Money Mindset | Clever Girl Finance https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/category/building-wealth/financial-empowerment/money-mindset/ Empowering women to achieve financial success. Thu, 18 Jul 2024 16:12:17 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/cropped-Favicon-06-12-400x400.png Money Mindset | Clever Girl Finance https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/category/building-wealth/financial-empowerment/money-mindset/ 32 32 Rich Mindset Vs Poor Mindset: How To Develop A Rich Mindset! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/poor-vs-rich/ https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/poor-vs-rich/#respond Mon, 22 Jan 2024 16:44:08 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=63988 […]

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You’re likely reading this article because you’re interested in the differences between the way poor vs rich people think and act. You’d probably like to apply the habits of the rich in your own life, right? Well, one thing stands out – it starts with a rich mindset.

Rich mindset

If you’re serious about becoming successful, then you need to understand the difference between rich and poor mentality. As you study the lives of wealthy people, you’ll notice one consistent theme: a growth mindset.

One of my favorite quotes of all time is from Dale Carnegie“Most of the important things in the world have been accomplished by people who have kept on trying when there seemed to be no hope at all.”

Having a rich mindset is ultimately about self-growth and persevering until you reach your desired outcome. The best place to begin? Understanding the rich vs poor mindset.

Ready to learn what sets apart the rich mindset vs poor mindset? Let’s dive in!

The difference between rich and poor mentality

If you’ve spent any time on social media such as Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube, you’ve no doubt seen people posting content about their incredibly lavish lifestyles. For some, the images are real. But for others, behind the scenes, there’s a lot of debt, poor credit, and zero savings.

In the extremely popular and captivating book The Millionaire Next Door, authors Thomas J. Stanley and William D. Danko studied millionaires over several decades. Do you know what they found? Most millionaires aren’t living out in Hollywood. 

Most millionaires are right in front of you – living in your neighborhood, driving that second-hand Toyota, and sporting the iPhone from 5 years ago.

There are so many lessons to learn from everyday millionaires. They’re business owners who’ve built their empires from the ground up, women and men who’ve maintained their old lifestyles while building real assets and using a rich mindset.

It’s important to realize that the truly rich often won’t flaunt it.

Additionally, it’s partly why they continue to increase in wealth. They’re not giving into consumption by buying the latest gadgets or the most expensive items. Instead, they’re building assets.

This is a key differentiator between rich vs poor people. Living in luxury can be one of the habits of the poor mindset.

But becoming rich is possible with the right mindset, and there are many more wealthy people out there than you might imagine. These are people who have built wealth quietly using a stealth wealth approach.

What is a poor mindset?

On the other end of the spectrum, you have a significant number of people stuck in a poverty mindset. Poverty and being poor are complex. The environment, exposure, and life experiences can keep someone trapped in this poverty mentality.

It can be difficult to overcome this.

However, you can carve your way out by deciding to adjust your thinking with the power of mindset. So, what are the thought patterns that can hold you back from becoming wealthy?

A poor mindset believes things will not change

Poor mindset convinces people that their circumstances are fixed and that living paycheck to paycheck is the best they can do. They have a lot of negativity and think that there’s not much they can do to improve their circumstances. It’s a big difference between rich and poor mentality.

An attitude of poverty believes overcoming challenges is impossible

Someone using habits of the poor mindset believes that what life has thrown them has never been seen before and their challenges are impossible to overcome. This way of thinking may also cause them to feel judgment towards those that are rich.

What this person fails to realize is that everyone goes through rough patches. Oprah didn’t rise to where she is without facing major personal and professional challenges.

Instead, she has a wealth mentality. Below, we’ll walk through certain habits that wealthy people have that set them apart from the rest.

13 Rich mindset habits to start emulating now

Now that you know the difference between the rich vs poor mindset, let’s get into specific rich mindset habits that you can start working on today.

1. Rich people always have a vision

Before you hit the ground running, ask yourself this: what is your vision? Jonathan Swift said it right when he said, “Vision is the art of seeing what is invisible to others.”

Do you have hopes and dreams you’re constantly thinking of achieving? Is your vision big beyond what you think you are capable of today? Will what you see for yourself change your life, the life of your family, or your community in the future?

If all you see is where you are today, challenge yourself to build a vision. Once you do, realize it’s not a one-and-done affair.

Instead, it’s an everyday process where your mind dreams further of what’s possible, and then you follow your dreams. The rich are persistent and keep working towards their vision and goals; a huge difference between the rich mindset vs poor mindset.

2. Rich people have productive routines

Netflix, YouTube, and TikTok have been dominating the entertainment scene of late. Millions of hours are viewed each day. While it’s great for them, it does little for you – and the wealthy know this. Most rich people are more productive with their time.

People with money are intentional. They have routines. And they understand that you don’t just wake up as a diligent individual out of nowhere.

When we talk about routines, we don’t just mean waking up at 5 am every day. That’s only a tiny part of it.

Instead, we’re referring to the overall environment the wealthy put themselves in.

Rich people are intentional about the friends they keep. They pay attention to what they feed their minds. And they put themselves in environments where success is most likely.

Routines consist of all these components – time, environment, and habits.

For example, when you need to work from home, do you stay in bed? You probably end up getting much less done. Having a designated workspace will get you much further ahead.

Basically, create a life that makes success inevitable and eliminates obstacles that could stop you from achieving your goals. The reliability of a routine can help you succeed. The wealthy know this and are intentional about having a consistent billion dollar morning routine.

3. A rich mindset is results-driven

Rich people focus on outcomes. They take full responsibility by setting goals and achieving them.

In addition, they aren’t building routines for bragging rights. No one is waking up at 5 am, so they can post about it on Instagram.

No. People with money are focused on the results and will commit to doing what it takes to achieve them.

Routines alone will improve your quality of life. But they won’t do anything for your bank account. Routines coupled with focused action will yield results.

So, what’s the best way to achieve results? Know what you want. When you have a clear idea of what the end goal is, it will be so much easier to work back and figure out what it takes to get there!

4. Rich people admit when they don’t know

Guess what makes you a smart person? Admitting what you don’t know and knowing how to ask meaningful questions.

The rich know this and are on a constant search for knowledge as part of their rich mindset. So, if you’re learning from a mentor, ask smart questions for informational purposes.

Learn in regards to the challenges they are facing, understand what they are trying to achieve, how they are planning to achieve their goals, and what they’ve learned from past experiences.

Listening always pays off. Gather intel on best practices, new opportunities, and potential challenges and solutions. Use this skill when learning, negotiating, exploring, or networking – basically every human interaction you have!

5. People with a rich mindset don’t work for money

You heard that right. The wealthy work to learn. Poor people often work for their next paycheck.

Reasons for working is a huge difference in the rich vs poor mindset.

You see it all around you. Poor people end up working from paycheck to paycheck, barely making ends meet. Rich people, in the meantime, grow their skills and abilities and continually rise up the ranks.

6. Rich people have mentors

Life is all about relationships. You’ve heard the saying before, “Your network is your net worth.” It’s true.

But that doesn’t mean you should go out there and dump your friends. Instead, it means you should broaden your circle.

Once you make money the end goal, you’ll be stuck working for it without growing in your talents and abilities to boost your income.

However, if you work to learn, you’ll be well on your way to success.

You see, those with wealth connect with other people. They identify stars in their field, study them, and through a leap of faith, make that connection.

It all goes back to your vision.

Who inspires you? What do you admire about them? What do you hope to learn from them?

And it doesn’t just stop there. A rich mindset asks how you’ll make a connection with that person. To connect with anyone you’d like in the world, you have to serve them first.

Understand their world and figure out how you can add value to them. They’ll be much more receptive to mentoring you once you’ve built a relationship.

7. Rich people always look out for opportunities

Shark Tank is a fascinating show. Every week, handfuls of entrepreneurs stand before the sharks and pitch a new idea. Some of them are wild.

Would you ever imagine a sponge in the shape of a smiley face making millions of dollars? Or a toilet stool that makes bowel movements easier, revamping how people handle their business? Scrub Daddy and Squatty Potty did just that.

Their founders were visionaries who saw opportunities in the mundane day-to-day activities of life.

Not seeking to improve things is one of the habits of the poor mindset. But not someone with a rich mindset.

A rich person always seeks to improve upon what’s out there – and there’s always room for improvement. Both in good economies and bad.

Past recessions birthed companies like Airbnb, Venmo, and Uber. Recessions and times of economic uncertainty create some of the greatest comeback stories you can ever imagine. It’s times like these where differences between people with rich vs poor mindsets stand out.

8. Rich people believe in abundance

In the rich vs poor mindset, there’s often one core belief that holds poor people back. It’s a belief that resources are limited, also called a scarcity mindset. It’s a belief that if my neighbor Jane succeeds, then there’s less room for me to succeed.

It can often lead to resentment and an assumption that rich people only look out for their own interests. To a person with a poor mindset, resources are always scarce.

People with money, on the other hand, believe in abundance.

You’ve succeeded? Great! Who else can, too?

Wealthy people know there’s plenty to go around. They do not engage in an “us vs. them” mentality. They focus on providing as much value as they can to as many people as they can. That’s their formula for success.

Zig Ziglar summarized it well when he said, “You can have everything in life you want if you will just help other people get what they want.”

9. A person with a rich mindset learns how to manage their finances

No one is born knowing how to manage their money. Sure, some people are born into families where good money habits are modeled well for them. But for the majority of us, that’s not the case.

Rich people know this and are proactive in managing their finances. A rich person has a budget.

A wealthy person has learned how to invest in the stock market. A successful person made it a priority to get out of debt.

Beyond that, the rich understand how to use money to their advantage. Instead of racking up thousands of dollars in consumer debt, rich people will leverage it to start a business if they need to. They use debt to build, and they pay it off responsibly.

10. Rich people are not afraid to fail

Rich people are not afraid to fail because they know failure leads to success. They’re not afraid of trying something new. They see a problem, and they are quick to think of solutions to it.

No one has 100% accuracy with finance and investments. Sometimes, you just have to take a calculated risk.

Failure and setbacks don’t worry them because they have not failed as long as there are life lessons to learn. They are willing to go out on a limb sometimes, at their own risk, because they want to improve and try to be more successful.

You’ve certainly achieved wins in the past, but you’ve probably also had things not go according to plan before those wins. Look back at each of them, and you’ll notice the lessons you learned in order for you to get to the point of success.

11. Rich people focus on the long-term

There are two different perspectives in life: those who focus on what’s in front of them and those who think about the big picture.

People with a rich mindset don’t just think about what’s going to happen tomorrow or even over the next year. They think about what is going to happen in the next 20 or 30 years. The rich realize that things take time, including building generational wealth.

For example, a rich person knows that forgoing the latest smartphone model and instead investing that money in a retirement account will be better for them in the long run. Sure, that money might be off-limits until they hit 59-and-a-half. But they know that even if it’s not accessible right now, it’s helping them build long-term wealth.

And thanks to earning compound interest, the longer they wait, the more money they’ll have in the end.

12. The rich take care of their health

People with a rich mindset have a different way of thinking when it comes to things like health and taking care of themselves. They know that while working hard will pay off in the end, it won’t if it’s at the cost of their health.

That’s why rich people make sure to prioritize living a healthy lifestyle. That means eating healthy, exercising, and regularly going to the doctor. But it also means focusing on mental health.

If you have a negative mindset and are struggling with your psychological health, it can be difficult to focus on other things like making money and building money habits. So, focusing on a positive way of thinking and mental health can help you succeed.

13. Rich people understand the value of investing

Another one of the differences is that rich people understand the value of investing. Putting aside money into an IRA or some sort of retirement savings every year might not seem like the most exciting use of your money, but it can be one of the keys to building wealth.

How? When you invest money, whether it’s in the stock market, real estate, or another type of investment account, you’re making a long-term bet that your money will grow in value over time.

People with a wealthy mindset understand that investing can pay off, especially if you start investing at a young age. That’s because the longer you invest, the more time your money has to compound and earn you even more cash.

Expert tip: You can change your perspective

If you want to start building wealth, you need to develop a rich mindset. By focusing on how you approach and think about things, you can turn your perspective around from being negative to positive.

Instead of thinking about what you can’t do or why you can’t increase your savings, think about the things you can do today. Use the resources you have available to you and start building the right habits and your mind will change.

How do you go from a poor mindset to a rich mindset?

If you want to go from a poor mindset to a rich mindset, focus on improving yourself and how you think about things.

For example, practice gratitude with a daily gratitude list, meditate, and surround yourself with people who are positive. Make sure to set clear goals and gain as much knowledge as possible.

What is the difference between a broke mentality and a poor mentality?

A poor mentality is a mindset where you believe that opportunities are limited and that money should never be spent. In addition, you believe you shouldn’t take risks, and if you do have success, it’s temporary.

