode, lock yourself in your office, or head to your local coffee shop or library. You want to decide on your goals in a place where you feel creative and productive.

Once you know when you’re going to plan, the next step is finding the right tools for your year planning.

2. Choose the correct scheduling tool

The number one tool in making a plan for the year is a calendar. With this tool, you have two main options, a physical or digital calendar.

How to organize a year with a physical calendar

Having an agenda book, or even a simple wall calendar can be very helpful if you are a tactical person. Physical calendars can help you remember important events because you have to write them down. This tool usually works best if you have a concrete schedule with little to no changes.

If you’re someone whose schedule is a little more spontaneous you’ll want to consider a digital calendar.

How to plan a year with a digital calendar

Digital calendars are very useful as they can be easily changed. They are also convenient because they can be used on your computer and mobile device.  Additionally, they can be shared with others.

There are many benefits to using a digital calendar for the year. With their additional tools such as setting reminders and alerts, you can be more aware of upcoming events.

Use both a digital and physical calendar

Depending on how your life is set up, it might be helpful to use both types of calendars.  A physical calendar can be great for personal use such as remembering birthdays, children’s sporting events, and vacations.  A digital calendar can be used for business, meetings, and conferences.

Keep in mind there will be some events that overlap on both calendars.

Other scheduling and organization tools

In addition to using a calendar, there are other software tools that can help you plan for the year. Tools such as Asana, Trello, and Monday.com can help you manage different clients and projects.

Besides these digital tools, other handy tools include creating to-do lists and timelines to help complete certain goals and assignments.

3. Create daily and weekly routines

Having a daily and weekly routine helps you to create structure in your life. As lifehack.org points out, routines take the stress out of choosing what you need to do every day. It allows you to automatically be productive and set yourself up for success.

A daily routine can consist of, having a morning routine, a self-care routine, and a nighttime routine.

Weekly routines are things you will do on a weekly or bi-weekly basis to help you achieve your goals. This can be creating a weekly exercise routine, budgeting weekly, or spending time with friends and family once a week.

Mapping out your finances for the year

If thinking about next year's finances makes your palms sweat, then creating a plan for the year can ease your anxiety. To bring you more ease, financial organization doesn’t have to be complicated. The next ideas will show you how to plan a year so your finances are in order.

Start by creating financial goals

Financial goals are just a plan to achieve something with your money. Which could be paying off debt, saving for college, creating an emergency fund, or buying a new car.

When you have your goal in mind the next step is to create mini goals. For instance, if you want to save $10,000 by the end of the year, a mini goal can be to save around $830 a month to achieve that goal.

Creating a budget calendar

A budget calendar is a way to keep your finances organized but in calendar form. In your agenda, you’ll include things such as due dates for bills, paydays, and debt payments.

With your finances added to your calendar, you’ll be prepared to make payments on time. It also helps you to better manage your money for upcoming expenses.

Plan your taxes for the year

Most people hate dealing with and even thinking about taxes until the last possible minute. Yet the avoidant strategy often leads to more stress the closer it comes to tax season. To avoid this anxiety you can think ahead.

Review taxes from the previous year

By looking at last year's taxes you can estimate what you might be paying for the coming year. If you made relatively the same as last year, you can expect to pay about the same in taxes.

If your income has dramatically increased, then you’ll want to put some extra money aside to pay for the difference.

Taxes for the new year

To stay on top of your taxes for the new year you’ll want to do an income projection. Once you know how much you'll make in the new year US Bank suggests the following:

  • Reduce your taxable income by contributing to a retirement or health savings account
  • Talk to a tax professional for extra support

These two strategies can help you reduce the amount of money you’ll have to pay in taxes.

Build an emergency fund

An emergency fund is valuable in case of loss of employment, a reduction in work hours, illnesses, or other emergencies. The recommended amount for an emergency fund is about 3 to 6 months' worth of salary.

With that number, divide it by 12 to see how much to save each month to build your emergency fund.

Create a system for paying off or managing debt

When you’re thinking about how to plan your year and manage your debt the best place to start is awareness. Make sure you know exactly how much you owe, your interest rate percentage, and your monthly payments.

With this information, you can use a debt pay-off calculator to see how long it'll take for you to pay off your debt.

If you want to pay off debt sooner, you can use different payment strategies. The snowball method is a common method that focuses on paying off the lowest amount first.

To stay on top of your debt payments, make sure to add payment due dates to your calendar. This way you'll never miss a deadline.

Planning your career goals for the year

With your finances set up your next step is to focus on your career. To do this think of a career goal that you want to reach some point in the year. This could be getting a raise, rising the ranks to a new position, or even starting a new career altogether.

With your big goal in mind, break it down into mini goals and add those mini goals to your calendar. For instance, if you want to get a raise by May, determine what you need to do weekly and monthly to achieve that goal.

If you happen to work for a large company you can also add in important company dates, such as quarterly reviews, and other major events.

Setting up your business year

For small business owners and solopreneurs, it's important that you do your business planning for the year.

Annual business planning according to Adobe.com serves as a roadmap for companies and their employees. It allows business owners to set their smaller goals to fulfill the overall mission and vision of the company.

Reflect on the previous year in business

To start off your business organizing, you’ll want to reflect on your previous year of business. Identify your business's previous achievements as well as previous issues.

Make, sure you look at various aspects of your business from sales to customer satisfaction.

Review your mission statement and values

Lastly, you’ll want to review your company's mission, vision, and core values. Yearly planning is a good time to adjust the mission and vision statement to reflect the current status of your business.

Planning relationships in the new year

How to plan your year doesn’t just focus on business and finances. It also involves preparing for major events in your life.

This includes adding birthdays, anniversaries, children’s soccer games, PTA meetings, and other events you’ll be attending in the new year.

Adding these social events to your calendar will help you to show up to these events prepared.

Organizing and scheduling your personal year

The last part is mapping out your personal year. This includes scheduling the fun aspects of your life such as vacations, holidays, and special time off.

During this time, it's crucial to not only schedule your annual trip to the Bahamas, or wherever you'd like to go, but to schedule self-care days. By setting these self-care days in your calendar you can prioritize self-care and avoid feeling burned out.

Make your year a success by thinking ahead!

With the additional responsibilities that happen at the end of the year, you may be tempted to figure things out as you go. This mentality will only come back to haunt you.

Making a schedule and goals for the year increases your chances of achieving your dreams. It also helps the coming year to be easier, more productive, and more fun.

Whether you choose to plan your year with a physical calendar or with a digital calendar remember to map out the following aspects: finances, career, business, social events, and personal time.

Keep in mind that your plan doesn’t have to be perfect. Set a good foundation with the basics, and allow some room for flexibility and spontaneity.

Remember a plan isn’t a ball and chain. Instead, a plan for the year is more like a GPS that guides you in having a successful year and helps you make positive changes in your life.

The post How To Successfully Plan For The Year appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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20 Inexpensive Thank You Gift Ideas For Any Budget https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/inexpensive-thank-you-gift-ideas/ Sun, 16 Oct 2022 13:02:33 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=36431 […]

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This article on inexpensive thank you gift ideas contains affiliate links from Amazon. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases which help us grow Clever Girl Finance! Please see our disclosures for more information.

Inexpensive thank you gift ideas

Ever wanted to tell someone thank you with more than just your words but didn’t want to break the bank to do so? This is where inexpensive thank you gift ideas come in!

Gift-giving is a unique way to show your appreciation for someone. Although a verbal thank you is always appreciated, a physical gift can better demonstrate your gratitude.

So here are 20 inexpensive gift ideas for that special someone in your life. And the great thing is that many of these items can be purchased online.

Who could use a thank you gift?

When you think of who to buy cheap thank you gifts for, think about people in your professional life.

Perhaps there is a co-worker who covered for you when you took days off. Or a secretary who helps you stay organized.

Even a mentor who helped you advance in your career would appreciate a thank you gift.

Going beyond the workspace,  inexpensive thank you gifts are great for helpful neighbors or carpool buddies.

Any person in your life who has helped you manage your day-to-day activities or made things easier for you would be the perfect person to give a gift to.

20 Inexpensive thank you gift ideas

Now that you know who to give gifts to, let’s talk about what you're going to give. Depending on the person you can get them something edible, thoughtful, or practical.

Here are 20 inexpensive thank you gift ideas that will be perfect for the people in your life.

1. Chocolate

Chocolate inexpensive thank you gifts

Very few people would refuse a box of chocolates. This is why this sweet treat is one of the most popular cheap thank you gifts.

Many chocolates can be purchased from your local candy shops. But if you need more ideas, this list not only shares the best-boxed chocolates but also gives you ideas of fancier chocolates that are sure to leave a good impression.

For example, Lindt Chocolates are a perfect gift for coworkers, spouses, and also friends.

2. Homemade banana bread

Out of all the inexpensive gift ideas, homemade banana bread is the least expensive and perhaps the most delicious.

The great thing is that it can be made with what you already have in your pantry. And don’t worry if you're not a big baker, there are tons of simple recipes to follow.

In addition, the great thing about banana bread is it can be a gift for one or many. If you want to show appreciation to your staff or a group of coworkers, a loaf of banana bread is a great expression of gratitude.

3. Fruit basket

Giving a basket full of delicious seasonal fruits is one of the go-to cheap thank you gifts. There are often premade fruit baskets are your local store.

However, if you want to be a little more creative, try visiting your local farmer's market. There you can personally pick out the selected fruits for a more personalized gift.

Fruit baskets are a great gift to leave on your neighbor's doorstep or a gift to your gardener.

4. Spice basket

Spices inexpensive thank you gifts

A spice basket is a perfect inexpensive thank-you gift for someone who enjoys cooking. Putting together this gift can consist of going on a spice hunt for exotic flavorings.

However, if you don't have much time, you can purchase premade boxes. Most boxes cost between $20 and $30.

5. Coffee and tea (one of the easiest inexpensive thank you gift ideas!)

Tea leaves inexpensive thank you gifts

Rich coffee beans or aromatic tea leaves are two inexpensive thank-you gifts that anyone would love. These gifts are not only practical but are easy to purchase when you’re short on time.

If you want to make sure these two gifts are a hit, try asking around to see what type of coffee or tea your special someone likes. So you can be sure to get them exactly what they enjoy.

Coffee gifts are often a big hit with co-workers and bosses.

6. Candles

Candles can set the mood for any environment. It can make a home feel cozy. Even lighting a candle in the office can make the space more inviting. Also, most candle lovers would admit that they can never have too many.

Because there is an abundance of candle options and they are used almost daily, they can make for the ideal inexpensive thank-you gift.

There are many places to get candles such as Target, Home Goods, and even on Amazon. Candles can also be the perfect romantic gift for your partner.

7. A handwritten note

As we know, the point of inexpensive thank-you gifts is to show appreciation by spending as little money as possible.  If you want to say thank you but have a $0 budget you can always write a handwritten thank you note.

This may seem simple and not as flashy as buying candles or coffee but, it can still be just as meaningful depending on what you write.

When composing your handwritten note first think about what you want to say before you start writing. Because the most thoughtful letters are sincere and specific.

If you want your note to be a little fancier you can write the note on special stationery or write the letter using calligraphy or another fancy lettering.

Handwritten notes are appreciated by everyone but are loved by parents and partners.

8. Frame a picture of you and the receiver

Framed picture inexpensive thank you gifts

If you are more of a visual person and less of a wordsmith, a framed picture is a great inexpensive thank-you gift.