A broke mindset is when you don’t know what’s important to focus on when it comes to money. You might spend your paycheck on the consumption of things you don’t need, then complain that you are not able to save or invest.

Both of these mindsets can be changed, and you can begin to think positively about your life and finances.

How do you know if you have a rich mindset?

If you think that being wealthy is possible and are focused on building value over the long term, then you may have a rich mindset.

Likewise, if you find yourself already practicing investing, managing your money, and recognizing opportunities, then you likely are on the path to having the right mindset to build wealth.

If you want to know more about how to change your mindset and become wealthy, check out these posts next!

Develop your rich mindset to become wealthy!

Now you know the difference between rich and poor mentality. Becoming rich is not hard, but it does take time and effort.

You just need to start cultivating habits that will get you there and understand a rich mindset vs poor mindset. Practice habits that will make you wealthy, not habits of the poor mindset.

Like many before you, you too can become a millionaire. It won’t happen overnight, but with consistent and diligent effort and a good mindset, you’ll be well on your way to achieving wealth.

So, I’ll leave you with these questions: What is your vision? Where are you going? Who do you want to be? 

Today is a great time to start developing your rich mindset and working towards your goals.

To learn new things about habits and finance, listen to our podcast, Clever Girls Know. Or check out these financial books for even more information about money.

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How To Create A Mindset Of Financial Abundance https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/financial-abundance/ https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/financial-abundance/#respond Thu, 12 Oct 2023 15:59:18 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=59711 […]

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Many of us are guilty of having a scarcity mindset when it comes to money, which holds us back from achieving financial abundance. You might believe that there isn’t enough money to go around or that you have to work extra hard for every penny you earn. But changing your mindset about money can improve your life in huge ways.

Financial Abundance

You might be constantly stressed out and worried about your finances. But what if you could change your money mindset? What if you could adopt a financial abundance mindset instead?

In this article, we will discuss why developing a mindset of financial abundance is important, the true meaning of financial abundance, and tips for how to achieve it!

Financial abundance meaning

For some people, the word “abundance” might bring to mind images of money overflowing from safes or lavish shopping sprees on luxury items. But true abundance is so much more than that.

It’s about having everything you need and then some. It’s about making life easier and living with plenty, without concern about money or where your next meal is coming from.

When you have more abundance, you’re able to pursue authentic living and be true to yourself. You can afford to do what you love, and you have the resources to help others in need as well.

You’re also able to enjoy life’s simple pleasures and not be burdened by financial stress or worry. Money is attracted to you as a result!

In addition, financial abundance is a state of mind characterized by thinking positively about money and believing that there is enough money for you as well as everyone else.

Now that we’ve covered the financial abundance meaning let’s dive into why developing this mindset is so important!

Why is adopting a financial abundance mindset so important?

If you realize that you currently have a negative mindset and it’s limiting your financial success and money goals, then it might be time to learn how to change your life.

Of course, changing your mindset isn’t something that could be done in a matter of seconds. But with a little bit of work, you’ll be surprised at the benefits it could bring into your life.

Here are some of the things that can happen when you begin to think in a more positive way:

Leads to less financial stress

It’s probably not too surprising to learn that money is a huge cause of stress for the majority of Americans.

Not having enough money is definitely stressful, but what if you could change the way you think about the situation? When you adopt a financial abundance mindset, you start to see money in a different light and begin changing your perception of finance.

You stop worrying about having “enough” and instead focus on creating wealth and abundance for yourself. Which can lead to less financial stress and more peace of mind overall.

Improves your morale and confidence level

Financial abundance isn’t just about having lots of money. It’s also about feeling confident and capable when making decisions around money matters, both big and small.

When you adopt an abundance mindset, you’re more likely to make decisions that could lead to increased earnings potential and high-income skills because you know that even if things don’t go as planned, you’ll be able to weather the storm.

Also, having a positive relationship with money can improve your morale and overall outlook on your financial life.

Allows you to dream big and trust the process

When you have a positive mindset around your finances, you’ll begin to believe that achieving money abundance in your life is 100% possible. Having this kind of confidence and belief in yourself will allow you to dream big, set goals, and work hard to achieve them.

Also, when you know that achieving financial success in life is inevitable for you, you won’t worry during the process. Instead, you trust that everything will unfold perfectly in the end.

Scarcity mindset vs. abundance mindset

So do you have a scarcity mindset or an abundance mindset? These two mindsets could not be more different.

With a scarcity mindset, you see the world as a place where there isn’t enough for everyone.

On the other hand, with an abundance mindset, you see the world as a place of unlimited resources, and you can start planning to succeed along with everyone else. To achieve financial abundance, it’s so important to shift from a scarcity mindset to an abundant one.

Here’s how you can recognize a scarcity vs abundant mindset:

Won’t share knowledge vs. shares knowledge freely

People with a scarcity mindset are often afraid that others will take what they have. And because of this fear, they tend to hoard information and knowledge to themselves to feel like they’re in control.

But people with an abundance mindset know that there is enough for everyone! So instead of hoarding knowledge, they share it freely without hesitation or concern.

Fears change vs. embraces change

In a scarcity mindset, someone might fear change because it means that something is going to be taken away from them.

On the other hand, in an abundance mindset, people embrace change because it means there will be more opportunities and financial success for everyone.

Thinks small vs. thinks big

In a scarcity mindset, people tend to think small. They focus on the problems they face and see little opportunity to overcome them.

And if you don’t believe in your own ability to create the life you want, you can limit your own potential by choosing not to follow your dreams.

In an abundance mindset, you look for solutions that are out of the box. You take risks and think big because you believe that anything is possible!

Focuses on costs vs. focuses on results

The scarcity mindset is all about focusing on costs and results in a zero-sum game where there are only so many resources and only so much can be accomplished.

The abundance mindset, on the other hand, is all about seeing the world as full of possibilities with no limits on what amazing outcomes and results can be achieved. The power of mindset can change so much!

8 Key tips to help you create a mindset of finance abundance

Many of us think that we’ll never have enough money, and so we live our whole lives in fear of the future. And because we don’t believe it’s possible to succeed financially, we never even dare to try.

But if you begin to develop a financial abundance mindset and start to understand the financial abundance meaning, you’ll start to see that there is actually enough money in the world for everyone.

You’ll also realize that not only can you avoid living a wasted life, but you are worthy of living an abundant life just as much as anyone else. Essentially, it’s a mindset of possibility and opportunity! (Be sure to check out our list of best books about money mindset!).

Here are 8 ideas to help you change your mindset about finances:

1. Eliminate your negative beliefs about money

If you want to achieve success in your finances, you need to eliminate your money blocks and negative beliefs about money. Start viewing money as a tool and something that can help you create the life you want.

When you change your mindset about money, you open yourself up to new possibilities and allow yourself to see all the wonderful things that money can do for you.

So, how do you go about changing your mindset? Start by recognizing your limiting beliefs about money.

Then challenge your negative beliefs. For example, ask yourself why you believe that money is the root of all evil or that money is only for greedy people.

What evidence do you have to support this belief? Is there another way of looking at it? Once you have challenged your negative beliefs, focus on the positive aspects of money.

For instance, what can money do for you? And how can it help you achieve your goals?

Here are some common negative beliefs about money that could be stopping you from achieving financial abundance:

  • Rich people are greedy and corrupt.
  • I’ll never be rich enough.
  • It’s impossible to make money in today’s economy.
  • You have to be born into wealth to succeed financially.
  • Money can’t buy happiness.
  • You need a lot of money to start investing.
  • You can only make money through risky investments.
  • It’s impossible to get ahead without working hard.
  • Financial security is a myth.

Once you know what your negative money beliefs are, start to remove them from your mindset.

2. Stop comparing yourself to others

Comparing yourself to others can be mentally exhausting and often makes you feel miserable about yourself. And yet we do it all the time without even realizing that this bad habit is robbing us of our peace of mind.

Comparison can make us feel negative emotions such as envy, isolation, or a lack of confidence, which can force us into a mindset where only lack exists. The more we compare ourselves to others, the less room we have for original thought.

And without original thought, we can’t create freely. Financial abundance requires creativity, and so does anything else worth achieving in life. So never compare yourself to others and start taking inspired action instead.

3. Develop a growth mindset

Having a growth mindset means that you believe intelligence and abilities can be developed through dedication and hard work.

When you have this type of mindset, you will always be learning and expanding your horizons to search for opportunities to increase your wealth.

Also, a self growth plan and growth mindset are important to keep you motivated even in tough situations. Since you believe that you’re capable of achieving anything you set your mind to, you won’t give up as easily as those with a fixed mindset.

4. Recognize the power of your thoughts

The thoughts you entertain on a regular basis play a significant role in how successful you are financially. If you want to achieve abundance, you need to recognize the power of your thoughts and take steps to align them with your financial goals.

Your thoughts create your reality! Think about this.

If you tell yourself that you’re a failure every single day, would you be motivated or inspired to take action and change your life? Probably not. What you think influences the way you feel and the way you act.

So if you think about money problems all the time, that’s what you’ll experience. But if you focus on the positive aspects of wealth and abundance, you’ll find it easier to manifest those things in your life, especially if you use the best manifestation methods.

5. Use financial abundance affirmations

Financial abundance affirmations can help you achieve your financial goals by changing and eliminating your negative mindset about money. When you start to think positively about money and wealth, you will be more likely to take actions that lead to financial success.

So if you are having trouble maintaining a positive attitude about money, try repeating financial abundance affirmations every day.

For instance, instead of saying, “I am broke,” you would say, “I have an abundance of money!”

You might be surprised how your whole financial situation could transform just by shifting your mindset! Check out our post on 55 Financial Affirmations to get you started!

Here are some positive affirmations about money that you can use every day:

  • I have all the money I need, and I will continue to increase my income.
  • I’m great at managing money.
  • I will be a millionaire one day.

6. Express gratitude

Gratitude is one of the keys to unlocking your full potential for wealth and happiness. When you’re grateful, it’s easier to stay positive and enjoy what you have now as opposed to focusing on what you don’t have.

When you wake up in the morning, take a few minutes to think about all of the abundance in your life and be thankful for it. Or try out the 30 days of gratitude challenge.

You can even write down a list of things you’re grateful for in the notes section of your phone or in your diary. Here’s what it could look like:

I’m thankful for:

  • The fact that I have a roof over my head.
  • All of my family and friends continue to love and support me each day.
  • The money in my bank account that’ll help me buy groceries this month.
  • My healthy body.
  • The beautiful view from my balcony.
  • The clothes on my body keep me warm each day.
  • My comfortable bed.
  • The fact that I’m still alive and breathing!

7. Realize your current financial situation is temporary

If you try to think about your current financial situation as temporary, you may be able to stay motivated and achieve financial abundance in the future. Why? Because once you see your present difficulties as transient instead of permanent, they won’t seem so daunting.

Then, maybe change isn’t so difficult or impossible after all. A shift in perspective could also help you find some peace with your current circumstances by reminding yourself that there is a light at the end of the tunnel and that you will get through this.

8. Give back to the community

When it comes to developing a financial abundance mindset, one of the most important things you can do is give back and find nice things to do for people. Giving back doesn’t just help others, it also helps you to develop a more positive attitude towards money and wealth.

It teaches you to be grateful for what you have and to think beyond yourself. When you’re focused on what’s important, it becomes easier to let go of negative thoughts and emotions that can block your ability to achieve financial or money abundance.

Expert tip: Surround yourself with people who think positively

If you really want to change your financial mindset for the better, then make it a point to spend time with people who will encourage you with your goals. Positive thinkers and people who are financially successful themselves can help you a lot!

Learn from them, ask questions, and talk about your ideas. You’ll feel more connected and it helps when others are cheering you on.

How do you get financial abundance?

In order to get financial abundance, it’s important to start with your mindset. You must believe that you will succeed and that you can become wealthy and achieve your goals.

But beyond mindset, it’s important to also make a plan and get to work. Whether that means working extra hours, looking for a new job, or learning about investing, making these changes and starting your financial planning process will help shift your perspective.

What does financial abundance feel like?

Financial abundance feels like having all you need and knowing that you’ll have the money and resources you need in the future. You also feel thankful for the many blessings you have. This drives contentment. (A daily gratitude list can help with this!)

It means that you feel a sense of peace about your finances, and you know that your goals are not only possible but will become your reality.

Is abundance the same as wealth?

No, abundance is not the same as wealth. Wealth means having a lot of resources and money. Abundance means you have what is needed and more, but it is more of a mental state that goes beyond just money.

While wealth can refer specifically to money, abundance is more focused on gratitude and understanding that whatever you need financially and in your life will be made available to you.

What is the mantra for financial abundance?

There isn’t only one mantra for financial abundance. Rather, there are many, and you can choose whichever ones resonate the most with you.

You might start off using some of our mentioned affirmations to help you get to the right money mindset. But you can also come up with your own that are specific to your goals.

For example, “I will make a six-figure salary in the next year” or “I have plenty of money for all of my financial needs.”

If you enjoyed reading about how to embrace abundance in your life, then you’re going to love these posts!

Create a mindset of financial abundance!

Mindset is everything, especially when it comes to financial abundance. If you want to achieve success in any aspect of your life, you have to start off by believing that you can!

Once you see that it’s possible for you to have what you want in life, you’ll become motivated to bring that vision into your reality. This is why knowing how to make a vision board and saying financial abundance affirmations work so well for many of us.

So if you’re not currently seeing success in your financial life, it might be helpful to work on the way you think about money. By developing a financial abundance mindset, you can open up your heart and mind to new possibilities that’ll allow you to finally achieve your financial goals.

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5 Reasons Why Hard Work Is Key To Success! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/hard-work-is-key-to-success/ https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/hard-work-is-key-to-success/#respond Tue, 13 Jun 2023 21:38:00 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=18545 […]

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How many times have you heard that hard work is the key to success? Probably a lot, and it’s true! Hard work is key to success, and it’s for a variety of different reasons.

But before we dive into our reasons why being hardworking is the key to success, let’s talk about why it matters!

Hard Work Is Key To Success

Why does working hard even matter?

Well, simply said, hard work leads to success. I’m living proof of that.

Several years ago, I knew I needed to make a change that would require me to work harder than I had ever before. I wanted to move back into management in the nonprofit sector.

One of the issues I was coming across in my career change was not having a bachelor’s degree. I had an associate’s, which was great for where I was but not the next step.

For the next two years, I dedicated myself to getting my bachelor’s while continuing to work full time. It was HARD. I worked from 7 am to 4 pm as a teacher then went to class every weeknight from 6 pm to 9 pm.

I did my homework when I could during breaks and I leveraged time blocks. On Saturdays, I would write an essay instead of hanging out with friends. And on Sundays, I spent the whole day catching up on sleep and prepping for the week ahead.

During those two years, people knew me as a hard worker. I had to be in order to be committed and dedicated for two years!

As a result of my reputation, several job offers found their way to me post-graduation. Because of this experience and others, I believe that hard work is key to success.

5 Reasons why being hardworking is the key to success!

I already shared my story with you and now I’m going to share why hard work is the key to success and how it can pay off in your own life.

Not only will hard work get you appreciation from others and more opportunities, but there is also a lot of personal growth that results from it. Here are the reasons why you should work hard!

1. Hard work motivates and rewards you

Being a hard worker is rewarding. When we work hard, we can see our success and achievements. And the whole process of hard work can be a reward in itself that can help you become a better person and keep you moving in the right direction.

Success isn’t everything, but seeing how far you’ve come is motivating. Especially with big projects such as going back to school or working hard to snag a promotion at work.

2. Hard work shows you are dependable

Another reason why being hardworking is the key to success is because it shows you are dependable. When you’re someone people can count on, people will keep you in mind. After all, why not?

People will start to talk when you’re known for working hard in your field. At the workplace, people might start asking you to be on their team or want your help to oversee any projects they may need assistance with.

If you own your own business, your products, and/or services could become the first choice for your customers because of your dependability.

People want someone who’s going to get things done on their side, and based on your hard work, they’ll know who to call. People wanting to work with you is an excellent example of how hard work leads to success!

Hardwork is key to success

3. Hard work shows commitment

For myself, when I decide on a path for myself and work hard to get there, I’m committed to that goal. This means I might have to say no to anything that comes up that does not align with my purpose or path.

Saying no to things that don’t serve you and staying focused while working hard shows commitment. Your commitment is what is going to help you succeed in the workplace and/or in business.

Choosing to be dedicated to your work can have both financial and career benefits, so it is worth it.

4. It helps you develop self-discipline

Hard work means that you are able to develop your self-discipline over time. Procrastination can set you up for failure when trying to achieve the simplest tasks.

Giving in to distractions can lead to idleness, but the opposite is true, also. When you are focused on being a good worker self-discipline will follow. It’s another reason why hard work is key to success!

And in addition to discipline, you can gain other good qualities such as patience and persistence. The character quality of self-discipline can also be useful for sticking to your financial and personal goals.

Be sure to check out our list of best books on self-discipline!

5. The harder you work, the quicker you get ahead

You already know by now that hard work pays off. The harder you work, the faster you get the results you want. But working hard doesn’t always mean that you’ll be able to get everything you want on the first or even second try.

You have to be patient and trust that hard work leads to success. What you put in now will get you ahead later.

Expert tip

Hard work matters but it’s also important to work smart! I’m a big fan of working smart, because that way I’m not wasting time, I’m able to identify opportunities and can effectively take action toward my success.

5 Key tips to embrace hard work because hard work is the key to success

Now that you know why hard work is key to success, here are some tips for working smarter, not harder.

1. Keep a log of your accomplishments to keep you motivated

I have ADHD, but even without a disability, it’s hard to remember everything you do so that you can be acknowledged for it later on via a promotion or raise.

By printing out emails as they come in or jotting down the results of projects or even compliments you receive you can create documentation of all of your accomplishments.

For me, having all of my achievements at hand made it that much easier to go back to my boss to ask for a promotion when I felt I had earned it.

A hardworking person can earn more money or move up in their career as a result of preparation and strategic actions like logging their accomplishments.

2. Post professional updates on social media

Sometimes your hard work leads to success but other times may go unnoticed. While that can be frustrating, know that you can fix that by sharing your accomplishments on social media.

LinkedIn is an excellent professional tool that’s free. So if you aren’t already utilizing it to its full potential, we have a Clever Girl Finance LinkedIn Course that’s completely FREE and can help.

By sharing your professional updates on a consistent basis with your network, people will keep you in mind the next time an opportunity with your name on it presents itself.

Plus you’ll gain momentum to continue as you see your accomplishments growing, proving that being hardworking is the key to success.

3. Set SMART Goals

Commitment is an excellent characteristic for anyone, but it’s easy to commit to the wrong thing if you don’t know where you’re going. Having goals can help you not only make new things into habits but also keep you focused.

Consider setting SMART Goals based on your to-do’s to get you further with your career and finances. SMART goals are Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, and Time-Bound.

When you know how to set the right goals, you’ll know what to focus on with laser precision and you’ll achieve them much faster. Hard work is key to success, especially when you focus on what you want to accomplish.

4. Gamify your results and treat yourself

Maybe it’s the ADHD I mentioned above, but one of the ways I’m able to hit my commitment goals is to make them into a game with a fun reward at the end. For me, it’s hard sometimes knowing that I have to do something repetitive, like working out.

I know I should work out and that it’s good for me. But having to do it week in and week out sometimes gets overwhelming. And that can be with anything you need to commit to and work hard on.

But making your goals into a game may give you a greater degree of satisfaction when you do well and help you get rid of bad habits and replace them with better ones.

So break down your commitment into smaller, more manageable steps, and then treat yourself at the end. For example, if I need to work out four times a week, I will give myself $10 extra spending money to have fun. How else am I going to fund my gardening hobby?!

5. Plan out your schedule and utilize time management

I mentioned above that I’m able to stay committed by “gamifying” my results, but my other secret to getting ahead with hard work? A good old-fashioned paper planner!

When you’re working hard, it’s hard to balance everything and even harder to keep track. Time is limited, which is why time management is your friend, and many successful individuals operate this way.

Make a list of everything that you need to do every week. Then sit with your planner and figure out how you’re going to schedule your week.

Only when we see our week in advance can we plan properly. You can also take advantage of time blocking to make sure you get things done.

By using a planner, you can manage your time to get ahead quicker while still taking time for yourself and other important things when they come your way.

Who said, “Hard work is the key to success”?

Hard work is the key to success” is quite a popular saying that doesn’t have just one source. It is commonly attributed to Vince Lombardi, and John Carmack, amongst others.

What are the key points for hard work?

When it comes to hard work, the key is to have a vision, create specific goals to get there, and then take intentional ongoing action to make progress.

Setbacks are inevitable but as long as you pick yourself back up and consistently keep doing what you need to, even if it means stepping out of your comfort zone, success is inevitable.

If you enjoyed this article on how to achieve success, check out this related content:

In the end, hard work is key to success!

When you’re a disciplined person, people know it. No one will ever question what you do because they know you are reliable, dependable, and committed. Plus your hard work will pay off in dividends as you start to see results in achieving the goals you have set for your life.

Being hardworking is the key to success, so don’t feel that it’s a waste of time. You can work hard by practicing perseverance, sharing your success stories, and continuing to avoid laziness. Keep your eyes on the prize and keep striving!

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6 Money Mindset Exercises To Try Today https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/money-mindset-exercises/ Wed, 03 May 2023 22:18:12 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=49159 […]

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Money mindset exercises are a must when you’re setting up financial goals because, without the right mindset, it’s near impossible to make positive changes in your life. Regardless of where you are on your financial journey, these practices help you stay motivated. Let’s keep you on track and ready to achieve your goals with abundance mindset exercises!

Money mindset exercises

What are money mindset exercises?

Money mindset exercises are practices that you do to change how you think about money and wealth. Because your perception of money impacts the way you earn, save, and spend it. All of which affect how you manage your finances and build wealth.

Since childhood, you were surrounded by beliefs, judgments, and ideas about money. Not to mention that your own experiences with money influenced how you view it too.

Whether you consciously think about your understanding of money or not, you carry these notions and judgments with you. And they show up in how you manage your finances.

Abundance mindset exercises help you discover and examine your beliefs about money. Then, you can look closely at the ways you earn, save, and spend your dollars to see how these beliefs are driving your actions.

Why do you need to do money mindset exercises?

You can learn to think differently about finances by changing your mindset. Rewiring the brain is a fascinating process called neuroplasticity. Basically, it’s using attitudes of mindfulness to redirect thoughts and change habits.

Financial mindset exercises help you become aware of your thoughts and redirect them. When you practice mindfulness and change your habits, you use new parts of the brain. That’s when the rewiring happens, and you create new pathways in your brain.

The task of building wealth is a long and winding road, especially if you grew up without money and are a member of a marginalized community. These mindset exercises can help you stay motivated. Because a huge part of the challenge is staying in the right abundance mindset.

Money mindset exercises to try

Money is a tool that humans created to make exchanging goods and services easier. But because we need it to survive and thrive, we’ve attached emotions and beliefs to it.

Unfortunately, those emotions and beliefs tend to run the show, whether we are conscious of them or not. The good news is you can redirect your thoughts with abundance mindset exercises. Check them out!

1. Look to the past

Being aware of what you tell yourself about money is a great start. Once you get those thoughts out, you can use money mindset exercises to shift them to the positive.

Start journaling to find out what you truly think about money. If you’re having difficulties identifying your limiting beliefs about money, remember they came from somewhere.

So, thinking about where you got them from is also a good place to start. Did they come from the way your family talked about money, teachings from church, or your own experiences?

Similarly, think about times when you felt shame, guilt, or disappointment around money. When do these feelings show up in your adult life?

For instance, do you feel guilty wanting more money – getting a big promotion or making more money in your business? Why?

When you’ve gotten your thoughts down on paper, it will be easier to see what you need to change.

2. Examine your current money situation

The challenge of financial mindset exercises is that you can only see if they’re working if you’re also taking action. That being said, you cannot improve a situation if you don’t know what’s going on.

If you’ve been avoiding looking at your credit card statements or bank accounts, now is the time to do that.

Likewise, you can’t create a budget that will work for you if you don’t know how much money you’re earning or spending.

For that, you may want to start a spending journal. The goal of which is to help you identify your spending habits and where your money is going. A spending diary will also show you where you can improve.

Basically, you need to look over your finances and see what is going well and what needs improvement. This may include habits for saving, spending, investing, or a combination.

3. Practice compassion for yourself

Since money is a huge part of our survival, we see every financial mistake as wasting money. Although that may be true in some situations, that’s not always the case.

Some mistakes are necessary for us to learn lessons and grow as a person. So if you’ve been berating yourself for past money mistakes, it’s time to stop (and maybe try some confidence building exercises to help)!

Forgive yourself and shift to money mindset exercises instead. Four ways to practice self-compassion are to take care of your body, write down your feelings, be positive towards yourself, and add mindfulness to your life.

4. Be grounded in gratitude

When you’re grounded in gratitude, you’re saying that you’re content with life. But you’re also happily anticipating more good things to come. That’s why it’s one of the best abundance mindset exercises.

Oftentimes, we only feel grateful when we get the big goals we’ve been working on, like a promotion, a new car, or a house. Of course, there’s nothing wrong with celebrating the big wins.

But those can be few and far between. It’s also unsustainable to keep chasing success and material satisfaction to feel grateful.

Practice money mindset exercises by being grateful for the small things every day. When you start with the small things as part of your daily gratitude list, you’ll always have something to be thankful for.

Be grateful you opened your eyes as you get out of bed. Be grateful you have running water as you take a shower or brush your teeth. Find more ways to be grateful in our 30 days of gratitude challenge!