This gift is ideal for anyone who you have shared memories with. For example, a coach that helped you train for your marathon or a photo of your mother and their grandbaby, to thank them for the extra help.

9. A photobook

To take the photo idea a little further you can create a photo book. In addition, photo books are inexpensive thank you gifts that can double as birthday and holiday gifts.

Many photobooks cost between $10 and $30 and are simple to put together. There are many programs such as photobookamerica.com, and snapfish.com that can help you design your book.

A photobook can be a memorable gift for the person you went on a road trip with or someone who helped you put on an event.

10. Personalized playlist (one of the most unique inexpensive thank you gift ideas!)

You may remember the era of mixed tapes and CDs if you were born in the 90s. Back in the day if someone recorded for you a random collection of songs you were on the top tier of friends.

Since CDs and cassette tapes are a thing of the past, you can create a personalized playlist. Although Spotify's AI does this for many people, it still can’t outdo a personal touch.

These hand-picked playlists are great for the workout buddy that has helped you stay consistent or a friend and fellow music lover.

To make these playlists special try adding a mixture of different songs. Also add songs that are special to you and the other person, songs that bring up nostalgia, and songs you know that person would enjoy. You can even throw in some podcasts into the mix.

11. Personalized mugs

A personalized mug is an inexpensive thank you gift that others will love and use.

Common personalized mugs can include someone's name or their titles such as superhero mom or best coworker.  At Gossby.com they have mugs that you can write personalized messages on, to give to your special person.

Mugs are great for coworkers, grandparents, and family members.

12. A book

Books are those inexpensive thank you gift ideas that never fail. This is because there are always an array of books to choose from and almost all books have an average price of $20 or less. A book is a great way to say thank you to a teacher or a counselor.

If you're not sure which type of book to choose you can always go with a book on financial literacy.

It's the inexpensive thank you gift that keeps on giving.

13. Compression socks or winter socks

Out of all the cheap thank you gifts, socks might not sound glamorous or appealing. Yet they are a practical and thoughtful gift for anyone in your life. Besides no one can keep up with a pair of socks for very long.

If you want to upgrade this somewhat simple gift try gifting compression socks or thick winter socks to provide more support and warmth.

Socks are always appreciated by family members young and old.

14. Reusable water bottle with filter

Water bottle inexpensive thank you gifts

Gifting a reusable water bottle with a filter is what every traveler needs and wants.  They are convenient, practical and sometimes a necessity.

So they are a great gift for the traveler in your life and one of the best inexpensive thank you gifts.

15. Passport holder

Passport holder inexpensive thank you gifts

International travel is growing and it is made possible by the use of a passport.

This is why having a passport holder that can hold a passport as well as other important cards can be an inexpensive thank-you gift that will be much appreciated by friends or family members who are always traveling.

16. Travel journal

For those that want to save memories that aren’t captured by their camera phones, a travel journal is a great gift idea. There are many travel journals that not only give you space to write but include spaces to write down the location, date, and weather.

This is an obvious gift for a friend that travels, but it can also be a gift that encourages a friend or a co-worker to take that trip.

17. Multi-USB outlet charger (most practical of the inexpensive thank you gift ideas!)

We’re all in some way attached to our devices which is why we often need to charge them.

Some of the most inconvenient travel moments are when you need to charge your tablet, cellphone, and earbuds at the same time with one outlet available. This is why a multi-USB outlet charger is one of the best inexpensive thank you gift ideas.

Your cousin or friend who is about to backpack through Europe will be very thankful for this gift!

18. Adult coloring book

Adult coloring book

Although coloring books are associated with children, adult coloring books can have many benefits for the overactive mind. These coloring books with more complex patterns, other than your Disney princesses, can be self-soothing and therapeutic.

Making them a great inexpensive thank-you gift for anyone who needs a calming activity.

19. Gratitude journal

Gratitude Journal inexpensive thank you gifts

Superstars such as Oprah, rave about the importance of gratitude. Studies have shown that showing a little bit of gratitude every day can improve your happiness and overall mental health.

Gratitude journals make for a thoughtful and useful gift for a friend, close relative or mentor.

20. Listography journal

Listography inexpensive thank you gifts

Who doesn’t like making a good list? We rely on lists to help us with our grocery shopping, and to get things done for the day.

But lists aren’t just practical, they are fun, too. With listography journals, they make list making interesting with lists for traveling, dreams, and so much more.

These journals are perfect for a secretary or personal assistant.  And they are also a handy gift for someone new to journaling.

Show your gratitude with inexpensive thank you gift ideas without breaking the bank!

Gift-giving is an act of kindness and appreciation.  Whether you are looking for a practical or creative gift, the most important thing to remember is to add a personal touch.

Take your time in choosing the right gift for the right person.

With this extensive list of inexpensive thank you gift ideas you are sure to find the perfect gift for that special person. And to be prepared for any occasion, check out these other gift ideas!

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Is A 12-Month Emergency Fund Realistic? + How To Save Yours! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/12-month-emergency-fund/ Tue, 13 Sep 2022 13:09:16 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=34599 […]

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12-month emergency fund

Have you ever thought about creating a 12-month emergency fund? Yes, the general financial advice is to have a 3 to 6-month emergency fund. But depending on your job and the current job market, having a hefty savings plan could be helpful in preventing stress in the long run.

Here’s everything you need to understand about a 12-month emergency fund, if it’s right for you, and how to get one started.

What is a 12-month emergency fund and how much money do you need?

A 12-month emergency sounds pretty straightforward, but for clarity, it’s saving enough money to cover your basic expenses for 12 months. This means saving money for essentials such as rent and groceries, and not three iced coffees a day.

If you’re an individual, you’ll want to consider your basic needs. For instance, groceries, transportation, debts, utilities, healthcare, and personal expenses that affect your quality of living.

For couples, you’ll want to look at the shared expenses. If you have a family, you want to include expenses that affect the whole family.

To find out how much you need to save for your 12-month emergency fund, you’ll need to calculate your basic expenses for the month and multiply that number by 12.

Now don’t let that number overwhelm you. But before you start thinking that saving that much money isn't necessary, here are some things to consider.

When does saving a 12-month emergency fund make sense?

A year-long emergency fund may sound over-ambitious, but here are some example situations where a 12-month emergency fund may be necessary.

If you have an unstable job

Job security isn't a luxury, nor is it guaranteed. If you're not 100 percent certain that your job won't let you go on a moment's notice, having savings may be needed.

It can take about 5 months to find a new job. This may seem like a short time, but remember that many jobs don't offer benefits until after the 90-day grace period. Meaning you may be paying out of pocket for some expenses.

If your household relies on one income

If you only have a single income coming into your household then an expanded emergency fund might make sense for you.

Since finding a job can take some time, it makes sense to have a larger buffer to buy time so you can cover your expenses while you look for a new job.

If you want to start your own business

Becoming your own boss is often a rewarding and lengthy process. Just as Rome wasn't built in a day, neither was a profitable sole-proprietor business.

Having a year's worth of savings with allow you to cover your cost of living while you build your business. And it will help you to outsource work to build your business faster.

If you have any health emergencies

Car accidents, deadly viruses, sports injuries - there are a number of unexpected things that can affect your well-being. And when these unforeseen events occur, you don't always have control of when you'll recover.

Having large savings that can not only help you cover the additional medical costs but also help you focus on healing rather than earning extra money is important.

6 steps to get started with saving a 12-month emergency fund

Saving for your 12 months of expenses will take time, dedication, and some self-discipline. It also doesn’t have to be a complicated process. Follow these six steps to grow your emergency fund.

1. Understand why having a 12-month emergency fund is important to you

If you want to have an emergency fund because it seems like a good idea, you probably won’t make it past 3 months of savings. Without a clear reason for saving, you’ll be more inclined to spend that money on a new phone or your next vacation.

To help keep you motivated and focused on your savings, ask yourself where you see yourself in 12 months.

Are you planning on switching jobs in the future? Would you like to take a sabbatical?

Having a 12-month emergency fund can help cushion a job or life transition.

Other important reasons for having extra money are to support your family or to have a safety net if you are not confident in your job security.

Whatever your reasons, it’s important that it’s realistic and true to you.

2. Determine your monthly income

Tracking your monthly income is especially important if you have more than one income stream. However, if you work a 9 to 5, there are still other income sources to consider, such as

  • Rebates
  • Cash back offers
  • Gifts
  • Tax returns
  • Selling old goods and clothes
  • Any side hustles

When you consider all these things, you may see that you are bringing in more money than you think. When you’re more conscious of the extra money coming in, you can better decide how to use it.

3. Figure out your monthly expenses

Tracking your expenses might seem to like a tedious task. However, without knowing how much you spend each month, you won’t know how much you can put away for your 12-month emergency fund.

Here are a few ways you can calculate your monthly expenses.

According to an article on smartcaptialmind.com, one way you can find your average monthly expenses is to gather all your bank and credit card statements for a 12-month period. Add the numbers up and divide by 12 to get your average.

If you don’t want to go through bank statements, you can start from scratch by simply tracking your monthly expenses by hand. Using a spreadsheet, an app, or a pen and paper, choose a month without any major events and write down every time you spend money.

If you want a better insight into your spending habits, you can divide your tracking into categories such as groceries, transportation, rent, utilities,  entertainment, etc. This way, you can see which expenses often get a majority of your income.

4. Determine how much you want to put into your 12-month emergency fund

Once you have some idea of your monthly spending habits and how much you earn, it's simple to find out how much you need to cover your basic expenses for 12 months.

To do this, add up the basic expenses for each month, or find your monthly spending average and multiply it by 12.

When you have that magic number, you’ll want to think about how much you need to put away every month to reach your goal.

Here is an example to help you out. If you earn $36,000 after taxes, you average about $3,000 a month. If your basic expenses are $2200  a month, you take that number and times it by 12 to get 26,400 which is your goal for your 12-month emergency fund.

5. Create a system for adding to your savings

Now that you know how much you need to save, the new challenge is regularly putting away money toward your emergency fund. Here are some ways to get started.

Decide on how much you want to put towards savings

When determining how much of your income you’ll put toward savings, there are many factors to consider. Some budgeting rules will advise you to put away 20 percent of your income.  However, find a number or percentage that is simple for you.

Start with a lower number, something that won’t have a heavy impact on your budget. Then as your income increases or your expenses decrease, you can start adding more.

Know when you will save

Because saving doesn’t give you instant gratification like buying a new outfit or purchasing a plane ticket, it can sometimes be the last thing you do with your money. You are not the only person in the world guilty of trying to save after they have spent most of their paycheck.

Instead, put money away as soon as you get paid. Remember putting money towards your savings is like paying yourself.

Make your savings automatic

The easiest way to accumulate your savings is to make it automatic. There are many banks that have an automatic savings feature that can automatically transfer a portion of your direct deposit into your savings.

Adjust your current budget and expenses if needed

After calculating your income and expenses, you may find that you break even, spending just as much as you earn. In this case, you may need to re-evaluate your spending budget.

You might need a new budgeting system such as the 60-30-10 budget.

Or you may need to start doing things differently to cut down on your expenses.

Either way, there is no shame if your finances aren’t perfect. Having a 12-month emergency fund can help you get them in order.

6. Decide where to save your money

The last step is deciding where you're going to save your money. You may be thinking that a regular savings account or a pile of cash underneath your mattress will do. However, there are some places to save your money that can make your earnings grow.

Open a high-yield savings account

A high-yield savings account offers you more benefits than a traditional savings account.

With a high-yield savings account, you have a higher annual percentage yield (APY) which is bank talk for earning higher interest that will help your money grow faster.

Most high-yield savings accounts offer around 20 times more APY than an average savings account. So if you want your money to grow while it’s sitting in an account, this article is a list of the top savings accounts that offer a high APY and little to no monthly fees.

Try a money market savings account

A money market account, not to be confused with a money market mutual fund, is similar to a high-yield saving account with a little more flexibility.

Money market accounts are available from the majority of banks and credit unions and are federally insured. They also offer support for more withdrawals than high yield savings but do offer limitations on how many times you can take out money.

You may need a bigger deposit to start an account, and certain accounts have varying minimums compared to a high-yield savings account.

6 ideas to save your 12-month emergency fund

Now that you understand how to start your 12-month emergency fund, you may need a little start-up cash to get the ball rolling. Check out these six ideas to help you make some extra money.

1. Start a side hustle

The term side hustle gets thrown around a lot, but in this digital age, starting a side hustle is easier than ever. It all starts with taking a look at what skills you have and seeing how you can monetize those skills.

If you need some ideas, check out the Clever Girl Finance blog post on starting a side hustle.

2. Utilize free offers

Nothing in life is free, right? But there are a number of ways to get free things, such as signing up to get free samples of products, signing up for companies' loyalty programs, and earning money while you shop.

3. Play a saving money game

Saving money can be fun. All you need to do is play a game or trick your mind into putting money away instead of spending it. Here are some ways to do that.

Keep a money-saving jar

Although savings accounts can be beneficial in the long run, sometimes it’s nice to have a daily reminder of how much you are saving. A money savings jar is a great idea.

Try finding a large jar or container to put your money in. Then challenge yourself to try to fill the jar to the top by a certain time.

It can be exciting to see your money grow every time you add to it.

Reward yourself after reaching savings milestones

Create savings milestones such as your first $100 saved or first $1,000 saved. When you hit that milestone, go celebrate in a low-cost way.

This could be binge-watching your favorite show, taking a bubble bath, or taking a day off of work. No matter what your goal is in life, it’s important to reward yourself along the way.

Take full advantage of your savings

Have you ever had a friend buy you lunch or save 20 percent on a pair of shoes?  It feels good knowing that you saved some money.

You can magnify that good feeling by actually saving the money and putting it into your account. The next time your friend buys you a coffee put the $6 you would have spent into your account or savings jar.

Don't spend your tax refund

If you usually get a big tax return each year, tax season can feel like Christmas. You finally have some extra money to get some new tires or buy new curtains.

Although the extra money can be used for a wide range of things, an easy way to get your 12- month emergency fund started is to save part or all of your tax refund.

Sell items you don’t need

Almost everyone has a junk closet or junk garage. You most likely have items in your home that are in good condition but you rarely use.

An easy way to get fast cash to put towards your 12-month emergency fund is to sell what you’re not using. There are so many apps and online marketplaces that make selling items simple and lucrative.

Start small and increase your savings over time

When it comes to a savings fund, it doesn’t always matter where you start but how you finish. If only saving $100 a month is doable for you, that’s ok.

Once your income increases or you start a side hustle, you can increase the amount you put towards your savings.

It’s important to have a 12-month emergency fund

12 months of expenses may seem like a lot of money to save, but it can be beneficial.

Having a 12-month emergency fund can support you in taking extra time off to spend with your family. It can help you handle unexpected expenses or give you the opportunity to quit your job and explore a passion project.

By remembering why you want to save,  having a high-yield or money-market saving account, and understanding your finances, you can be on your way to creating your emergency fund.

Next, find out how to make money quickly to move towards your goals faster!

The post Is A 12-Month Emergency Fund Realistic? + How To Save Yours! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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11 Tips For How To Ace An Interview https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/how-to-ace-an-interview/ Mon, 15 Aug 2022 11:30:46 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=32516 […]

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How to ace an interview

Learning how to ace an interview is no simple task. It’s more than answering a few questions and showing up well-dressed. In order to ace an interview, you need preparation, strategy, and a little bit of charm.

If you’ve got an interview that's lined up or just want to get ahead of the hiring process, here's how to ace a job interview!

Days before the interview

You might be thinking that preparing the night before will be enough. Although cramming the night before got you a passing grade in college, it won't help you ace an interview.  In order to do well with this, prepare 3-4 days in advance by following these tips.

1. Work on your resume

Your resume is the ticket to getting a job interview. Hiring managers spend an average of 6 seconds looking at a resume.

Thus it’s important to make sure yours stands out. Follow these tips to ensure your resume doesn’t get passed along.

Tailor your resume to the job

You want to ensure your resume matches the position the company is hoping to fill. Submitting your resume without tailoring it to the job is like ordering food that’s not on the menu. Recruiters will overlook your resume.

In order to craft a resume that stands out, pay close attention to the required skills listed in the job description. Whichever skills are listed that match the skills you have, include them.

For example, if a job ad states they are looking for someone detailed oriented, a team player, and organized, make sure those skills are shown on your resume.

Job recruiters are scanning resumes and looking for the skills they listed. Adjusting your resume will help you stand out.

Keep your resume to two pages or less

It’s important that you remember your resume is a summary of your work experience and education, not an autobiography. Keeping it short will help you to select the most relevant information to include.

According to Zety, for entry-level jobs, it’s best to keep your resume to one page, and for more seasoned professionals, it can be two pages maximum.

2. Read beyond the job posting and learn about the company

Imagine showing up to a surf lesson without knowing how to swim. You would seem a little unprepared. The same goes for an interview.

It’s important to know more about the company than what they wrote in the job ad. Having this knowledge shows that you understand a company's mission and shows your dedication.

In addition, the more you know about the company, the easier it will be to answer interview questions such as why you want to work with them and why you are a good fit for the job. More on how to answer those questions below.

3. Practice answering commonly asked questions and behavioral interview questions

Of course, not every interview will be the same, and there is no sure way of knowing which types of questions will be asked. However, there are usually typical questions that almost every employer will present.

Here’s how to ace an interview by practicing these commonly asked questions.

Tell me about yourself

This question may seem simple, but this interview opening question can set the tone for the entire interview when it comes to how to ace a job interview.

The key is to remember what the employers want to know. According to Novoresume.com, there's a simple formula.

They recommend focusing on your past, present, and future.

In order to incorporate all three of these, first talk about your past by mentioning relevant work experience and what you valued from those experiences.

Then focus on what you do now and your recent accomplishments. And finish off by talking about the future, as in, what you hope to accomplish.

The golden rule to help you ace an interview is to not repeat what is on your resume and focus on specific examples and accomplishments.

What are your strengths and weaknesses?

This is a common question that can be disguised as, “what would your co-workers say you’re good at, and what do you think they’d say you probably need to work on?” Or, “how would you rank yourself on a scale of 1-10 (with 10 being expert level) in these particular skills?”

Here’s how to ace an interview with a dynamic answer for this two-part question.

Strengths

Using the job post as a guideline, choose a strength that you know the recruiters are looking for. These could be leadership skills, communication, or problem-solving.

Whichever skill you choose to highlight, make sure you can give examples or tell a story of when you used that skill.

Weaknesses

No one likes talking about things they aren’t good at. A reason why employers ask this question is to see how self-aware you are and how you choose to improve upon your abilities.

For instance, if public speaking is a weakness, be honest in saying that large groups of people intimidate you. Then to complete this answer, share how you are improving upon this skill, such as taking public speaking classes or being more verbal in meetings.

Why would you be a good candidate for the position?

You’ve heard it before, and now you’ll hear it again - refer back to the job posting. Whatever they are looking for in an ideal candidate, describe yourself as that person by overlapping your experiences with the skills they seek.

Weave into your answer information you know about the company's values and mission and how you can help them fulfill that mission. And as you give a dynamic answer, make sure to keep your response to 60 seconds or less.

Answering behavior questions

The above questions are most common. However, depending on the position, you may be asked some behavioral questions. These questions are used to better understand how you would handle certain situations.

Here are some samples of commonly asked behavior questions.

  • How do you manage stress on the job?
  • Describe a situation when you had to adapt quickly to a change in priorities.
  • Tell me about a time when you led a team.

Don’t be intimated. According to interviewguys.com, there is an easy way to answer these questions. Remember the STAR method, which stands for situations, task, action, and results.

When using this method, answer the question with a specific situation, then describe the skill or task used in that situation. Continue by explaining how you took action and what the results were.

4. Update your LinkedIn profile

It may seem that simply submitting your resume is enough. However, with the growing efforts of online businesses, it’s important to have a strong online presence.

In addition, your LinkedIn gives you the opportunity to showcase skills not on your resume.

According to an article by Baylor, Scott & White Health, here are some suggestions to update your profile.

It includes updating your contact information, customizing your headline, gathering recommendations from previous colleagues and employers, creating a unique URL, uploading a professional-looking photo for your profile, and using your summary as your elevator pitch.

How to ace an interview graphic

5. Talk to previous coworkers or references

To really know how to ace an interview, you need to know how others perceive you. People that you have worked with can be vital resources for you when it comes to gaining insight into how you work.

You don’t have to mention to your current co-workers that you are interviewing for other jobs, but you can mention that you want to gain some insight and reflect on your skills as an employee.

When speaking to past co-workers, ask questions such as, what do you enjoy about working with me? How have I been helpful in completing X tasks? What would you say is one of my strengths as an employee?

Getting specific feedback with stories and details will help you to answer interview questions with ease.

And if you are wary about asking co-workers, you can ask friends and family about what qualities they appreciate most about you.

Day of the interview

The day of the interview can be exciting but also terrifying. If you’ve followed the previous advice so far, you’re nearly ready to ace the interview. Here are a few more things to remember.

6. Put yourself in the right mindset

On the day of the interview, you may have a million thoughts racing through your head.

It’s easy to start focusing on negative thoughts and filling your mind with what-ifs. Instead, put yourself in a positive and relaxed state of mind.

In order to clear your mind of self-doubt, do something physical. This can be going for a run or yoga, whatever will calm your nervous system. In addition, try repeating positive affirmations such as “ I am ready, I am worthy, I am confident.”

Having a clear mindset is the answer to how to ace a job interview.

7. Dress to impress

There is the expression that clothes don’t make the person, but they can give you an extra boost of confidence. Learn how to ace an interview by dressing to impress.

Dressing for virtual interviews

It’s easy to want to dress down for a virtual interview. After all, most cameras don’t show more than your shoulders.

However, job recruiters still notice how put together you are from the shoulders up. Simply making sure your hair is nicely combed, you have good lighting, and a clean background can give a positive impression.

Dressing for in-person interviews

When dressing for a face-to-face interview, you want to be mindful of the work environment and dress accordingly.

If it’s a business environment, you’ll want to wear more formal attire in dark colors. Think a pantsuit, or a long skirt, knee length or longer, and a blouse.

For a more casual work environment, blazers, nice shirts, and longer skirts are good options also.

8. Arrive early

Arriving early for an interview has many advantages, whether the interview is in-person or virtual. Here’s how to ace an interview by taking advantage of the extra time.

Virtual interview arrival

Siting yourself in front of your computer five to ten minutes before your interview is a great opportunity to test your technology.

Make sure the camera and microphone are working. Test the speed of your internet and make sure you have all the correct links.