5. Make a list of how you want money to show up in your life

Make a list of the things that make you happy and light your soul on fire. It doesn’t matter if you think they’re outrageous, and they’re never going to happen in a million years. Write down everything you would like to have and experience if money is no object.

Then, make another list of practical financial goals you want to achieve in the next 30 days, 3 months, and 3 years. Maybe you want to build up your emergency fund or start sinking funds for a family vacation or purchase.

Make a plan for each of your goals. Figure out how much money you need to save and how much you can truly afford to put away each month. Update your plan each month to check on your progress.

How about the first list you made? Pick one and make it your big hairy audacious goal.

6. Keep showing up for yourself

One of the most effective money mindset exercises is showing up for yourself relentlessly.

This happens when you read abundance mindset books and learn about how to invest for your financial future. Or, if you’ve been dealing with chronic debt, showing up for yourself is getting help to tackle your debts once and for all.

Showing up for yourself may not be the same every day. But you do it when you journal, meditate, and say positive money affirmations.

Listen to personal finance podcasts, read blogs, and watch YouTube channels to learn how to stay positive in a negative world. Call your bank to negotiate your interests or join a savings challenge.

No one can do this for you. So, show up for yourself every day, tirelessly.

Expert tip: Become conscious of your thinking

Having the right money mindset is all about being conscious of your thinking and choices. In addition to learning from your past and present money situations, you also need to balance this with compassion for yourself and an understanding of where you want to be in the future.

Money mindset questions to ask yourself

Being intentional with your thoughts means knowing what they are and where you got them from. So, here are some money mindset questions to ask yourself to figure out your beliefs about money and wealth.

How was money talked about in your family?

The way you think about money and react to it can be tracked all the way from childhood. Be patient with yourself if you can’t remember much. Answer these additional questions to get started.

Did your parents talk openly about money? What feelings did they express in these conversations – anxiety, anger, excitement, etc?

If your family didn’t talk about money, how do you feel about discussing your finances as an adult? In your life now, can you see similarities in how you feel, talk, and handle money the way your family did?

What are your experiences with money?

Needless to say, your experiences with money impact how you manage it today.

For instance, if you never got what you wanted as a kid, you may be the adult with money spending problems who spends everything you earn. It’s as if you’re trying to make up for all the times you didn’t get what you asked for.

As you look back and try to connect your money habits to your past, you will not always get such a clear-cut explanation. But spend time thinking about it and see what comes up.

What common beliefs about money have you heard a lot about growing up?

Perhaps you’ve heard, “Money is the root of all evil,” or “Money doesn’t grow on trees,” or “You have to sacrifice to make money,” etc. Are these phrases familiar?

You’ve probably heard them before, along with; “to serve God means you can’t want more money,” “the only way to make lots of money is to go to college and have a secure job,” or “you can’t make money doing what you love.”

Which ones of these are you subscribing to? Have you thought about whether they’re true or not?

Find out what money myths you believe and explore some common beliefs about money that may be harmful to your financial well-being.

How do you view poor people?

Continue your exploration by considering what you think about poor people.

Some common views about poor people are they’re bad with money or have bad money habits, they’re not trying hard enough, and they just want a handout.

Do you share the same opinions? If you experienced poverty, do these ideas align with your experience?

How do you view rich people?

It’s fascinating how the poor and rich are represented if you think about it. Because the rich aren’t described favorably either. Some popular views about rich people include they’re greedy, they don’t work hard, and they just got lucky.

The thing is, would you be excited to work towards your goal of being financially sound if you see rich people as selfish, entitled, and demanding?

Some of us have judgments and beliefs about money that we’re not even aware of. And doing money mindset exercises helps you uncover these narratives that may be holding you back from achieving your financial goals.

What do you actually believe about money?

Some of the beliefs we hold onto from childhood and painful money experiences may not be rational. But they drive the way we earn, save, and spend money nonetheless.

Look at your answers to the money mindset questions and relate your answers to your financial situation now. Can you spot patterns in your life, such as you can’t get out of debt?

Take some time to identify money values that you agree with consciously but you do the opposite of in your life.

For instance, do you spend all your money as soon as you get it, even though you want to save? Or maybe it’s the opposite – you restrict yourself from spending on luxuries and necessities even if you can afford them.

Identifying your actions and beliefs can help you to align them in your life.

What is the best type of money mindset?

The best type of money mindset is one that allows you to continually grow and improve. Rather than staying stuck with negative beliefs, you can constantly try to make your mindset align with what you truly think.

How do you instantly make your mindset better regarding money?

A great way to instantly improve your mindset is to believe that no matter how far you have to go, you are capable of achieving your money dreams. Even if your finances don’t look the way you want, keep telling yourself that you will find a way to change it, and then look for ways to do just that!

How do you continually practice an abundance mindset?

Whenever you catch yourself repeatedly thinking negative things about money, remind yourself of something positive instead. For example, instead of worrying about debt, be proud that you made a budget this month.

More money mindset articles

If you liked reading about money mindsets, check out these articles next:

Money mindset exercises can improve your finances and life!

Changing the way you think about money for the better can only help you. In fact, it may help you build wealth for yourself and generational wealth for your family!

Whether you start with answering money mindset questions or looking for ways to think more positively, do one of the money mindset exercises today! And then, do them again and again and again until it’s easy to believe that you’ll achieve financial wellness. Cheering you on!

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21 Money Myths To Rid Your Mind Of Today! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/money-myths/ Wed, 19 Apr 2023 13:04:45 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=48418 […]

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Money myths

Managing money can be challenging, especially when there are so many money myths and misconceptions floating around.

These financial myths can be detrimental to your financial well-being. They can lead you to make poor decisions, cause you to overspend, discourage you from seeking help or understanding, and cause lots of stress.

Don't worry, that doesn’t have to happen to you! Here, we explore 21 money myths so you can avoid falling into these traps.

1. Money is the root of all evil (The top money myth!)

This is a popular saying, but it is not entirely accurate. Money itself isn't evil; In fact, it is a misquoted bible verse. The verse states,For the love of money is the root of all evil”. (1 Timothy 6:10, KJV)

Money itself isn’t evil; It is the attitudes and behaviors surrounding money that can be problematic.

In fact, money can be used for so much good!

Money can be used for big things, like supporting charities or funding research. But don’t forget about the everyday things that money does, too, like making your life more comfortable and freeing up your time and energy for doing what you love.

Instead of demonizing money, reframe how you think about it and focus on using it responsibly and purposefully.

2. You can’t negotiate your bills

Many people assume that their bills, such as their cable, cell phone, or even medical bills, are non-negotiable. However, this is not always the case.

You can often negotiate your bills by calling and asking your service provider for a discount or a lower rate. It may take some persistence, but it can save you hundreds of dollars each year.

3. Building generational wealth is only for the rich

How is it that the rich just seem to get richer and richer as the generations go on? The answer?

Generational wealth. This is wealth that is passed down from generation to generation.

Many people fall victim to financial myths about family wealth.

The truth is that anyone can build generational wealth (we love money truths!) by doing things such as investing their money wisely and making smart financial decisions.

While it’s not an easy feat, especially if you are one of the first in your family to think about things like this, it’s certainly doable and a worthy goal to have.

4. Personal finance is confusing and complicated

One of the biggest myths Clever Girl Finance works to combat is that personal finance is confusing and complicated and should be left to the professionals. This is simply not true!

You can manage your money effectively by educating yourself about personal finance and creating a financial plan.

There are so many resources available, such as Clever Girl Finance’s 100% free courses, books, blogs, and podcasts, that can empower you on your journey to learning more about personal finance.

5. You should always buy the cheapest option

While choosing the cheapest option might be tempting, it may not always be the best choice. Thinking that you should always buy the cheapest item is one of the worst financial myths around.

This is especially true for one area where many people spend a lot of money – their clothes. Fast fashion is cheap and convenient, but it’s not good for your wallet.

In general, cheaper options may not last as long, require more maintenance, or be of lower quality. In some cases, it's more cost-effective to invest in a higher-quality item that will last longer and require less upkeep.

6. It's impossible to have fun and save money at the same time

Saving money doesn't mean you have to sacrifice fun and enjoyment! There are so many ways to enjoy life without breaking the bank.

Look for free or low-cost activities, like hiking, visiting a museum, or having a picnic.

Additionally, consider alternative ways to enjoy your hobbies, such as borrowing books from the library instead of buying them or renting equipment instead of purchasing it.

7. You need tons of money to start investing (A wealth-limiting money myth!)

Investing can be intimidating, especially if you believe you need lots of money to get started.

However, that is definitely not the case! You can absolutely start investing with just a small amount of money.

Many investment platforms allow you to start with as little as $5 or $10, and there are plenty of low-cost index funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) that can help you diversify your portfolio without breaking the bank. The key is to be consistent and start small with your contributions.

8. Credit cards are bad for your finances

There are advantages and disadvantages to using credit cards. Credit cards can certainly be useful for building credit, but they can also be harmful if used irresponsibly.

One of the most prevalent money myths is that credit cards are bad for your finances and that you should avoid them.

That’s not true at all. The key is to use credit cards wisely, which means paying off your balance in full each month and avoiding high-interest debt.

9. Renting means you’re throwing money away

Many people believe that renting is a waste of money because you do not build equity in a property.

While it is true that renting does not build equity, it can still be a smart financial decision depending on your circumstances.

Renting a home can be more affordable than owning one. It can also give you more flexibility if you need to move frequently for work or personal reasons.

Buying a home can be a wise investment, but it might not be the best choice for you. Buying a home comes with many expenses, including property taxes, maintenance, and repairs, which can add up quickly.

Don’t let common money myths like this one make you feel like you “should” buy a home when renting makes more sense for you.

10. Having a balance on your credit card can help your credit score

This is a very common financial myth, and it can lead to high-interest debt and financial stress. A balance on your credit card does not help your credit score; in fact, the opposite is true – it can actually hurt it!

The very best way to improve your score is by paying off your balance in full every single month and keeping your credit utilization low.

11. You can’t retire until you’re 65 years old (or older)

While 66 is the age at which you can start receiving full Social Security benefits, you can retire at any time as long as you have enough to support yourself.

You can receive Social Security retirement benefits as early as age 62. However, your benefit will be reduced if you start receiving benefits before your full retirement age.

The sooner you begin retirement planning, the better off you’ll be later.

Even if you are only able to save a tiny amount each month, it’s better than nothing. Your future self will be thankful when you can leave the workforce far earlier than you expected!

12. Investing is hard

Investing might sound scary to a beginner, but it’s not as complicated as it initially appears. There are lots of resources that can help you learn how to invest your money in the best way.

Looking for a place to learn about investing? Try one of Clever Girl Finance’s free investing courses! You’ll learn all the basics about investing and be on your way to reaching your financial goals by leveraging the power of investing.

13. Your 401(k) can serve as your emergency fund

While it’s true that you can borrow from your 401(k) in an emergency, never rely on it as your primary emergency fund.

You should strive to have a separate emergency fund with at least three or up to six months’ worth of expenses saved up. This will help you pay for unexpected expenses without ever having to dip into your retirement savings.

14. You can't save if you have debt

Having debt can make it challenging to save money, but it is not impossible. The key is to prioritize your debt payments while still making an effort to save and cut back on expenses.

Begin by setting a savings goal and creating a budget that allows you to make regular debt payments while still saving a small amount each month.

Look for categories where you can cut back on your spending. Dining out or entertainment are usually great places to start.

Additionally, there are many debt repayment strategies available, such as the snowball or avalanche method, that can help you pay off your debt more efficiently.

15. If you have a credit card, you don’t need an emergency fund

An emergency fund is a key part of any financial plan.

One of the most detrimental money myths floating around is that a credit card can serve in place of an emergency fund. Don’t fall for this!

An emergency fund's purpose is for covering unexpected costs, such as a medical bill or car repair, without having to rely on credit cards or loans.

Except as a last resort (or if you plan to pay off the amount, in full, by the end of the month), credit cards shouldn't be used in place of an emergency fund.

16. You should pay off your mortgage as soon as possible

While it is true that paying off your mortgage quickly can save you money on high-interest payments, it may not be the best choice for everyone.

If you have high-interest debt or other financial goals, it’s often better to prioritize those goals instead of paying off your mortgage early.

17. Don't worry about retirement until you’re older

This is one of those common money myths that are absolutely false.

Retirement may seem like a far-off goal, but it is important to start planning for it as early as possible. The sooner you begin saving cash, the better.

In fact, it’s wise to start saving for retirement as soon as you start working. As proof that it’s never too early to start saving for retirement, even teenagers working part-time jobs can benefit from this type of saving and investing!

18. Student loans are the best way to finance education

Don’t be fooled by this myth targeted at young people: taking out student loans isn't your only option to finance your education. It’s not the only way to pay for school.