In-person interview arrival

Arriving early will give you extra time to observe the work environment. You can see if workers are interacting with each other, do they look happy, etc. In addition, arriving early helps you to look professional.

9. Remember to speak professionally

By now, you know how to answer the interview questions, but here are a few things to remember.

  • Answer questions with examples.
  • Respond with straightforward answers, don’t ramble.
  • Smile and make eye contact.

10. Be sure to ask some questions at the end of the interview

It can be a little intimidating to ask questions at the end when you’re trying to ace an interview, but they could be the icing on the cake.

When you reach this point of the interview, ask questions such as:

  • How would you describe your organization’s culture?
  • What does a typical day look like in this role?
  • How do you help your staff grow professionally?

Asking questions will also help you get better insight into what it’s like working for that company.

After the interview

Now that you know how to ace a job interview, you may think that your work ends once you shake hands and wait for their call. Yet there is one more thing you can do to make you stand out from the other candidates.

11. Send a thank you letter

Sending a thoughtful and simple card saying that you appreciate the time they took to interview you shows empathy and compassion. Two skills that are important for any role.

Showing that you appreciate your interview experience can help you secure the job you’re applying for or help recruiters keep you in mind for future positions.

Leverage these tips for how to ace an interview!

As you can see, in order to ace a job interview, it takes time, preparation, and practice. When you take the time to rehearse commonly asked interview questions, dress professionally, and show confidence through making eye contact, smiling, and asking questions, you can be the ideal candidate.

Yet the most important thing to remember on how to ace an interview is to simply be yourself. Authenticity is the ultimate tool that every recruiter is looking for. They are looking for people to show their best selves and be a positive addition to the team.

And, of course, when you get hired, continually look for ways to improve and network with other professionals to grow your career!

The post 11 Tips For How To Ace An Interview appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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7 Steps For Transforming Your Relationship With Money https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/transforming-your-relationship-with-money/ Thu, 21 Jul 2022 18:44:58 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=31194 […]

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Transforming Your Relationship With Money

Transforming your relationship with money can influence almost every part of your life.

This is because your relationship with money goes beyond receiving a paycheck or paying bills. It is about how you think and feel about money, and how those thoughts and feelings contribute to how you use money.

There are even different money personalities, which makes your relationship with money unique. There's everything from savers to spenders and those who don't want to think about money at all.

Regardless, your relationship with money is important.

That said, in this article, we'll cover how you can transform your relationship with money by understanding your current relationship, setting goals and intentions for the relationship you want, and taking the steps to establish a healthy relationship with money.

Let's get into it!

Why is it crucial to have a healthy relationship with money?

Whether you've noticed it or not, you’ve already built a relationship with money. This relationship with money influenced your career choices, created certain spending habits, and even influenced where you ate for dinner.

This is why a healthy relationship with money is important as it positively impacts your interactions with money.

Having a healthy relationship with your money means understanding how money works. It means using your money to help you maintain good health, live a life with less stress, and invest in things that will support you long term.

A positive relationship is what leads to financial freedom and wellness.

What an unhealthy relationship with money can look like

Having an unhealthy relationship with money often leads to a stressful life because of poor money choices.

This can look like:

  • Maxing out credit cards
  • Avoiding managing your finances
  • Disliking or displaying anger toward financially secure people
  • Being afraid to spend money even on necessities

This poor relationship with money also affects the other relationships in your life.

For instance, finances are a big cause of divorce for many people and can cause money conflicts in families.

How a healthy relationship with money can look

When you have a healthy relationship with money everything seems to fall into place. The sun shines brighter, the birds sing a little louder, and you appreciate life more because you’re not worrying about money.

A healthy relationship with money includes:

  • Feeling good about the money you earn
  • Having a strong savings plan or emergency fund
  • Living debt free or actively paying off debt

If you have a relationship with money that could use some improvement, here’s more about transforming your relationship with money into something that is healthy and sustainable.

Steps to establishing a healthy relationship

It’s important to know that transforming your relationship with money will take time. Unfortunately, there are no shortcuts to unlearning the false beliefs about money and creating better habits. Yet, with a little time and effort, you'll start to see a difference.

1. Take an honest look at your current relationship

The first step is to really take an honest assessment and not a judgment of your current relationship with money. Remember that no matter where your relationship is, it doesn’t make you a good or bad person.

To understand your relationship, ask yourself the following questions.

  • What are my thoughts about money? Are they positive or negative?

In addition, here are some more in-depth questions to help you with transforming your relationship with money.

What are your parents’ relationships with money?

How you’ve been raised plays a big role in how you interact with money. Even if your parents didn’t teach you about money, you still learned through observing how they talked about and used money.

If your parents were extra frugal and only spent money on what was necessary,  in turn, you may have this same relationship or an opposite one.

The opposite would be a relationship where you overspend money because you didn't have certain luxuries as a child.

Are you mimicking the money relationships of those in your social circle?

Who you socialize with affects your relationship with money.

If your social group complains about money like it’s a plague, your behaviors and thoughts will begin to mirror those same negative beliefs. This can cause you to feel less optimistic and practical about money.

Your circle of influence has a bigger influence than you might realize.

Create an honest assessment of your relationship

Reflecting on your current relationship isn’t a ruling on whether you’re good or bad with money. When you’ve reflected on your current relationship, try to describe it in one or two non-judgemental statements. For example:

  • My relationship with money is one where I often worry about money.
  • In my current relationship with money, I overspend.

With a solid understanding and statement, you can take the next steps toward transforming your relationship with money.

2. Identify how you want your new relationship to be

Now is the time to leave the past in the past and focus on the future. What do you want your relationship with money to be?

Do you want your relationship to be fun yet responsible? For example, you can spend money on things you enjoy but also build savings.

When you identify this relationship, try to focus on what this relationship will look like in your life. How will your life, behaviors, and thoughts be different because of this new relationship?

How will this new relationship feel?

A simple place to start is to think about your values and make sure your relationship with money aligns with them.

3. Establish an intention or goal for your relationship

Now it’s time to zero in on your new and improved relationship and create an intention or a goal.

To do this, consider what types of outcomes you want for your new relationship.

Do you want to increase your savings? Feel confident in making more money? Or do you want to pay off debt?

Having an intention or intended outcome will help you to stay focused on building your new relationship.  It will help you change habits and create new routines that will help you to fulfill this new goal.

Some examples of financial goals are:

  • Positive habits such as paying yourself first
  • Living below your means
  • Creating a budget or a spending plan that is aligned with your values

Transforming Your Relationship With Money

4. Start setting a foundation for this new relationship

This is when you start putting steps into practice. When you think about the foundation of a house, it's the strongest part. What can be the strongest part of your new relationship?

The easiest way to start building this foundation is through education.  Understanding how money works,  how to use money, and understanding the financial structure can help with transforming your relationship with money.

Luckily, Clever Girl Finance offers hundreds of free educational courses to help you build this foundation.

5. Remember to give yourself grace

It’s important to remember that you’ve had this negative relationship for years. It’s ok if you don’t change things overnight.

The next time you think about giving yourself a hard time, try these techniques for giving yourself grace.

Forgive yourself for your past money mistakes

Even some of the wealthiest people have made mistakes with money, so you are not alone. Instead of dwelling on the mistake, forgive yourself and allow yourself to learn from the unfortunate situation.

Keep trying until you get it right

No matter if you're budgeting for the first time or trying to speak positively about money, you may not get everything right on the first attempt.  When you fall back into old habits, take note and ask yourself how you’re going to do better next time.

6. Seek professional guidance

Taking a look at happily married couples, a key to their positive relationship is marriage counseling. Similar to your relationship with money, sometimes you need a little outside help.

And when you seek help from financial experts, they can guide you to make better decisions with your money.

Professionals can help you create a plan for your money and help you to feel good about your money.

7. Celebrate your new relationship

We often celebrate other relationships in our lives, such as a new romantic partner, a new job, or becoming a parent. Why not celebrate your new relationship with money? A relationship that will indeed affect every other relationship we have in our life.

Here are some ways to celebrate:

  • Have a dance party in your house
  • Give yourself the afternoon off
  • Treat yourself to your favorite dessert
  • Visit your favorite outdoor space

How to avoid having an unhealthy relationship with money

Now that you know about transforming your relationship with money into a healthy one, let’s make sure that you can maintain this relationship. Like a romantic relationship, there is no going back to the lazy unappreciative partner.

Here is how to stay out of the cycle.

Avoid bad money habits by creating new money habits

Bad habits are always difficult to break. Instead of using your energy to try and change the bad habit, focus on creating new and better habits.

Better money habits can look like automating your savings, so you’re not waiting until you spend most of your paycheck to save.  Another new habit to incorporate is a money date.

A money date is when you dedicate a certain amount of time to go over your finances. The key to this is to make it fun.

You can get together with your friends and share a bottle of wine while you talk taxes. You can put on some music or light some candles while you review your budget.

The goal is to create habits around money that are enjoyable and easy, so you don’t think too much about doing them.

Pay attention to your thoughts and your beliefs about money

Do you think money is evil? Do you think people with a lot of money are bad? If you find yourself thinking that money is a bad thing, try on a new perspective.

Start to see the good that can be done with money. When money is in the hands of people who have good intentions, it can provide shelter, food, and resources. Money can support you in getting what you need.

When you start to change your thoughts around money use, you can see that money is a tool, and you have the power to use that tool how you want.

Spend time with people who support your healthy relationship with money

Imagine if you spend most of your time with co-workers that complain about work. In turn, you would start complaining about work and generate negative feelings toward your job. The same can apply to money.

Spend time with people who talk about growing their savings and starting a side hustle so they can be financially secure. Think about people in your life who are happy and work in environments they enjoy.

Those are often the people who have a positive relationship with money and can support you while you are transforming your relationship with money.

Remove things in your life that don’t support a healthy relationship

Like creating new habits, try eliminating things in your life that don’t support a healthy relationship with money.

This can look like switching from credit cards to using cash to stopping mindless spending. You can also stay off social media, so you aren’t tempted by influencers who are trying to persuade you to make certain purchases.

Even limiting your television viewing can be helpful when transforming your relationship with money by freeing you from the temptation of consumerism.

Relationship with money quotes: how and when to use them

If you’re needing a little support when it comes to bettering your relationship with money, here are some relationship with money quotes to keep you on the right path.

You can use these relationship with money quotes daily by reading them to yourself or writing them down frequently to keep a good mindset.

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

This relationship with money quote reminds you that you are in charge of your money, don’t let your finances be in charge of you.

“Money does not buy you happiness, but lack of money certainly buys you misery." - Daniel Kahneman

This quote reminds us that money is not the source of happiness, but it’s important to living a sustainable life. Always seek the balance between having the right amount of money to provide for your needs and enough to help you do the things that make you happy.

“Wealth is the ability to fully experience life.” - Henry David Thoreau

Wealth is not simply about being rich. It’s about taking advantage of the best things in life and living life to its fullest.

Transforming your relationship with money is achievable

With these steps, you will create a relationship with money that is healthy, supportive, and thriving. Remember that this transformation will take time.

By starting with the simple step of understanding your current relationship with money and setting the intention of how you want your relationship to be, you are setting yourself up for a major change. It’s important to stick to your goal, seek professional help when needed, and give yourself grace.

Strong relationships take time and can last you a lifetime.

You can take things a step further by reading more of our articles about money and mindset and by taking one of our free financial courses!