In fact, you can explore other ways of paying for school, such as scholarships, grants, work-study programs, or even delaying college for a year or two to save up money.

19. You can never pay off debt

While it might feel like you will never be debt free, don’t believe this myth! With hard work and dedication, anyone can pay off their debt and achieve financial freedom, no matter how high their debt might currently be.

One approach to paying off debt faster is by paying off high-interest debt first while making minimum payments on other debts. Remember, you are not alone in feeling like you are drowning in debt, and there is a way out.

20. Money is a private topic and you shouldn’t talk about it with others

Money can be a sensitive topic for some, but it’s important to talk about it openly and honestly with your loved ones. This is especially true for the people you are making financial decisions with.

What does talking about money look like? It might include discussing your financial goals, creating a budget together, disclosing your salary, or even seeking out professional financial advice as a family.

Whatever you do, don’t be afraid to share your finances with those you trust.

21. Money can’t buy happiness (The greatest financial myth!)

Money can’t buy happiness. Or can it?

This is one of the money myths that nobody can seem to agree on. While it’s a complicated concept, there is definitely truth to the fact that money can buy happiness – to an extent.

Money can’t buy happiness in and of itself, but it can provide a means to the things we value in life, such as free time and peace of mind. Money will always be a big part of our lives, identities, and well-being.

Don't get stuck by believing these money myths!

Managing your finances can be difficult, but it is possible to avoid being duped by any of these common money myths.

By educating yourself about this and knowing how to stay away from the myths, you can achieve your goals and improve your financial well-being.

As you learn, you'll also become better at understanding money topics and making smart choices for your finances.

The post 21 Money Myths To Rid Your Mind Of Today! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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How To Protect Your Peace: 11 Tips For Everyday Peace Of Mind https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/protect-your-peace/ Wed, 15 Mar 2023 13:48:59 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=46881 […]

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Protect your peace

Sometimes it can feel like there is negativity everywhere you look. From stress at work to nerve-wracking headlines in the news to rude comments from strangers online. It can all get really overwhelming when you want to protect your peace.

While you can't rid your life of negativity entirely (after all, that's life!), you can take steps to reduce their impact on your state of mind.

What does it mean to protect your peace?

Protecting your peace is all about caring for yourself—physically, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually.

It's a personal journey

Above all, it is a personal journey. It is up to you to define what peace looks like for you and your life. You get to set the rules, and you get to make the decisions.

Importantly, you must remember that you can't get the answer to peace or happiness from other people. Instead, take the time to ask yourself: "What does it mean to me to protect my peace?"

It takes time

Not only is learning to protect your peace a personal journey, but it's also a lifelong journey!

This is not something you can accomplish in one day.

Rather, it's about developing the skills to make yourself feel more at ease with your own life. And as you grow and change, your own definition of "protecting my peace" will likely grow and change with you.

Why protecting your peace is important

Fundamentally, protecting your peace is about protecting yourself—your mind, your emotions, your body, and your soul. And it goes without saying how important that is!

Your life is more positive and healthy

When you develop the skills to protect your peace, you will learn how to keep your mental and emotional state free from negative influences.

In turn, this will help you feel safe and respected, which contributes to overall healthy well-being. Notably, a new study from the Journal of Happiness Studies even reports that peace of mind is associated with life satisfaction and contributes substantially to one's subjective well-being.

11 Ways to protect your peace every day

Consider this your new daily mantra: "Protecting my peace is a lifelong journey. There is no reason to put pressure on myself to learn how to protect my peace all at once."

Instead, it's all about being mindful and deliberately making choices to limit your exposure to things that make you feel bad and increase your exposure to things that make you feel good. It's that simple!

1. Set boundaries

The word itself can sound intense, but boundaries don't have to be intimidating. Instead, you can think of them as guidelines to live by.

Boundaries help you honor your needs, feelings, goals, and values. Like your definition of peace, they will likely evolve as you do—and you can change them whenever you want.

There are many different kinds of boundaries that you can use to work on developing your peace of mind.

Boundaries with friends and family

For example, if your family doesn't get along with your partner, you can set a personal boundary when it comes time for holidays or family events: "If you can't be polite and respectful to me and my partner, then we will leave."

You can also set boundaries for yourself, like financial boundaries.

For example, maybe you like eating out with a friend, but she always insists on splitting the bill—even when she orders three cocktails and an appetizer, and you only ate one entrée.

Set a boundary. The next time she invites you to go out, you can say, "I want to go out to dinner with you, but I cannot split the bill 50/50."

2. Distance yourself from unsupportive people

Whatever way you slice it, there are some people who just bring you down in life.

Of course, having to be around people you don't necessarily like or agree with is just part of reality sometimes. While you can't always avoid these people, you can set limits for yourself to protect your peace.

Set limits

For example, maybe you can't always avoid a co-worker that can be a bit of a know-it-all. But that friend of a friend who's always bragging about her latest vacation and low-key criticizing your clothes? You don't have to put up with her.

The next time you're invited to one of her parties, don't feel the pressure to conform: You simply don't have to go if you don't feel like it. That protects your peace (and your night!) from being ruined.

Learning to distance yourself from unsupportive people can help reduce your stress and make you feel happier overall. After all, life is too short to deal with unsupportive people.

3. Don't take things too personally

As you take daily steps to protect your peace, don't forget to give yourself this healthy reminder: "It's not all about me."

This statement is not only humbling but empowering.

Consider: We all say or do things now and again that hurt others by mistake. Did we mean it? No. Do we feel bad? Yes.

Then we can remember this and also cut other people some slack, too.

Move on

Every time you feel hurt by something, it doesn't mean someone was actively trying to hurt you. Sometimes, the best thing you can do when feeling hurt is just to learn to shake things off and move on.

This doesn't mean that your feelings aren't valid. Because they are.

But it's also important to remember that the world doesn't revolve around our feelings and that we can take the time to take care of ourselves without taking everything so personally.

4. Learn to practice stoicism

If you're having a hard time learning to shake things off and not take things too personally, consider exploring stoicism to help protect your peace.

Stoicism is a philosophy founded in the Hellenistic period founded on four virtues: courage, temperance, justice, and wisdom.

Essentially, this philosophy is all about acknowledging that change will happen—and learning to stay resilient in the face of change.

Learn more about how stoicism can help you cultivate a newfound peace of mind at the Daily Stoic.

5. Find peace of mind through meditation

Do you feel like you've been reading about the benefits of meditation everywhere lately? There's a reason! According to the Mayo Clinic, "Meditation can wipe away the day's stress, bringing with it inner peace."

Sound too good to be true? Why not give it a try?

You don't have to meditate every day to experience its benefits, nor do you have to meditate for a long time.

But by making meditation a regular habit, you can unlock some pretty powerful consequences, like increased self-awareness, reduced negative emotions, and increased patience and tolerance.

6. Set limits on social media and news

Does reading the news make your blood pressure rise? Do you feel bad about yourself after getting caught in a social media scroll? You're not the only one.

According to Penn Medicine News, "social media use actually increases depression and loneliness."

Moreover, the American Psychological Association reports that "more exposure to the latest headlines—whether through traditional news outlets or highlighted on social media—can undercut mental health."

Of course, you probably don't want to cut out social media and the news entirely. After all, they do have their benefits.

But taking breaks from social media and reading the news can offer you some respite and help you feel more at peace in your own life.

7. Know that you can't change the way that others act

This goes hand in hand with stoicism and learning to set boundaries. No matter how hard you try, it isn't possible to change what other people will say or do.

What you can change, however, is how you react. Once you learn and accept this phenomenon, you can unlock a whole new level of peace.

For example, if a family member always makes unkind comments at every family gathering ... stop fighting it. Know that this person is (likely) not going to change. And there's nothing you can do about that.

But you can set healthy boundaries and protect your peace. And you can change the way you respond to your family member's comments—and how much you expose yourself to that person.

Ultimately, you have to learn how to find peace on your own—instead of waiting for others around you to change.

8. Avoid unnecessary conflicts

You can't control what others say or do ... but it does take two to tango. And it does take two to fight.

In other words, a colleague's, family member's, or anyone else's nasty comment can only turn into a conflict if you let it. Fair or not fair, it is up to you to be responsible for your own peace.

So instead of giving into the drama and the provocation, learn to walk away and consider, "how do I protect my peace in this situation?"

You don't have to respond to your colleague's negative comment. You don't have to give attention to your family member's criticism. Instead, you can turn the other cheek.

And fewer conflicts mean less stress (and more peace!) in your life.

9. Remember to be grateful

Whatever hardships you're currently facing in life, remember that there are always things to be thankful for. But life happens, and sometimes we forget this.

That's why it's essential to take the time to practice gratitude.

You can take big or small steps to practice gratitude. For example, you can start a gratitude journal and write in it every day.

Or you can just turn to your gratitude journal when you're feeling stressed or depressed and need some help to get a little perspective.

Believe it or not, these small steps can go a long way in helping you build and protect your peace of mind. According to Harvard Health Publishing, "gratitude is strongly and consistently associated with greater happiness."

10. Focus on your financial wellness

A really smart thing you can do for your peace of mind—for both today and the future—is to focus on your financial wellness.

After all, when you know that you have the financial means to take care of yourself ... that peace of mind is priceless.

Whether you consider yourself a personal finance maven or you feel totally lost when it comes to saving and investing, it's always a good time to work on your financial wellness.

And no matter how little you think you know about finance, know that it is never too late to start educating yourself and taking steps to improve your finances.

Get started with these 11 financial wellness tips!

11. Take time for self-care

You might wonder, "how can self-care help me with protecting my peace?" There's a reason self-care is such a hot topic right now. It has big mental, emotional, and physical benefits—and it sure feels good, too!

For example, according to Mental Health First Aid, in a national survey, 64% of Americans said self-care enhanced their self-confidence, 67% said self-care increased their productivity, and 71% said it increased their happiness.

The best part about self-care is that there are so many ways to treat yourself. Better yet, it doesn't have to cost you a lot of money—or any at all.

To practice self-care, you can:

  • Go for a walk
  • Take a bath
  • Watch your favorite TV show
  • Browse your favorite bookstore
  • Call a friend
  • Journal

Check out more inspiration for a self-care Sunday.

Protect your peace a little bit each day!

Protecting your peace is a life-long journey. But once you start, you can feel the benefits every day.

Mentally, physically, emotionally, and even financially, there's so much you can gain when you take the time to work on your peace of mind.

In fact, you can get started learning how to cultivate your financial peace of mind today as you also work towards having a healthy mindset!

The post How To Protect Your Peace: 11 Tips For Everyday Peace Of Mind appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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How To Avoid Having A Broke Mindset https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/broke-mindset/ Sat, 18 Feb 2023 16:52:14 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=44468 […]

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Broke Mindset

When it comes to managing our finances, having a broke mindset is a big disadvantage. But in reality, most of us are conditioned to incorporate negative ways of thinking about money into our lives.

The good news is it’s possible to transform your mindset, which could lead to positive changes in your financial situation.

Let’s talk about what a broke mindset is. Plus, we will explore how to transform this mentality starting today!

What is a broke mindset?

The hallmark of a broke mindset is the feeling that you don’t have enough money. Regardless of your bank account balance, anyone with negative thoughts about money feels like their number is never enough.

In many cases, this thought process is caught up in the idea that more money will lead to more happiness. And without a specific dollar amount on hand, you might feel like you never have enough to truly be happy.

Usually, thinking like you're broke cultivates negative thoughts about money. When you have negative emotions wrapped up in your financial decisions, it often has a negative impact on your financial picture.

How to tell if you have a broke mindset

Money mindset issues are often easy to spot. But unless you are looking for the signs, you might push your broke mentality under the rug.

It’s time to shine a spotlight on your money mindset to determine if you are thinking correctly about it. If you catch yourself making the following money moves, you might have the wrong money mindset.

Thinking about money all the time

Money management is a key part of a stable life. However, money isn’t the only issue at play in our lives.

Coco Chanel said it best, “The best things in life are free. The second-best things are very, very expensive.”

If you are focused on the very expensive parts of life, then you might be living with negative thoughts about money. But if you focus on the free things in life, like your relationships, health, and happiness, you likely have a positive mentality.

Spending on credit

If you spend on credit, you aren’t alone. According to a TransUnion report, the average credit card user carries a balance of $5,474.

With an average APR sitting at nearly 20%, the costs of spending with credit can add up quickly.

Whipping out your credit card might feel good at the moment. But paying for splurges on a credit card is usually tied to a broke mindset.

Putting wants before needs

Everyone has specific needs to keep their household afloat. A few basics include housing, transportation, and food. If you have a negative mindset, you might push to buy things that you don’t necessarily need before covering your basic expenses.

Ask yourself what you truly need. If you’ve been skipping past your needs to cover your splurges, that’s usually a sign that something should change.

For example, let’s say you’ve been skipping your routine doctor’s visits to cover upgrades to your wardrobe. That might mean you are focusing on the wrong things.

Avoiding saving money

Saving money is key to building a bright financial future. Without savings on hand, you are more likely to get stuck taking out loans to cover unexpected expenses.

But someone with a broke mentality might avoid saving in favor of spending on splurge purchases.

Of course, there is nothing wrong with splurging on fun things now and then. However, always choosing to splurge on an immediate purchase over saving for your long-term future is a bad habit.

Sticking with a scarcity mindset

A scarcity mindset will focus on everything you don't have. For example, you might constantly compare your life to others. Someone will always have more than you, especially if you are looking at their carefully curated social media feed.

But at the same time, you might have more than enough to take care of your needs and wants.

If you find it difficult to count your blessings, then a scarcity mindset might be pushing you to feel broke all the time.

Broke mindset Infograhic

How do you avoid the wrong mindset?

A broke mentality can hold you back from achieving your financial dreams, so it's important to gain knowledge and save more in order to avoid thinking negatively like this.

Build your financial literacy

The first way to combat a broke mindset is to build your financial literacy. The more you understand about managing your finances, the more in control you’ll feel.

When you know more about your financial choices, you might take action to improve your situation. Knowledge about money is a key way to change your mind. Reading books about finance is a really good place to start.

Empower yourself about money matters

Empowerment can push you to take control of your financial future. When you combine an attitude of empowerment with your newfound financial literacy, you can transform your mindset.

Empowered women confidently make savvy financial decisions. Instead of feeling trapped by a broke mentality, you can dive into building a brighter financial future.

Build your savings habit

Learning to save money consistently is like building a habit. Although it might not come naturally, you can build your savings habit over time.

If you struggle to save, start with small amounts. It’s also helpful to set realistic savings goals. As you hit your savings goals, consider rewarding yourself with small splurges to maintain your motivation.

A savings challenge is also a great way to start saving more money.

How does one fix a broke mindset?

If you already think the wrong way about money, you don’t have to stick with it forever, and can instead use some strategies to change how you think. It’s entirely possible to transform your money mindset from broke.

Focus on the positive

A positive outlook on your money matters can make a world of difference. When you look at the world with a positive spin, it’s often easy to save for a brighter future. If you have a negative outlook on life, it’s easier to focus on what you don’t have.

It isn't always easy to stay positive in a negative world. But a commitment to positive thoughts might transform your mindset and your financial future.

Find your reason

If you can find a critical motivating factor, it’s often easier to transition out of your broke mindset while building a better financial future. A single reason to make the hard choices, like saving instead of splurging, can make all the difference.

Some common reasons to transform your finances include building generational wealth, providing financial stability for your kids, or pursuing financial independence.

Get comfortable living within your means

Living within your means involves spending less than you earn. If you are spending more cash than you earn, you’ll get stuck with some kind of debt. Learning to live on a budget can push you toward your financial goals.

The key is building a budget that you can stick to. If you don't know how to begin by building a budget, add up your current income and expenses. Hopefully, you’ll be bringing in more money than you spend.

Either way, comb through your spending. Look for ways to trim expenses you don’t care about while growing your resources for the expenses that you do care about.

For example, if you want to build an emergency fund, you might decide to temporarily pause spending on new clothes.

Learn more about money

If you don’t know too much about money, it’s often overwhelming to manage money responsibly. The solution is to beef up your money knowledge. As you learn more, you’ll likely gain the confidence you need to make savvy money decisions.

Set SMART money goals

Setting goals is a helpful tool for all areas of your life. In fact, goals can help you stay motivated.

SMART goals are specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. An example of a SMART goal is to save $1,000 for emergencies in one year.

Take the time to set SMART money goals for your unique situation.

Get creative

It’s easy to get stuck with the idea that money matters are entirely beyond your control. After all, you likely have a primary source of income that is finite.

For example, you might be living with the same paycheck from the same employer for several years.

Luckily, it’s possible to transform your financial situation with a dash of creativity. You can start by looking for creative ways to cut your expenses. But the real magic happens when you build additional streams of income. 

The possibilities of a lucrative side hustle are endless. Don’t be afraid to use your creativity to build a side hustle that works for your life and gives your financial situation a boost.

Got a broke mentality? You can change to a positive mindset!

A broke mindset can hold you back from achieving your full financial potential. Don’t let a limiting mindset prevent you from reaching your money goals.

As you transition to a different mindset, be patient with yourself. It will likely take some time to break free from old patterns and start to think differently. But the change is absolutely worth it!

The post How To Avoid Having A Broke Mindset appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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30 Save Money Slogans To Motivate You https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/save-money-slogans/ Thu, 16 Feb 2023 17:53:59 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=44343 […]

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Save money slogans

No matter where you're at on your financial journey, there’s always something you can improve. That’s where having a list of "save money slogans" can come in handy!

Most people enjoy having reached goals for a time, and then want to move on to the next thing. For example, perhaps you’ve just saved $10,000 in a year. That’s a cause for celebration!

But you might now need motivation for your other money goals, so consider using these save money slogans as motivation.

What are save money slogans?

Save money slogans are simply short and to-the-point statements meant to illustrate some truth about finances. Some of them are perfect for a season, while others might make sense for a lifetime.

Saving money slogans can also work much like financial affirmations do. You say them to yourself, write them in visible places you notice frequently, and also try to apply them to your life.

Generally, these slogans are meant to help you think positively about money. And in turn, they guide you in making financial choices but also try to avoid a judgmental tone.

Why using slogans can benefit you

Catchy money slogans can be a great tool because once you commit them to memory, they’ll pop up anytime you need them. They’re easy to remember and often applicable in a lot of situations.

Many of us need things like these slogans to remind us every time a spending or saving opportunity arises. They help us make the best decisions at the right moment.

Some of these slogans are heartfelt, while others are meant to be funny and brighten your day. So they can improve your mood as well as your finances. Some are by people you've heard of, some are commonly known slogans, and some I came up with myself.

That said, whether you need to focus on building an emergency fund, saving for a big event, or putting money towards retirement, there’s a “save money” slogan for you.

List of saving money slogans to inspire you

Now let’s kick things off with some catchy money slogans for every circumstance!

Saving money slogans to motivate you to pay off debt

This first set of money slogans is intended to help you focus when you’re working to pay off debt.

1. The less money you owe, the less income you’ll need and the less you’ll have to save for tomorrow. - Suze Orman

Financial guru Suze Orman points out that getting out of debt is beneficial because it lowers your overall budget needs.

2. It always seems impossible until it’s done. - Nelson Mandela

This one by Nelson Mandela is a good one to help you remember that challenges aren’t insurmountable.

3. I keep my promises, and debt is a promise.

In this save money slogan, you can gain strength from focusing on your identity. Knowing you want to be a person who keeps their promises is a good motivator.

4. Old ways won’t open new doors. 

However you got into debt, you likely need to change your ways to get out of it. This is a reminder that you need to do something differently.

5. The best time to change was 20 years ago. The second best time is now. 

This is my version of the “plant a tree” proverb. You can apply it to any healthy habit, including paying off debt.

6. How do you eat an elephant? One bite at a time. 

Eating an elephant is a weird metaphor for accomplishing enormous tasks (often attributed to Desmond Tutu). You may have a lot of stress due to debt, but you can start with small payments to eventually reach your goal.

7. Becoming debt-free is a gift to myself. 

This one's by me: instead of inwardly complaining about having to pay off debt, try to reframe it. Think of your debt-free journey as a path to creating a better life. That’s a big gift to yourself!

8. Know who you want to become and act like that person. 

As author James Clear noted in Atomic Habits, you can change by deciding the type of person you’d like to be. So whether you're paying off debt, exercising every morning, or spending more time with your kids, thinking of your identity is important.

9. Debt is normal. Be weird. - Dave Ramsey

Dave Ramsey’s podcast makes a big deal out of the “Debt-Free Scream” because getting out of debt is often a monumental task. Why not go against the status quo of being “normal” with loads of debt?

If debt-free is weird, sign me up. Try this variation on what Ramsey says.

Slogans for investing your savings

Here’s another batch of saving money slogans to try out. These can help you stick to your investing goals so you’ll have a great retirement.

10. Invest now, and your future self will thank you. 

This is a pretty basic investing concept: thinking of your future self. Some good habits don’t feel great in the present, but you know they’ll be worth it years down the road.

That’s incredibly true of investing. The earlier in life you start building your investment portfolio, the longer your money has to grow.

11. Compound interest is the eighth wonder of the world. - Albert Einstein

Compound interest is when you earn more interest from interest. That's why Einstein felt it was so powerful.

In other words, when you invest and your investment grows, it grows exponentially, as Albert Einstein reminds us. (Just remember that compound interest also works against you in cases like keeping a credit-card balance!)

12. A penny saved is a penny earned. - Benjamin Franklin

Sometimes I like to reflect on this old adage by Benjamin Franklin. It’s a common save money slogan because when you save an amount of money, you not only save that amount, but you could invest the money to earn even more.

13. Keep calm and invest. 

“Keep calm” save money slogans can help you with your investing goals.

Staying calm is essential to investors because you don’t want to panic-sell when stock prices drop, as Schwab explains unless you’re very close to retirement, you should generally stick to your investing plan.

Don’t give in to stock market fear.

14. Time is my most powerful investing tool.

One of the main reasons that time is so essential is due to compounding interest. Compound interest can grow your nest egg, and help increase your net worth.

15. Invest for the long haul. Don’t get too greedy and don’t get too scared. - Shelby M.C. Davis

Again, look at your investments as a long-term game, as M.C. Davis said. Most of us won’t get rich by trying to pick a magical stock, but we can gain wealth by investing for decades.

16. The stock market is a device to transfer money from the impatient to the patient. - Warren Buffett

Now, of course, Warren Buffett has had around 7 decades for his money to grow. But even average investors can build net worth by investing patiently.

17. I invest today for a better tomorrow.

A straightforward save money slogan—you’re making the choice to invest $20, $50, $100, or $1,000 at a time to make a better future.

18. My future net worth is worth today’s sacrifice.

Again, it’s not always easy to forego comfort or luxury right now. But sometimes that’s necessary to prompt you to save for yourself 30, 40, or 50 years in the future.

19. I reinvest every raise in my retirement.

This is a basic guideline you might choose to follow. Instead of giving in to lifestyle inflation, when you receive a raise, don’t increase your spending. If you invest the extra money, you’ll be that much better off in retirement.

Catchy slogans to make you laugh while you save

Some of these save money slogans can be taken with a sense of humor. In fact, they might even illustrate what not to do with your money.

20. I’m saving money for me and my honey.

You can frame saving and investing as a joint effort between you and your partner (and enjoy a rhyme). If your partner is a spender and you happen to be a saver, you’ve got some work to do, but it’s possible!

21. Don’t spend money to buy things you don’t want to impress people you don’t like.

Many famous people, including Dave Ramsey, have quoted some version of this motto. Even if you don’t think you spend money to impress others, we all fall prey to buying things we don’t really want.

Maybe we get bored, or we just click “buy” on a whim. This can help you pause before making a purchase.

22. Money is like manure. You have to spread it around or it smells. - JP Getty

You could interpret this quote from JP Getty as a reason to have a diversified portfolio or just invest in index funds. Or you could also let it guide your charitable giving (don’t keep it all for yourself).

23. I…declare…BANKRUPTCY! - Michael Scott, The Office 

(If you’ve never seen the “Money” episode of The Office, take a minute to go on YouTube. Look up the “I declare bankruptcy” scene. You’re welcome.) But this quote also reminds us that it's important to save money so you never find yourself in a bad financial situation.

24. Saving money makes good cents. 

Yes, it’s a pretty terrible pun…but even a bad pun can ring true!

25. The safest way to double your money is to fold it over and put it in your pocket. – Kin Hubbard

Get it? This catchy money slogan from Kin Hubbard is just a funny reminder that big promises of investments that will double your money are likely too good to be true.

26. A bank is a place that will lend you money if you can prove that you don’t need it. – Bob Hope

Maybe this isn’t really funny—it’s kind of strange how banks are more likely to lend you money if you already have a lot of it. Bob Hope noted this unfortunate truth. But it is a good reminder to save so you can avoid needing to take out loans.

More money slogans to inspire you to save every day

Craving even more save money slogans? These are a few more of my favorites.

27. A budget is telling your money where to go instead of wondering where it went. - John C. Maxwell

This is a great save money slogan from John C Maxwell, especially as you set about the task of budgeting. Following a budget doesn’t mean living a stingy life; it actually puts you in control of your money.

28. Live like no one else, so later you can live and give like no one else. - Dave Ramsey

Those who listen to the Dave Ramsey Show have no doubt heard his popular slogan. He’s referring to doing the hard work of paying off debt and also living within your means. That way, eventually you’ll be financially secure—and able to give generously.