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11 Best Things In Life That Money Can’t Buy!  https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/best-things-in-life/ Fri, 08 Jul 2022 13:39:11 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=30168 […]

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Best things in life

It isn't talked about often enough, but the best things in life can't be purchased. Yet, sometimes in our pursuit to make more money we forget to enjoy life by doing the things that light up our souls.

Here you'll find a list of good things in life that money can't buy, plus ideas for balancing finances with other aspects of your life.

Why it’s important to find balance in the pursuit of financial wellness

A common mistake when pursuing financial freedom is waiting for the money to make us happy. We think once we get a raise we’ll be satisfied. Or when we make six figures we can travel. But waiting on these things can make us feel less content.

The issue with money and happiness

The problem is when we do become financially secure we often feel unsatisfied. We feel like something is missing. That something is our happiness.

If we keep thinking that the amount of money will make us happy, we will continue to chase larger and larger amounts. Yet it’s not the amount of money that makes us happy but how money helps enhance our lives.

When we make a balance between the best things in life and the pursuit of money, we create the life we want, not a life we settled for.

Here are some things to keep in mind to help with the balance of financial wellness and having a great life.

Have hobbies and interests outside of work

We must have interests and hobbies that take our minds off of work. Things we do for pure enjoyment such as rollerskating, hiking, or baking. Hobbies can relieve our stress and help us return to work feeling refreshed.

Spend money on things you enjoy

When we’re focused on paying off debt or wanting to make a large future purchase it’s logical to put all of our money towards necessities.

However, it’s ok if we treat ourselves as well. Spending money on buying yourself flowers and seeing a movie once a month isn’t going to break the bank.

Money is meant to not only help us live but help us enjoy the best things in life.

Focus on saving money

Having an emergency fund or a backup plan can make life easier in the long run. When we start to put a little bit of money aside monthly we can build financial security over time and have less stress in the future.

And having less stress is definitely one of the things in life that makes you feel good about yourself.

11 best things in life that are free

Here is a list of good things in life to help keep you balanced in your pursuit of financial freedom.

1. Time spent with family

Most people pursue financial success so they can provide for their families. Almost every parent wants to send their children off to a great college, or buy every toy on their child’s wish list. However, a gift doesn’t substitute for time spent with family.

Being there to support our family, being there to laugh with each other and create memories together is something that money can’t buy.

How money can increase the value of time spent with family

What money can do is help you afford a family vacation. Money allows you to rent bikes so everyone in the family can go bike riding one afternoon. Family experiences are made possible with money but cannot substitute for time spent with family.

When children or even siblings need a hug and emotional support, money won't offer them comfort.

Remember, there is no cost to quality time with family. Children cherish memories, not cash.

2. Genuine friendships

The thought that quality is better than quantity applies to friendships. Having a genuine friend is one of the best things in life. It's something that makes life fun.

It’s why almost every Disney movie stars the main character and their best friend. To get the most out of our friendships, we need to make sure our friends have the following qualities:

They are present when they are with you

Your true friends should be happy to spend time with you. Real friends aren't going to be scrolling their phones or acting bored when you get together.

They listen to you when you speak

A true friend will really listen when you talk. They'll offer advice and understanding.

They support you when you have goals and dreams

Genuine friends will support you when you tell them about your goals. They'll cheer you on and try to help you succeed.

They make your friendship a priority

Your real friends will make time to hang out with you, and they'll check up on you to see how you are. After all, genuine friendship is one of the things in life that makes you feel good about yourself.

Friends support us when we want to have a night in to save money. They support us when we want to start a new business or change careers.

Money can get us attention and admiration from some but it can’t buy us that friend who we can call at 3 am because we need someone to talk to. So cherish your true friends.

3. Unforgettable memories

Thinking back on our best childhood memories brings a smile to our faces. The reason why those memories are engrained in our minds is because of how we felt in those moments. Like the times when we felt pure joy splashing in rain puddles or climbing a tree.

Even as adults we have memories that remind us how precious life is.

Being able to reflect on these memories helps us to keep moving onward when life gets difficult.

How money affects memories

Yes, working and making money is important, but if we spend the next five years trying to reach a money goal and we don’t have time to enjoy life, we’re going to look back with regret.

Money will always be there but the opportunity to make lasting memories may not. After all, cherished memories are one of the things that makes you feel good about yourself.

4. Good health

Health is essential and should be a high priority.

When our bodies are healthy, hydrated, and nutritious we in turn feel good. A healthy body is energized, focused, and ready to take on the challenges of the day and do well with what needs to be done.

When our health is poor, everything in our lives tends to suffer. We have less energy to work. We don’t feel the motivation to spend time with loved ones or participate in hobbies we enjoy.

Not to mention treatments for severe illnesses and medications can be very expensive and cause us financial distress.

Money and health

Although we can’t go to the store and pick up a box of good cholesterol, we can make sure that our money goes towards things that help increase or maintain good health.

We can do this by putting our money towards buying quality foods, taking fitness classes, and getting routine check-ups.

5. Confidence

Confidence is something that affects every aspect of life. It can help us get the job we want or help us become great leaders.

When we lack confidence it can be easy to fake it. This can look like buying fancy clothes or expensive gadgets to give off the impression that we’re confident. But confidence cannot be created with money.

But real confidence is shown in how we speak, act and carry ourselves. We should strive to have this kind of confidence where we own who we are instead of pretending.

How to build confidence

Building true confidence takes time and can be built with practice. When we start to pay attention to the compliments we often receive or the help we give others, we start to notice the things we are good at.

And when we notice our abilities we start to feel a sense of accomplishment, self-assurance, and pride that translates into more confidence.

6. Purpose

Everyone was put on the earth to fulfill a certain purpose, yet figuring out that purpose is not easy. First, we must understand our unique talents and skills, then we have to figure out how to use them.

Having a purpose means we have this innate drive, this fire inside of us to create, lead, design, and use our gifts to make an impact on this world.

Your purpose and work

With the hustle culture, it can be easy to confuse our purpose with making money. However, money can be a by-product of living our purpose. What this can look like, is finding a career that focuses on things we are curious about or that excites us.

Alternatively, we can have a job that allows us to pursue our purpose in other areas of life. You can use the money you make to help others and do things you love.

7. Wisdom

Wisdom is one of those things that is difficult to explain, but it’s deemed important. Some say it comes with age and time. Others say it comes from experience.

One thing is for sure, it doesn’t always come with money. This is why many of us have made the mistake of overspending or making poor financial choices.

What is wisdom

Wisdom is having an internal compass of knowing what to do. When there are hard decisions to make wisdom chooses the options that give us the best possible outcome. When we become wise we can make better decisions for ourselves, especially when it comes to money.

Being wise with our money means we know how to spend it, we know how to invest it and we know what to do with our money that will bring us the best results.

It's also important to be a wise person by paying attention to our words and not being in a hurry to act.

The more we become aware of ourselves and the world around us, the wiser we become. Wisdom is one of the things in life that makes you feel good about yourself and helps you get the most from life.

8. Joy

Joy is being more than happy. It’s the ability to find peace and happiness when life is less than perfect. It is about being fully present at the moment and not letting ourselves get distracted by worry and stress.

Joy helps us to see the light at the end of the tunnel when we feel like we’ve been in the dark.

Feelings and joy

Joy is less about what we do and more about how we feel. It’s the sensation of the sun shining on our skin. Or the smile that appears on our faces when we talk to a good friend.

Although we may feel happy when we receive money, joy is a constant feeling that can't be changed depending on the number that's in our bank account.

9. Peace of mind

There is a misconception that all our problems will go away, and all our worrying will stop once we have more money. Of course with more money you can do more things, pay off debt and have enough money for an appetizer, an entree, and a dessert when you go out to eat.

But having more money is not a substitute for peace of mind. Rather, making good choices with your money will lead to feeling more peaceful.

How to use money to encourage peace of mind

What often happens when we get more money is we spend more money. This is okay if we are mindful of how we spend money. More money can be part of acquiring peace of mind if we have our finances in order.

We can gain peace of mind with our money by having a plan or a budget for money. Knowing where our money will go every month can relieve stress and break negative spending habits.

10. The satisfaction of creating

We all are creators. Every one of us has started with an idea and made it into something we could see, touch, smell or hear.

Whether we baked a cake from scratch, created a new song, or created a human being, there is something special about turning an idea into a reality.

Practice creating

We must make creation a regular practice. Whether we create a new dish, a new dance step, or even a new friendship, when creating something, we make life a joyful experience.

Money can give us the tools to create something but ultimately it’s up to us to make it happen.

11. Laughter

Laughter is supposed to be the very best medicine and it is in so many ways. It relieves stress and can make a bad day feel lighter.

It allows us to connect and create bonds with people in our lives and is one of the simple pleasures in life.

How to laugh more

The best things about laughter are that it’s free, and you can laugh as often as you want. Money doesn't buy laughter; you have to notice the funny things in life.

If you need to laugh you can call the friend who's known as the jokester of the group. You can reach out to that uncle that always has something crazy and funny to say. Even googling funny cat videos is sure to get your cheeks burning from laughing too much.

Why the best things in life are more important than money!

Time spent with friends and family, making lasting memories, and laughter, are all part of creating a joyful experience in life.

By focusing on obtaining wisdom, peace of mind, joy, and the other things on the list of good things in life, we can make the pursuit of wealth a more enjoyable process.

The harsh truth is that some of people’s biggest life regrets are about working too hard, not having better relationships, and not being happier. Remember that the purpose of money is to help us live a better life.

For more tips about money and enjoying life, read Clever Girl Finance, or try some of our free money courses.

 

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Navigating Unsupportive Friends Who Don’t Support Your Financial Goals https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/unsupportive-friends/ Mon, 20 Jun 2022 03:40:04 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=28554 […]

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Unsupportive friends

Friendships are a crucial part of life. Friends make you laugh, they are who you create memories with and they make life more enjoyable. But what happens when you have unsupportive friends?

Unsupportive friends or unsupportive people can sometimes lead you away from your financial goals. This is often because everyone has their own relationship with money. Those with difficult or negative relationships with money tend to be less supportive of our financial goals.

If this is the case, you can navigate those friendships by expanding your circle of friends to include people with similar goals. You can also not take it personally when friends are unsupportive of your goals.

And ultimately you can be selective of what you share with friends, and sometimes not share your goals at all.

Unsupportive friends and how they affect your finances

You might be thinking, how does having unsupportive friends affect your finances? They can do so in direct and indirect ways.

Negativity from unsupportive friends

They can directly affect you by stating negative comments when you share your goals. Telling you things such as it’s pointless to save money or encouraging you to buy a new pair of shoes by putting it on a credit card.

Unsupportive friends' behavior

Unsupportive friends can indirectly affect you through destructive and expensive behaviors. This can look like inviting you to events that require you to spend a lot of money. Or ordering more food than you at a restaurant and asking you to split the bill. 

Mindset of unsupportive friends

And it doesn’t stop there. Unsupportive people can also affect your money mindset. When you’re constantly spending time with a friend who always complains about money, sooner or later you’ll start repeating similar statements.

Saying things such as money is evil, or you never have enough money, etc. These are some examples of conversations that can put you in a lack mindset.

Unsupportive friends can cause doubt

And the most detrimental effect of having unsupportive friends is that they can make you doubt yourself and your financial decisions.

For instance, if you’re the only one in your friend group budgeting or saving money it can make you feel isolated. And to avoid those feelings of loneliness, you become tempted to spend money so that you feel accepted and connected.

Fortunately, there are some ways to get out of the cycle of negativity and create relationships that are more supportive.

Steps to stay focused when you have unsupportive friends

Navigating your finances is already challenging sometimes, but with friends who don't exactly encourage you? Much tougher. Here are some tips to remember.

Don’t take it personally

We all value the opinions and advice of our loved ones. That’s why it can feel like a stab to the heart when a friend disregards your goals and dreams. It can feel like a personal attack.

However many times when people make hurtful comments it’s not a reflection of you, but of themselves. Depending on their past experiences or personal trauma it can cause them to lash out at you because they feel triggered by something you said.

Instead of taking offense try looking at the behavior of unsupportive people, through the lens of compassion. By doing so, you start to understand that a negative response may be directed toward you but is not about you.

An article in Very Well Mind offers advice on how to not take things personally. In the article, professionals recommend giving people a second chance. Often times unsupportive people say things they didn’t mean or say things without thinking because they are reacting to the situation.

On the contrary, the article states that sometimes it’s okay to take things personally. If you are offended by what someone says it may be because you care deeply about something. The trick is finding the balance between overcaring and caring too little.

Accept that some friends may not be in the place to support you

It’s important to keep in mind that unsupportive friends may not be in the emotional or financial place to support you. Unsupportive people who are struggling in life tend to focus on their own problems and challenges.

Imagine you slammed your hand in the car door and in that exact moment when your hand is throbbing in pain, you’re friend tells you they just got engaged.

Although you may be happy for them, you’re probably not going to start picking wedding destinations with them because you’re too focused on your own pain. This applies to emotional pain as well.

So before sharing your financial goals, check in with your friend to see if they are ready to listen.

Ask them how they're doing. See where they are at emotionally before your share your news. And if now isn’t the right time, have some patience and wait for the right moment.

 Expand your friendship circle

Let’s be honest, if you aren’t receiving support from your friends it might be time to make new friends. You don’t have to ignore your current friends, just reach out to others who share your similar goals. It's all about shifting your circle of influence.

If you aren't sure where to find new friends, the online space is a great place to start. There are communities on platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube including our amazing Clever Girl Finance community!

There are also Facebook groups such as Your Money Your Life that was created by NPR and covers a large range of financial topics. In addition to these groups, you can even join financial literacy groups with seminars and meet-ups.

Your new financially savvy friends are waiting to meet you.

Be selective in what you share

The great thing about creating your financial goals is you can choose what to share and what not to share. For instance, you can share that you are building your savings but you don’t have to share how much you're saving.

You can tell your friends how your goal is to be debt-free by the end of the year, but you don’t have to share how much debt you’ll be paying off.

The key is to share the what and not the how. And later down the line, you can always decide to share a little bit more.

For now, you can save the importance of your goal for yourself and supportive friends while giving the unsupportive friends the lighter details.

Don’t share your goals

If you have friends that are often over-critical or a bit negative, sometimes the best thing to do is not share your goals. This helps you to avoid awkward situations, criticism, and a possible rupture in the friendship.

Yet, if you feel like your goal is too good not to share, then there is one person who may be the best person to share your goal with.

Studies have shown that telling your goal to someone you consider a high-status individual can increase your chances of fulfilling your goal.

A high-status individual is someone in your life that you look up to. Someone you admire such as a coach, a mentor, or even a community member.

Because these people are often who you want to impress or someone you look up to, then you’ll most likely work hard to achieve your goal so that you don’t look foolish.

Words of encouragement when dealing with unsupportive friends

Quotes can be super helpful by offering messages of encouragement and helping to remind you that you are not alone in your experience. Take a look at these "unsupportive friends quotes" and their interpretations. Find one that’s most helpful for you in your current situation.

Unsupportive family quotes to remember

"Never let the lack of support deter your mission.”– Unknown

This one line says so much in very few words. Lack of encouragement or support is no reason to not fulfill your goal.

“It’s okay to cut toxic family members out of your life. Blood ain’t thicker than peace of mind.”– Unknown

A brutally honest quote that reminds you that peace of mind is always a top priority.

“You can love them, forgive them, want good things for them, but still move on without them.” – Mandy Hale

Hale’s quote is a gentle reminder that you don’t have to keep negative people in your life and it doesn't make you a bad person if you choose to live a life where they aren’t involved.

 Unsupportive friends quotes to remember

Here is some extra encouragement in the form of unsupportive friends quotes. These will help you to stay focused on your goals.

 “We have three types of friends in life: Friends for a reason, friends for a season, and friends for a lifetime. “-Unknown

This is a great reminder that some friendships don’t have to last your entire lifetime. Some will and some won’t and it’s okay to let go of the friends that don’t work out.

“ Friends are nice to have, but don't let friends slow up your progression. Follow your dreams, not your friends. Real ones understand.” Unknown

This quote can easily be applied to your money goals. Instead of following the spending behaviors of your friends, follow your goals and dreams.

 “It's not how many friends you have it's the quality of friends you have. “- Unknown.

Having a large number of friends can seem appealing but it’s better to have a few good friends than a big group of fake friends.

Don’t let unsupportive people keep you from achieving your financial goals

Navigating relationships with unsupportive friends and family is not always an easy task. However, by practicing acceptance, not taking things personally, and expanding your friend group you can start creating new bonds.

By setting financial boundaries you can start to build the foundation for stronger relationships with your friends and family.

And of course, whenever you need encouragement with money, Clever Girl Finance has multiple articles about investing, saving money, and achieving your dreams.

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How To Attract Money Into Your Life https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/how-to-attract-money-in-your-life/ Mon, 23 May 2022 14:57:25 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=25347 […]

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How to attract money

So what attracts money? Many of us have heard about the concept of attracting money. Spiritual books and messages from media gurus, have us believing that attracting money is a magical process. That we can simply think about money, and suddenly our bank accounts are overflowing.

However, attracting money isn’t as mystical as it seems. There are practical and effective ways to attract money into your life.

When it comes to how to attract money, it boils down to adjusting your mindset and environment. This helps you to be open to the different ways money can enter your life.

So let's dive into how to attract money into your life in a practical way.

How to attract money: 6 Key ways

We all can attract more money into our lives. Most of the time, this ability is dependent on changing our behaviors and bad habits. And when learning new behaviors, it's important to implement changes one step at a time.

This way attracting more money can be something you consistently do. So with that said, here are 6 ways to attract money into your life!

1. Change your focus

Changing your focus is great when it comes to how to attract money with ease. We spend so much time concentrating on the financial problems that it creates a lack mindset.

This is when we get stuck in thinking about the money we don't have.

The stress and worry that comes from focusing on lack, won’t bring more money into our lives. What does help us attract money is shifting our mindset from lack to abundance.

When we have an abundant mindset we understand that resources, including money, are not finite. It’s being open to receiving money through different means, other than our paycheck.

With this mindset, we believe we can have more than enough money to buy the things we want and need.

Retrain your thoughts

So to train your brain to focus on this concept, you can start recognizing the abundance you have in your life. For example, appreciating that you have more than enough air to breathe.

Understanding that there are plenty of people in this world, thus a greater potential for more clients. Realizing that new businesses are developing every day and adding to the number of job opportunities.

Abundance thinking is about seeing the bigger picture. Being open to possibilities and opportunities. Imagine going to a movie theater and sitting in the very first row. When you're that close to the screen, you only see part of the picture.

You can’t see what’s fully happening. When you back up, you can get the full view. Same with your finances. When you only look at one lacking area, you don’t get a full picture of what’s going on.

2. Increase your financial literacy

Increasing your financial literacy is how to attract wealth faster. Donald Rumsfeld once said, " There are things we don't know, we don't know.” If we don’t know the best ways to earn, save and grow our money, we can’t expect things to change.

By understanding the basics of money and different financial systems, you can start attracting the money you want.

This can be as simple as learning how to create a passive income, learning the best ways to save money, or how to grow money through investing.

Knowledge is always at our fingertips with finance books, money podcasts, and online courses. Financial literacy is obtainable.

On the Clever Girl Finance website, there are free courses around creating a functional budget and solid savings plan. As well as courses on how to eliminate debt and raise your credit score.

Knowledge in these areas is the basis of financial literacy and a simple way to attract more money into your life.

3. Speak positively about money

One of the easiest ways to attract money is to speak more positively about it. Everyone is guilty of speaking about money negatively. We’ve all had reactive moments of saying “ I could never afford that" or “I’ll always be in debt.”

Mentioning these comments can feel appropriate at the moment, but they aren’t helping us achieve the financial freedom we desire.

Instead of complaining about your money problems, you can have a productive conversation. You can shift your language to asking questions and seeking advice.

For instance, using positive financial affirmations is an excellent way how to attract wealth while developing a better mindset. (We also have a list of money affirmations that work fast to change your mindset!).

Here is some positive money language you can use to replace the negative money talk.

Recognize the benefits of money

Remember that money helps you to do many things such as buy food and pay for a roof over your head.

You can appreciate money by saying how thankful you are to receive a paycheck or being grateful every time you go to the grocery store. This kind of positive talk will help you in many ways.

Ask questions instead of making complaints

So, unfortunately complaining about not making enough money doesn't give you more money. If it did, we'd all be rich. Instead of complaining, you can ask yourself how to increase your income.

Or pose the question of how to monetize your skills. This creates an opportunity to find a solution instead of dwelling on the problem.

Surround yourself with people who speak positively about money

Say you have a friend who has achieved financial goals such as paying off debt or buying a house. This is a great opportunity to ask that friend how they were able to achieve that goal.

Along with sharing knowledge, talking about money is a great way to relieve some of the stress around money.

4. Enhance your environment to attract more money

Enhancing your environment means changing your environment so that it reflects the money and the lifestyle you desire to attract.

You can start by clearing clutter and unnecessary objects. Then enhance your space with things that make you calm and happy. This doesn’t mean going out and buying a bunch of things.

Instead, you can put affirmations and reminders on your wall of the money and achievements you hope to attract. Creating spaces, where you are constantly reminded of your goals is how to attract money. This allows your brain then start to create ways to achieve those goals.

5. Take action to attract money

What attracts money fast? Taking action! With your environment enhanced for attracting money, it’s easier for you to feel inspired and take action.

Many money attraction methods focus on visualizing. Closing your eyes and seeing the money and things you want.

But that’s just the first step. What tends to happen is you can get stuck on visualizing. The next step is to take inspired action to make that vision a reality.

Here are two ways to take action:

Get clear on the amount of money you want to attract

Start with how much money you're already attracting through your income. Be sure to include money from side hustles, tax refunds, and other income means. Knowing how much money you've attracted shows your mind what you're capable of.

Next, figure out what your income is not covering. Perhaps you want to know how to attract more money for a vacation. How much will that cost you? Maybe $3,000 or $,6000.

When you have a specific number it helps give your brain a clear direction. With a clear number, you know how much you may need to save or earn to achieve your goal.

Ask yourself who you need to be to attract the money you desire

One of the many reasons why some millionaires start with very little and eventually earn and grow their wealth is because they became the person they needed to be. Say you hope to attract more money through a better-paying job.

What are the characteristics of a person earning a higher salary? Do they advocate for a higher wage? Do they have certain connections?

Attracting more money means taking on the traits of those who have a wealth mindset. With this mindset, you too can learn how to attract wealth.