29. Don’t worry about what the Joneses are buying. They’re broke.

The saying “keeping up with the Joneses” means making financial choices to try and compete with others who may appear wealthier. But remember that often what you see is not the full picture.

While your neighbor or friend on social media might seem to be living in luxury, you don’t know if they took on debt to do so. Their life might not be as great as it looks. That said, don’t compare yourself to others or let them make financial decisions for you.

30. The best things in life are free.

Is this a money motto you live by? It might not be that all the best parts of life are free. But I bet if you think about it, most of the truly meaningful things in your life aren’t a result of spending money.

How many money slogans should you focus on?

The number of catchy money slogans you choose to use each day depends on you.

For many of us, simply relying on one or two powerful money slogans will be enough. You might want to focus on a single slogan about saving money (or just money in general). That’s likely to be the most successful.

If you’re a person who chooses a “word of the year,” maybe a word or phrase related to money would be good to pick. Depending on what step of your money journey you’re on, you could have a few different ones that you think about on a regular basis.

Your slogans or money affirmations can be as helpful as you want them to be. For example, maybe you like to have a saving-money rule to follow at all times, or you need a bit more flexibility.

You probably don’t need dozens of catchy money slogans, so try to pick one or a handful of them that speak to you. Or invent your own unique slogans!

Commit these slogans and sayings to memory

Once you’ve decided on your favorite “save money” slogans to live by, it’s a good idea to place them where you’ll see them. Especially for visual learners, having a slogan posted throughout your home, car, or workplace can be helpful.

For instance, you could write your slogans on post-it notes or make them your screen saver on your laptop or phone. Money slogans could also be written across the front of a daily journal.

These saving money slogans can change your life!

Are these slogans about saving money going to fix your problems? No, they’re not a magical cure for debt or financial mistakes, or misfortune.

What money slogans can do for you is give you a clear path to follow. They’re short and easy to recall when you’re making a decision about spending or saving.

You can save more money and also reach your goals faster by letting the right money phrases guide you!

The post 30 Save Money Slogans To Motivate You appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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13 Healthy Mindset Habits To Improve Your Life! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/healthy-mindset/ Thu, 26 Jan 2023 21:47:05 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=43623 […]

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Healthy mindset habits

Our mind is a powerful thing. But it can also be our enemy when it comes to our thoughts and feelings. A healthy mindset can help you overcome difficult times and make your life more fulfilling.

It can even influence the decisions you make and how you act. It goes hand in hand with a healthy happy body, so it's important not to forget about caring for your mind!

Answering the "what is a healthy mindset" question, and how to take control of your outlook will allow you to have fun and improve your quality of life.

Let's get into it!

What is a healthy mindset?

So what is a healthy mindset? Well, it’s not just about exercising and eating healthily – although those things definitely help.

It’s about learning to control any negative thoughts that you may have that come with the daily stresses of life and work. You may be surprised to hear that positive thinking can also improve your happiness, health, and finances.

When did you last take a bit of time for yourself? And no, doing the grocery shopping child-free or switching your work phone off doesn’t count! Well, now you know what a healthy mindset is, you can start to intentionally take the time to work on developing yours!

13 healthy mindset habits to try today

So, how can you have a positive mindset? The answer is to adopt healthy habits that change how you see things and the emotions that you’re feeling.

So here are 13 that you can get started on right away.

1. Love yourself

Let’s start with the most important mindset habit – loving yourself.

Being kind to ourselves has been proven to lower anxiety and stress. It’s a healthy mindset habit that many people struggle with, but once you know how to do it, it will become part of your routine.

Self-love is also tough when we are constantly comparing ourselves to others. There's only one you and it's important to focus on yourself and your unique journey.

So, how do we show ourselves some love?

Spend more time doing what makes you feel happy, comfortable, and confident. Don't worry about what others think and allow yourself to make mistakes!

2. Keep a gratitude journal

Keeping a gratitude journal is a fantastic way to record your thoughts and make you feel happier about your life.

It can improve your mindset by helping you understand your worries and stresses and help you tackle them head-on by making a note of any triggers.

All that you need to do is spend a few minutes writing down your thoughts and feelings on what you’re grateful for. If you’re unsure where to start, try something simple such as writing about your morning, things you’re proud of, or an event that you’re looking forward to.

There are tons of different types of journals that you can use to channel your thoughts. You can also make notes on your phone if you prefer. The important thing is choosing the method that works for you.

3. Make the right food choices

Food affects our mind as well as our body, so what you eat can negatively impact your mood and outlook on life. Have you ever considered why you may feel so rubbish after a day of eating junk food? Chances are it's the high levels of saturated fats and sugar that you've just consumed.

So what is a healthy mindset when it comes to food? Try to include the following in your diet:

  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Salmon
  • Nuts, seeds, and legumes

And avoid the following:

  • Artificial sweeteners
  • Processed foods

Don’t forget to drink plenty of water too! There are so many significant benefits of staying hydrated which include a healthy mind.

Making the right food choices doesn't mean you can't ever eat your favorite burgers and cakes again. It's all about balance and moderation.

4. Get moving

We know the benefits that regular exercise has on our bodies. But did you know that moving can also improve your mental health too?

From improved sleep to better moods, exercising regularly is one of the best healthy mindset habits that improve your future.

You don’t need to sign up for a gym membership if that’s not your style. Try going for a walk or a swim with some pals so you can catch up and have fun at the same time.

Experts recommend getting 150 minutes of physical activity every week. The CDC explains that whilst this may sound like quite a bit of time, when you break it down to 30 minutes each day it's easily achievable.

5. Take time to appreciate the small things

Having things to look forward to can really help you feel more optimistic and make a big difference in the way you feel about your life. But only focusing on big occasions such as vacations, weddings, and promotions can mean that you miss the small, everyday things that bring daily joy.

Try a long walk, calling a friend, or reading a book. Or even treat yourself to your favorite snack and eat it slowly sitting in the park. You’ll be surprised at how simple things can bring you a lot of pleasure.

6. Spend time with positive, like-minded people

Happiness and positivity are contagious. Have you ever walked into a room full of happy, smiley people and felt instantly better? That’s because other people’s emotions rub off on us.

So get into the habit of only hanging around with the people in your life that make you feel good. It’s time to ditch the ones that don’t.

To attract positive people into your life, believe in yourself, and acknowledge and celebrate your strengths and achievements. If you don't believe in yourself, then you'll attract other people that struggle with self-love.

7. Start a new hobby

Finding free time for a hobby is not always easy, but the mental health benefits of doing something you enjoy are more than worth it.

Hobbies are a really great way to relieve stress and reduce feelings of depression and anxiety. In turn, this helps you live a happier and more fulfilling life by giving you a mental escape from everyday life.

Having a hobby is also a great way to meet like-minded people and share something you love. In turn, this helps you live a happier and more fulfilling life.

Stuck for ideas? Here are a few to research and try:

8. Give to charity

Giving is good for you. Fact. Acts of kindness can combat depression, and also anxiety.

You don’t have to donate lots of money to charity to make a difference. You can offer to volunteer in your local community or set up events to raise money for a specific charity.

So giving not only benefits those you help, but it’s also a healthy mindset habit that will benefit your own life. It can improve your self-confidence, give you a sense of purpose and keep you mentally stimulated. All of which are essential to a healthy mindset.

9. Share your feelings

Talking about your emotions and feelings is the key to maintaining a healthy mind. Sharing your thoughts with someone close to you allows you to get new opinions on a situation or help you come to a decision that you have been struggling to make.

Speaking about your feelings out loud also helps you learn what's important to you. This will allow you to live a more fulfilling life in tune with your values.

Not comfortable opening up about your feelings?

Try writing them down first then find a suitable time, place, and communication method that feels right for you. This could be a phone call, voice note, or face-to-face meeting.

10. Set goals for your life and your finances

Goals can help positively impact your life by motivating you to work towards something that makes you happy. Whether that’s working towards a promotion, buying your first house, or getting married, goals help focus your mind.

Setting goals is also motivational. So they can help you make the changes that you want in a productive way.

Financial goals in particular will help prevent overspending. Sticking with a savings goal will also help prevent other bad financial habits such as getting into debt or having a bad credit score.

Overall, financial stability will lead to increased levels of happiness and well-being.

11. Take a flexible approach to life

Life quite often doesn’t go to plan, and that’s ok. So being flexible can help protect your mental health. How?

Disappointment and negative feelings are natural when something doesn’t go to plan. But they can often lead to depression and wider mental health issues.

Reminding yourself of your life goals can also help you cope with disappointment. Every small step you make means you're heading in the right direction to achieve your dreams.

Some things in life are outside of our control. An effective healthy mindset habit to try is accepting this happens and moving on. You’ll be surprised at how much more fulfilling your life is when you don’t sweat the small stuff.

12. Reflect regularly

It’s easy to get focused on the routine of everyday life and forget what life is really about. Reflecting regularly allows you to celebrate small successes and accomplishments that you have achieved.

Self-reflection can also help you learn, grow and appreciate things by bringing perspective into your life. It's also a great way to practice self-appreciation.

Take several minutes each day to think about the good things in your life and what makes you happy. It can make a massive difference to your overall mood and well-being and give your mind a chance to take a break.

13. Achieve the right work-life balance for you

A healthy work-life balance can mean different things to different people.

To find out what it means to you, ask yourself the following questions:

  • What is causing you stress or unhappiness in your life?
  • What feelings do you experience daily?
  • What are your priorities?

Now you can start reprioritizing things to improve your work-life balance. For example, if you work long hours and miss out on time to socialize with family and friends, you may consider changing your work hours or looking for a new job.

Regardless of your priorities, you should always have enough time to sleep properly, eat well, and socialize. Worrying about work at home is unhealthy and can negatively impact your mindset.

Healthy mindset tips and tricks to leverage

Your mindset is one of the most important parts of your life, so it’s important to look after it. That said, sometimes the hardest part is knowing where to start.

Here are some smart tips and tricks on how to use the mindset habits above to create and maintain a healthy mindset.

Start somewhere

Sometimes the smallest actions have a huge impact on our lives.

Don’t put pressure on yourself to achieve everything in one go. Instead, just start somewhere. This could be a daily walk to boost your mood or writing down five things that you’re grateful for.

Stop comparing yourself to others

Comparing yourself to somebody else can lower your self-esteem and self-worth. If you often wish your life was like somebody’s that you follow online, either stop following them or take a break from social media.

Don’t doubt your own ability

To achieve great things, you have to believe in yourself.

Overcome self-doubt by practicing self-love and reflecting on your past achievements. Saying sorry to yourself is a good first step to take when moving forward.

Move on from setbacks

If you find yourself breaking healthy mindset habits, don’t beat yourself up about it. The important thing is that you learn from your setback and move forward.

What did you learn? What will you do differently next time?

Making mistakes is part of life and what you learn can help you grow as a person.

Healthy mind, happy life! Develop a healthy mindset starting today!

Learning how to adopt a healthy mindset has so many benefits. Make this your best year yet with these healthy habits, tips, and tricks.

Pick and choose the ones that work best for you, or give all of them a go. And remember how crucial it is to live a healthy lifestyle and of course, be smart with your finances!

The post 13 Healthy Mindset Habits To Improve Your Life! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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How To Use Money Journaling: Improve Your Mindset And Your Finances https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/money-journaling/ Tue, 17 Jan 2023 16:21:26 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=42310 […]

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Money journaling

Do you love to crack open the spine of a new journal? There are various ways to get into this hobby—dream journaling, gratitude journaling, book journaling ... But have you heard of money journaling?

Well, it can help you give your finances and your mindset a mega boost. And in this article, we will go over how exactly money journaling can work for you!

What is money journaling?

Money journaling is about more than just keeping a ledger. It's about keeping a journal that's purely dedicated to your finances and spending habits. When you start journaling, you commit to writing down everything you spend every day.

It's more than just math

To make it a money journal, you also need to write down how you feel about all your spending in addition to the numbers. This is the secret ingredient.

This way, a financial journal isn't about just tracking spending. Rather, it's also about putting you in touch with what you think and feel—not just about your spending—but about money in general.

Why should you start the practice of money journaling?

Starting a money journal will help you better understand your relationship with money. This is helpful no matter where you are in your financial journey.

For example, you might have a monthly budget but are you sticking to it? You may be surprised by what your journal reveals about your real-life spending habits.

Find out how you feel about your spending

Moreover, a journal helps you identify how you feel about spending your money.

For example, maybe you cut your daily latte out of your budget because you think you shouldn't be spending so much money on coffee.

But once you start money journaling, you realize that you actually get a major mood boost from ordering your soy milk matcha latte. And isn't a good mood something worth budgeting for?

Ultimately, the notes in your journal can help you decide what you truly want to prioritize in your budget.

Get the best of both worlds: numbers and emotions

A financial journal can be really useful because it satisfies both your left-brain and right-brain needs.