6. Your happiness is what attracts money

We all think that we would be happier if we had more money. Besides having enough money to survive, the media tricks us into thinking that the more money we have, the happier we'll be.

Unfortunately, most of the time money itself doesn't make us happy. After all, money is simply pieces of paper. It’s the things that money can do for us that make us happy. Money to travel, money to buy a new car, money to take time off and spend with family.

When we focus too much on the money we forget that it adds to our happiness. It doesn’t create it. So focus on your happiness, and you will find that it is much easier for you to attract money into your life.

You can attract money into your life

Now you know how to attract money in your life. It’s more than just thinking about money. Attracting money is dependent on our mindset. It’s about increasing our financial education along with speaking positively about money and enhancing our environments.

Attracting money is a result of taking action towards our goals. And living a life, we love and not waiting on money to make us happy.

Following these key steps will help you attract money into your life and is the first step in attracting wealth. Attracting wealth means creating financial stability with your money. Generating more than enough money, so all your needs are met.

Attracting an abundant income so that you can save. Having the freedom to invest in things that matter to you, such as owning a home or traveling the world. 

Remember that attracting money is all about creating more opportunities for you to earn and receive money.

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10 Ways To Do Things Differently For Financial Success https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/do-things-differently-for-financial-success/ Sat, 07 May 2022 16:13:40 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=23450 […]

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Do things differently

Achieving financial success isn’t always about following certain rules. Sometimes it’s about doing things differently. This is especially true if you have a pattern of bad money habits. Spending first and saving later, impulse shopping, and not following a budget. All these things can keep you in financial agony.

So if you want to get out of your financial rut, it may be time to do things differently.

10 Simple ways to do things differently

Doing things differently means stepping away from your old routines and bad habits to try something you’ve never done before. This includes trying things that might sound a little unconventional. 

Yes, your old patterns and routines feel safe, but you can’t expect to get to a new destination by walking the same path.

If you’re ready to try something new when it comes to your finances, here are 10 ways you can start doing things differently to help you reach financial success.

1. Start with no spend days

Think about how often you spend money. Your bank statement probably shows daily purchases. If non-essential spending is leaving your account at zero, no spend days can keep your bank account out of the red.

No spend days are when you choose a day to spend no money. With the exception of necessities such as rent, electricity bills, and other essential things.

This means no online purchases, no buying coffee, no credit card purchases, etc. Here are some ways to get started:

Try a no-spend challenge

This challenge can be a fun way to practice not spending money on unnecessary things. For challenges, you choose a specific time period, such as a week or month, where you will not spend money on non-essentials.

You won't believe how much you can save with this money-savings challenge!

Choose a day that works for you

When trying to do things differently, don't go overboard. For instance, if you need to buy coffee to get through your workday, don't start on a Monday. Try choosing a day where you’re most likely to spend time at home.

Fill your no-spend day with fun activities that don’t require spending money.

Enjoying yourself doesn't have to cost a lot of money. There are many low-cost and fun hobbies you can explore on your no-spend days. Try picking up that dusty guitar you once played.

Perhaps you can dive into a romance novel or try a new recipe. Use your no-spend days to re-spark an old passion.

2. Automate your savings

Similar to the expression out of sight and out of mind, the easiest way to accumulate savings is to automate deposits. One of the biggest ways to do things differently is to put money away before you can spend it.

Some no-hassle ways to start saving include:

Setting up your savings and investments to have automatic deposits is the easiest way to build wealth!

3. Change the way you shop

When shopping, it's easy to go for name-brand products. However, this usually means you are paying for the label and not quality. Here are ways to spend less and gain more when shopping:

Buy generic or store brand products

You probably have your favorite brand of mac and cheese or pasta. Instead of sacrificing your favorites, buy generic items such as spices, toilet paper, and pantry staples like sugar and flour.

These are often one or two ingredient products that don't have major differences from the name brand items.

Do a pantry audit before you go shopping

Often times you have more than enough food in your cabinet to make a meal. But you've gotten into a habit of buying new groceries. Take a look at what’s already in your kitchen and ask yourself what can make with what you already have.

By planning out a meal from products that have been hiding away, you can save time and money with short or less frequent trips to the store.

Make a list before going to the grocery store

Making a list of what you need and based on preplanned meals will help you be more intentional with your shopping. A grocery list may not sound like you're doing things differently, but it can help you stay focused.

Instead of second-guessing or getting distracted, you buy what you need. Make your list based on meals you'll make for the week. The goal is to only buy items that are on your list.

Look for manager markdowns

These are products that have been marked down at a lower price because they are close to their sale date. The great thing about these products is that you can often find organic and other high-quality products for a fraction of the price.

These markdowns are usually located in the meat and produce sections, or on shelves near the back of the store. While shopping, it's important to remember that a 30% off sticker is appealing, but you should only buy products you'll actually eat.

Look for products on lower and higher shelves

The layout of many grocery stores is a thought-out process. This is why you commonly reach for items at your eye level. Yet, the lower-priced items are typically out of your eyesight. Remember to give a glance at the shelves above and below your typical eye line for better savings.

4. Adjust your spending habits

Along with adjusting the way you shop, you can do things differently by changing your spending habits. Like all habits, spending is a learned behavior. Spending habits can make you unaware of how much you're spending and why. Common spending habits can include:

  • Spending money immediately after getting paid.
  • Buying something from the convenience store every time you get gas.
  • Always covering a friend or co-worker's coffee or meal.

Spending habits aren’t all bad. However, when some habits leave your bank account on zero, those are the ones you need to reassess. Here are some ways to start changing some of your spending habits:

Track your spending

This can seem like a tedious task. Yet writing down every dollar you spend can help you become aware of how you spend your money. There are many ways to track your spending including apps and writing down purchases in a notepad.

We suggest trying to keep a spending journal! You track your spending AND how you feel when you spend the money. This helps identify and change habits.

Identify spending triggers

Spending triggers are things that prompt you to spend money. This could be walking past the discount aisle at the store. Friends inviting you to happy hour.

Or feeling frustrated with work and looking to retail therapy. By identifying what's prompting you to spend, you can do things differently and avoid these triggers and seek better emotional support.

Switch to using cash

Using cash helps you become more aware of what you are spending. Something as simple as knowing how much cash you need to take out of the ATM supports your decision-making when shopping.

Even counting out the money when making a purchase allows you to be more conscious of your spending. No more mindless swiping.

5. Declutter and minimalize

Finding the motivation to declutter can be difficult. Yet it can also be a key to unlocking your financial success. Decluttering is the process of getting rid of any unnecessary items in your home, office, or storage space.

It is a great way to see what you already have so you can stop buying what you don’t need.

Decluttering can be a big project so decide when and how you want to get it done. This could be dedicating a weekend or taking on small decluttering projects over time.

Once you’ve rid your space of things that no longer spark joy the next step in doing things differently is keeping your space clutter-free.

An easy way to put this concept into practice is by adopting a minimalist lifestyle. This means living a life with less. Incorporating items in your life that add value, and don’t just take up space. A 30-Day Minimalism Challenge is a great way to start.

Are you guilty of spending hundreds of dollars to have the latest iPhone or the newest gadget? If you were honest with yourself, would you say that having the newest device is about new features or the feeling of admiration?

It feels good to possess something that is highly sought after. But is the short-lived gratification worth the daily financial struggle?

When the newest version of a cell phone or watch comes out, ask yourself, do you need it? How will that purchase benefit you in the long run? If you need a new device, do things differently by purchasing the second newest model.

Chances are it has similar features and still can provide you with what you need for a fraction of the cost.

7. Try a different way of budgeting

Popular to what mainstream information has shown, budgets don’t come in one size fits all. There are many ways to budget, such as:

The 70-20-10 budget

The 70-20-10 budgeting system allows you to allocate a percentage of money towards spending, savings, and giving. So, you use 70% for needs and wants, 20% towards your savings, and 10% towards giving.

The great thing about this budget is that it's easy to follow. It allows you to cover your basic necessities while supporting organizations and people you care for with the giving category.

The 30-30-30-10 budget

The 30-30-30-10 budget is where you allocate 30% to housing, 30% to needs (such as utilities, food, etc) 30% to debt/savings, and 10% to your wants. This is a great budget if you need support with controlling your spending.

With smaller budget portions, it can make it easier for you to achieve certain financial goals by putting your goals at the forefront of your budget.

The 60-30-10 budget

The 60-30-10 budgeting system divides your income into long-term investments, necessities, and wants. So, 60% of your income goes towards saving, paying off debt, and investing, 30% goes to your needs, and 10% goes to your fun money.

With this budget, a large portion of your income will go towards savings or investments. This allows you to achieve certain financial goals faster. If saving up for a big purchase or paying off debt is high on your priority list, this could be the budget for you.

The 80/20 Rule

The 80/20 Rule is where you pay yourself 20% of your income and have 80% for necessities, bills, and wants. This is probably the easiest budget to follow.

It allows you to prioritize saving or paying off debt by putting away 20% of your income. Plus it gives you the freedom to buy what you want and need with the 80% leftover.

The bottom line is you can be the master and creator of your budget. If one way of budgeting feels too restricting you can manipulate the perimeters to work for you. And the happier you are with your budget the more likely you will stick to it.

8. Spend more time outdoors

Do you know what’s great about nature? It’s free. Spending time going for a walk, hiking in the mountains, biking riding along the pier. The cost of having a good time outside is close to nothing.

And an advantage of being outside is that it increases your vitamin D consumption and overall boosts your mood.

9. Do things differently by cooking more and eating out less

With Uber Eats, GrubHub and so many food options available with the click of a button, eating out while being at home can rack up a high price. Although it’s common to just pick up food curbside at your favorite restaurant, cooking can be a cost-saving option.

You can start by replicating your favorite take-out meals. Most often, you can find the recipes on YouTube or on cooking blogs.

By cooking, you can control how much you spend on certain meals. You can also add your flavors and mix up the ingredients to your preferences.

10. Prioritize your health

Making your health a priority sets you up for making positive choices with your money. Unhealthy habits such as eating fast food, and drinking too much alcohol can have costly consequences.

In addition, poor health can lead to long-term health problems that can result in higher medical bills. Put your money towards activities that help you maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as buying more fruits and vegetables, hiring a personal trainer, or a dietitian.

Implement small changes to do things differently long-term

When it comes to doing things differently, this type of change won’t happen overnight. It will take time to establish these new routines and habits. Therefore it’s best to start with one change and work on implementing that into your life.

From the above list, ask yourself, which would be the simplest to start with? Perhaps you are moving soon, so decluttering would be a convenient place to start.

If you’re looking for a new hobby, joining a hiking group or starting an outdoor activity can be the change you need. Something as simple as being happy with your current cellphone model and not rushing into an upgrade can make a big impact on your finances.

Remember that baby steps are still steps! Even if you get better at doing things differently a little each day, that is still progress.

Commit to doing things differently to achieve financial success!

Doing things differently ultimately comes down to reflecting on your habits and routines.

Changing the way you shop, using more cash, and not buying into trends are simple ways to make better financial decisions. And these changes will benefit you in the long run.

Adjusting to or trying out new ways of budgeting, decluttering, prioritizing your health with cooking, and going outside more, are all ways to reach personal and financial goals.

The post 10 Ways To Do Things Differently For Financial Success appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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How To Be Inspired By The Fear Of Being Average P.S. Average Is Ok! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/fear-of-being-average/ Mon, 25 Apr 2022 16:11:46 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=21549 […]

The post How To Be Inspired By The Fear Of Being Average P.S. Average Is Ok! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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Fear of being average

That sense of euphoria from winning a trophy. The rush of winning first place. Being the best feels good. This is why you focus on being extraordinary. And why you may have a fear of being average.

Yet if you allow yourself to be inspired by this fear, you can achieve great things. But you must first understand this fear to move past it.

That said, in this article, we'll discuss what this fear is, why people feel it and how to be inspired by the fear of being average!

What is the fear of being average?

The fear of being average is the desire to see yourself as better than average or above the norm. This anxiety can stem from the worry that living an ordinary life means you're missing out on something. This could imply that an above-average life is like riding a rollercoaster, and simple life is like riding the Ferris Wheel.

Yet being average is normal. It's healthy to be average weight for your age and height. Still, thinking of yourself as average would mean that you're not special. Average is boring, from some perspectives, and because of this perception, you fear being average.

Why do people have a fear of being average?

Throughout your life, you may have received an award for doing better than the majority. For example, winning a scholarship or being an employee of the month, you know that good things come to those who are great. Society praises excellence and degrades the rest.

A prime example is the dozens of motivational speakers teaching you that an average life doesn't equal your dream life. If you want your dreams to come true, you have to be exceptional. Otherwise, you’re failing.

However, you can use the fear of being average to inspire you! Let's look at ways you can harness this fear as inspiration.

4 Key ways to be inspired by the fear of being average

Although fear is a good motivator, it shouldn’t be your only motivation. Think of fear as lighting a match. The flame burns bright for a short time and then burns out. Fear helps you start, but it won't sustain you.

Fear often leads to becoming stressed. Stress leads you further from your goals. However, you can be motivated by the fear of being average instead of overwhelmed by it. Here are four ways how to use the fear of being average as motivation!

1. Define what average means to you

Edmund Gaudet defines average as the lazy person’s cop-out. He says that average is not having the guts to take a stand-in life and living by default. As brutal as this definition is, you can choose to agree or disagree with it.

Instead, what does average mean in regards to your life? Remember, your unique average will vary depending on your lifestyle, body type, environment, and other factors.

For example, the spending average for someone who makes $100,000 a year is different from someone who makes $30,000 a year. So remember to use this inspiration to be the best you can be without comparing yourself to others. 

2. Use the fear of being average to live your best life

Living a non-average life doesn’t mean you’re living your best life. To do so, think about what living your best life looks like and how you can be the person that lives that life. How can you be the best version of yourself?

It's not always about what you want to do. For example, buying fancy clothes or taking a big trip. Instead, it's about who you want to be. Say that your best life means you are happy.

How can you be a person that is happy? As a joyful person, you won't dwell on the negative. You will seek experiences and people that make you smile and laugh. You practice gratitude and appreciate the little things.

This may mean making a shift in your mindset. You can do this by reading inspirational books and practicing positive affirmations.

So you can use the fear of being average to motivate you to create the life you always wanted and be the person you want to be!

3. Use it to find your life's purpose

You can get inspired by the fear of being average and find your life's purpose. Living life with intentionality is one way to break away from monotony. An intentional life means you aren't just letting life happen to you. You're finding your purpose.

Your life's purpose is often tied to your unique talents. What is something you do naturally? The thing you can spend hours doing. Your special skills are the arrows pointing you in the direction of life's purpose.

Whether you're great at solving problems or are amazing at drawing, your gifts can make the world a better place. And if you don't know what you're good at, just start off by being curious.

If you've tried cooking and burned your first meal, but loved the process, keep at it. Because sometimes the purpose of life is to do what you love. So get motivated by the fear of being average to acquire a more fulfilling life!

4. Find a role model that inspires you

Role models not only set the example, but they can help guide you on your path to success. It’s important to find a role model you can relate to. Someone who shares your values and has achieved the success you crave.

Role models such as Malala Yousafzai, Tarana Burke, and Toni Morrison are great examples to follow. These phenomenal women embody the concept of persistence as they've overcome intense hardships in order to speak their truths.

Not only that, before they had fame and success, they were just average people. Yousafzai was a normal school girl before she became a worldwide symbol of courage. Burke was a community activist who led the nationwide " Me too" movement.

Morrison was a writer who went on to tell stories that impacted generations. These women were motivated by the fear of being average. They all had a choice to accept their negative circumstances and become another statistic. Yet they pushed forward to make a change, and so can you!

Why average is ok sometimes

Now, you know how to be inspired by the fear of being average. The next step is to come to terms with being average in some areas of your life. Remember, average is not a final destination.

Being average doesn't mean it's your final destination

You can start being average in one area of your life and advance to excellence. You can start out learning swimming strokes but end up competing professionally. You could enjoy reading a few books a year and one day pursue becoming a published author. You could love casually playing video games and one day become a video game creator. You get to decide what you want to be intentional about mastering!

We are all average at most things

To be great at something requires a large amount of time and energy. This means you’ll be great at one thing and average at something else. That’s ok. You chose what you want to master or the areas you want to excel in. Don't overwhelm yourself trying to master everything.

Being average can mean a healthy lifestyle

In addition, average helps maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating three balanced meals a day, and getting eight hours of sleep are common and average activities that bring balance into your life. And when it comes to maintaining that healthy achieving balance is essential.

So yes, get inspired by the fear of being average to become better, but remember, sometimes average is okay!

Get inspired by the fear of being average and become who you want to be!

They say that your dreams are located on the other side of your fears. Sometimes we are afraid of falling short of our expectations. We’re fearful of falling into the middle of the bell curve.

Or the flip side, we push our limits to stay above the average. Yet, when we direct our focus on the life we want to create, things become less scary. Focus on what inspires you. Do what sets your soul on fire.

And when you start to be afraid that you're just like everyone else, be motivated by the fear of being average. Take action towards your dreams.

The post How To Be Inspired By The Fear Of Being Average P.S. Average Is Ok! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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Living A Healthy Lifestyle On A Budget https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/how-to-live-a-healthy-lifestyle-and-save-money/ Sun, 11 Apr 2021 16:19:17 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=11311 […]

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Living a healthy lifestyle on a budget

Your priorities are clear—crush debt, save for retirement, and perhaps put aside some cash for your kids. Yet you have a nagging voice in your head that’s telling you to start doing more for your health. Understandable, given those Instagram photos of ripped bodies and delicious-looking healthy foods. However, living a healthy lifestyle doesn't have to take money away from your financial goals.

There are clear ways to get the most out of your investment in healthy living. This will result in a healthier you (fewer sick days off work, less money spent on hospital bills, and more energy to enjoy your family even as you grind hard).

So if you're on a quest to live a healthy lifestyle without breaking the bank, keep reading!

Get clear on your health and fitness goals for living a healthy lifestyle

When you chose to push for your financial freedom, you got clear about what that would mean for your life. More money in your pocket, a retirement that’s filled with rich experiences, and children that are set up to have a better life than you had.

Defining what your health would look like in your new financially free life should be no different. You don’t want to wake up one day retired to find yourself dealing with lifestyle diseases.

Those that take away from the post-retirement life you planned so carefully. . . diseases that you could have prevented by taking care of your health now.

A great way to stay healthy is by working out, which you can do from the comfort of your own home with an online personal trainer. Skipping expensive gym memberships can save you a bundle of money, and you can still have excellent workouts to improve your health from home.

As you reflect on your vision of financial freedom to help you stay motivated, visualize how you want to feel. Extend the motivation you have toward earning, spending, and saving wisely to care for your health. And it all starts with living a healthy lifestyle.

Decide on affordable workout gear

If you let social media tell it, you need to wear the latest athleisure clothing to work out. But you don’t need $90 yoga pants or a $150 jacket to exercise consistently and get the results you’re after.

These expensive aspects of a healthy, active lifestyle journey are optional. An old t-shirt and a comfortable pair of leggings are the perfect attire for exercising that isn’t expensive.

Another path to save money on workout gear is to get a few quality pieces that you can rotate through for a long time. Like a good capsule wardrobe, a few high-quality basics will get the job done, and they don’t have to cost a fortune.

Save money on groceries

You certainly don’t have to follow the latest, expensive health trends to get the vitality-giving benefits of a healthy, active lifestyle. Your whole paycheck doesn’t have to go to Whole Foods or Trader Joe’s to get these benefits.

Instead, a strategic plan for clean eating and getting healthy food on the table will work wonders. Some of my favorite strategies include:

Buying non-perishables in bulk

Get them when they’re on sale if possible.

Be disciplined when buying specialty items

Matcha green tea is touted as a superfood, but regular old green tea will do the trick in a pinch, and it’s a lot cheaper.

Enjoy cheaper non-meat protein sources

Foods like beans, nuts, and tofu have less protein, but you get a two-for-one deal because they’re high in filling fiber, which will boost your digestive health.

Get fruits and veggies in season

Buy local where possible, as shipping costs are added directly into the cost of your produce.

Choose frozen fruits and veggies when you can

Frozen fruits and veggies provide you with the necessary nutrition, and you can get non-seasonal produce for cheaper. These can be used in smoothies, oatmeal and baked goods.

Buy store brand packaged goods when you need to

Sometimes they’re just as good as the name-brand options. There are also great frozen food options. Comparing the ingredient list and nutrition labels can help you choose what’s best.

These are a few strategies to help you start living a healthy lifestyle. As you start to see how much more energy you have (or even the pounds come off), you’ll be motivated to find more.

Simplify living a healthy lifestyle with meal prepping

One of the best ways to save money with your new healthy, active lifestyle is to prep your meals. Meal prepping is when you make your meals in advance, so you have yummy food to eat without cooking every day!

This also prevents food waste because rather than ordering out and your food going bad, you already have it prepared.

The key to meal prepping is creating a monthly meal plan. When you plan your meals, you know exactly what you are eating on what days. This also saves time and the aggravation of trying to decide what to eat every night.

For example, your meal plan would include what you are having for dinner on what night. This keeps you from breaking your healthy eating habits and prevents you from busting your budget on take-out. Meal planning will help you simplify living a healthy lifestyle and save you big bucks!

Take advantage of your insurance benefits

Having the right health insurance plan can reduce the financial burden of healthcare. It can help you spend less money out of pocket, which means more money in your retirement accounts or to pay down debt.

But don’t just buy health insurance. Look into benefits like:

Options for an HSA (Health Savings Account)

An HSA is an account you can put pre-tax dollars into to pay for healthcare expenses. This can help reduce your tax burden and save money for future health costs, as it rolls over each year.

There’s a cap on how much you can contribute each year, but not how much you can have in the account. This means you can save toward your health expenses if leaving your nine to five is one of your motivations for financial freedom.

Subsidized preventive care

Preventive care can help catch any health issues early and take care of them before they become full-blown health emergencies.

Get started with living a healthy lifestyle today!

These are five strategies that can help you benefit from caring for your health even as you care for your wallet. So don’t use your financial goals as an excuse not to live a healthy lifestyle!

Financial goals are a valid reason to put other areas of your life on hold, but ignoring your health could put a drain on your future earning potential and quality of life.

Stay motivated and focused on living a healthy lifestyle by listening to podcasts and reading blogs. Learning how to save on groceries, meal prep, and setting goals will help you achieve the healthy, active lifestyle you desire!

The post Living A Healthy Lifestyle On A Budget appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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