It gives you a look at the cold, hard numbers of what you're spending every day—the kind of facts and sequencing that your left brain loves.

However, a journal also pushes you to reflect on what those numbers really mean to you and your feelings—a much-appreciated activity for the right brain.

This is what makes it a truly holistic tool to help you get in touch with and recalibrate (if needed) your finances.

Become more self-aware through reflection

It's all about being self-aware. According to a study from the European Journal of Personality, if you have a greater sense of self-awareness, you are more likely to identify goal-related obstacles.

This is what makes a financial journal so much more than just an expense tracker.

By taking the time to write reflections next to every purchase you make, you're becoming more aware of how you feel about your money and spending habits.

Ultimately, this helps you identify obstacles that are stopping you from reaching your financial goals. And once you identify those obstacles, you can take steps to make changes.

For example, maybe you realize that you spend more money on take-out than you'd like to—and you immediately feel guilty after ordering. Or, maybe you realize that you hit ADD TO CART as soon as you feel stressed out. Both of these actions may be hurting your goal to save more.

But with money journaling, you can better identify these and other goal-crushing obstacles so you can implement new actions to take moving forward.

Improve your mindset

It might sound like a fad and serious Instagram nonsense, but adjusting your mindset can really have a profound impact on your life.

In fact, a new piece from the Stanford Report shares research: "By understanding, adapting, and shifting your mindset, you can improve your health, decrease your stress and become more resilient to life's challenges."

And this all goes for your finances, too. A healthy mindset is key!

Figure out what you truly believe about your finances

You may have discovered that you have some limiting beliefs about money. It's okay—we all do. But unfortunately, these limiting beliefs can really hold you back from achieving your goals.

For example, you may never start investing or learning how to save because deep down you think you don't deserve financial wellness.

This is where money journaling can be the magic trick to help you overcome your limiting beliefs because it forces you to take a look at your relationship with money.

We all have things that scare us or make us nervous when it comes to finances. But by staring them hard in the face, you can learn how to shift your mindset and overcome these fears.

How to get started money journaling

If you're not already an active journaler (or even if you are), starting a financial journal can seem overwhelming and time-consuming.

If you consider all the tiny purchases you make throughout the day, (e.g., coffee, in-app purchases, last-minute Target purchases, etc.), it might seem like too much.

And that's the point! You want to be tuned in to all of this. But keeping track of all these purchases doesn't have to be arduous.

These are the simple five steps to get started with money journaling:

1. Get a journal

Your journal can be a regular notebook, a special money planning book, or something digital. What's most important is that it is something you can easily access, hassle-free every day.

2. Round up all your receipts from the last week

You can skip over this step if you want. But if you've got the motivation pumping and you want to start reflecting on your money habits right away, having a little background is helpful. You can use your stockpile of receipts from last week to get started journaling.

If you don't hold on to paper receipts, then open up the statements for all your credit and debit cards so you can see what you spent in the last week.

3. Record all your purchases

In your chosen journal, start writing down all your daily purchases. If you completed step two, you can create a backlog with all your purchases from last week. If not, just get started tracking your spending today.

Next, this is the really crucial part. Beside each purchase that you record, write down how you feel/felt when making that purchase.

Remember that there isn't a right or wrong here. You can write down as little or as much as you'd like. Above all, don't skip out on this part!

While it might feel a little lame to write down how you felt buying groceries, know that this is what will help you get better in touch with your spending and what will ultimately help you improve your overall financial situation. Trust the process.

4. Total it all up and review

At the end of the day, total up all your purchases. Then, next to that total, write down how you feel about all the spending that you did.

Do you feel guilty? Proud? Uplifted?

Some days you may spend a whole lot more than you planned—but that's not necessarily a bad thing! Maybe you had a spontaneous night out with your girlfriends singing karaoke. Sure, you might have spent a bit more on drinks than you would have wanted, but was it worth it to you?

The longer you keep your journal, you can also add in more reflection checkpoints.

For example, total up your spending at the end of the week and write down how you feel about it. Do it again at the end of the month, and take note of how your thoughts change.

5. Make a plan for moving forward

When the week is over, take the time to look at your notes. And be thorough: review both your spending and your journal entries.

Try to give yourself a little space between reflections, too. Maybe cozy up on a Sunday evening and review your entries from the last week.

Leaving a little time for your thoughts and feelings to marinate gives you the chance to reflect more clearly and see things in a new light. Then you can plan for your financial future.

Examples of money journal prompts to try out!

Your notebook can be more than a place to monitor your feelings on daily purchases. Additionally, you can use it to reflect on your overall financial situation and on your relationship with money in general.

Here are some money journal prompt ideas to get you started.

12 Money journal prompts to inspire you

Get started with one of these money journal prompts to inspire you:

  1. What makes me feel guilty when it comes to money?
  2. What is my Achilles' heel when it comes to spending?
  3. When I think about money, I think about ...
  4. Have my thoughts about money improved or not this year?
  5. I am not good at ____ when it comes to money management. I can change this by ...
  6. What did money mean to me growing up?
  7. I believe the purpose of money is to ...
  8. How do I feel about money today? How do I want to feel about money in the future?
  9. Do I feel comfortable talking about money with friends and family? If so, what do we talk about?
  10. Do I want to have a lot of money? What is "a lot of money" to me? And if so, why?
  11. My biggest financial fear is ...
  12. I don't like ____ about my finances. I can take one step to start changing this today by ...

4 Weekly check-in money journal prompts

Below are 4 weekly money journal prompts you can leverage as well:

  1. Did I spend more than I wanted to? On what?
  2. What are my triggers for spending?
  3. Did I make progress on my spending goals?
  4. What can I do differently next week?

To be successful with your journaling, you need to make it a priority. So block time for yourself to write in your journal weekly, monthly, and whenever you feel like it!

Leverage these money journaling tips for success with your finances and for a more positive mindset!

Like other activities that make you track your progress every day, once you start money journaling, it can become addictive.

So treat yourself to a pretty journal you love. Buy a fabulous pen. And get started with your journal ASAP. The way you think about money is crucial to your financial success.

For more thoughts on how to improve your relationship with your finances, check out these key ways to improve your money mindset.

The post How To Use Money Journaling: Improve Your Mindset And Your Finances appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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17 Best Books On Self Discipline https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/best-books-on-self-discipline/ Sat, 31 Dec 2022 15:30:51 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=41283 […]

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These best books on self discipline are linked via affiliate links that help us grow Clever Girl Finance! Please see our disclosures for more information.

Best books on self discipline

It's frustrating to feel like you're never making any progress on your goals. And when it always seems like an uphill battle, trying to figure out where to make improvements can feel almost impossible. This is where the best books on self discipline can come in handy.

But like the world of self-help, there is an ocean of self-discipline material out there, all promising to help you power through to your goals.

That's why we've narrowed down our favorites to give you an evergreen list of the most helpful books on self discipline!

The importance of books on self discipline

If you've never stepped into the personal development world before, then you might be a bit hesitant to pick up some books on self-discipline. But self-discipline, while a seemingly simple concept, isn't always a no-brainer to implement.

So first, let's get clear on what self-discipline is. (Note: You might hear the terms self-control and willpower thrown around with self-discipline, too.)

Basically, self-discipline is your ability to control your actions, feelings, and emotions—consistently. That's the key: consistency.

When you feel like you're losing willpower and can't make it past day three with your exercise goals or saving money, turning to some books on self-discipline can help give you the direction, insight, and tips to keep going.

You can also check out these specific examples of self-discipline for more insight.

Why are self discipline books helpful?

There are many different benefits of mastering the skill of self-discipline, such as:

  • Reducing anxiety
  • Helping you achieve your long-term goals
  • Feeling happier overall

But even for the best of us, mastering this skill every day, day in and day out, is a challenge. That is where self-discipline books can help!

Get motivated and inspired

You know that feeling—when you make an action plan for the week or suddenly get uber-dedicated to cleaning your house so it looks like a perfect Pinterest pin?

Inspiration can really set a fire under you to help you get motivated.

And the benefits of inspiration are no joke. In fact, inspiration is likely to lead you to do well with your goals.

Diving into a few new books about self-discipline is a smart way to get you motivated and inspired to start tackling your new goals—and then take them to the finish line.

Get professional insight

Of course, finding the motivation to get started is only half the battle.

For many of us, willpower and self-discipline can easily wane halfway through the process. That's why we can all use a few tips on how to stay the course.

When you check out the best books on self discipline, you'll get professional insight from some of the world's top psychologists, researchers, and scientists.

For example, one of our favorite books about self-discipline (spoiler!), Willpower: Rediscovering Our Greatest Strength, is written by the dynamic duo, Roy F. Baumeister, research psychologist, and John Tierney, NYT science writer.

This way, there's no need to worry about reaching all your goals on your own. Instead, with an armful of books on self-discipline, you'll have a slew of experts and their insider know-how to help you get there.

17 best books on self discipline

Is your reading list looking a little slim?

We've got the answers. Pour yourself a cup of tea. Get comfy. And get ready to get inspired with your pick from the list of the 17 best books on self discipline:

1. Mindset: The New Psychology of Success by Carol S. Dweck

Mindset - The New Psychology of Success by Carol S Dweck

Surely, you've heard plenty about what it means to develop a growth mindset. Well, Carol S. Dweck is the renowned psychologist who first introduced the world to this concept of the growth mindset—and she's spelling out all her tips here.

In this book, The New Psychology of Success, you'll learn how to build lifelong resilience and work on self-improvement.

2. The Now Habit: A Strategic Program for Overcoming Procrastination and Enjoying Guilt-Free Play by Neil Fiore

The Now Habit by Neil Fiore

Next, this page-turner is all about self-discipline strategies. Writer Neil Fiore shares strategies to help you understand and learn how to deal with the role modern technology plays in procrastination.

Ultimately, you'll get a plan to help you lower your stress and increase time efficiency with the book, The Now Habit. Win!

3. Self-Discipline in 10 Days: How to Go From Thinking to Doing by Theodore Bryant

Self-Discipline in 10 Days by Theodore Bryant

With the right insights, you can improve your self-discipline in just 10 days. To that end, you'll have to learn how to improve your time management and how to identify and rid yourself of subconscious beliefs that sabotage your self-discipline.

If you're looking for a book to help jump-start your self-discipline, Self-Discipline in 10 Days could be it.

4. Discipline Equals Freedom: Field Manual by Jocko Willink

Discipline Equals Freedom Field Manual by Jocko Willink

The book, Discipline Equals Freedom, by Jocko Willink (a commander of the special operations unit of the war in Iraq) shares helpful strategies.

It's one of the best books on self discipline and it will help you overcome weakness, procrastination, and fear.

5. No Excuses!: The Power of Self-Discipline by Brian Tracy

No excuses book - Brian Tracy

Above all, self-discipline is about putting a stop to making excuses for yourself. That's why No Excuses puts the focus on learning how to apply a "no-excuses" approach.

In the end, you'll learn how to work towards your personal goals, business goals, financial goals, and overall happiness with discipline as the key ingredient for everything.

6. Willpower: Rediscovering Our Greatest Strength by Roy F. Baumeister and John Tierney

Willpower by Roy F. Baumeister and John Tierney

As has been noted, Willpower, from Roy F. Baumeister and John Tierney, is a crowd favorite when it comes to learning about willpower and self-discipline.

Importantly, this book will open your eyes to a new way of thinking about self-control—and then give you the tips to master it.

7. The Little Book of Big Change: The No-Willpower Approach to Breaking Any Habit by Amy Johnson Ph.D. and Mark Howard Ph.D.

The Little Book of Big Change by Amy Johnson and Mark Howard

Obviously, breaking bad habits is easier said than done. However, with insights from Amy Johnson, Ph.D., and Mark Howard, Ph.D., in The Little Book of Big Change, you'll learn how to rewire your brain so you can overcome your bad habits once and for all.

Using a combination of neuroscience and spirituality, this writing pair will prove to you that you are not your bad habits and that you do have the power to effect change.

8. The Marshmallow Test: Mastering Self-Control by Walter Mischel

The Marshmallow Test Mastering Self-Control by Walter Mischel

Famously, Walter Mischel organized what is now known as the Marshmallow Test in the 1970s. Now, his book The Marshmallow Test answers the fundamental question: Is willpower prewired, or can it be taught?

9. The Science of self-control by Howard Rachlin

The Science of self-control by Howard Rachlin

Unquestionably, there is a science to self-control—at least that's what Howard Rachlin believes. In this book, he proposes a new science of self-control based on principles of behavioral psychology and economics.

Specifically, he argues that we need to develop harmonious patterns of behavior in order to master self-control with a strategy he calls "soft commitment."

10. Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink

Drive The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink

All in all, motivation plays a big role in finding self-discipline. That's why the book, Drive is one of the best books on self discipline that introduces a new way to think about motivation.

First, Daniel H. Pink exposes the mismatch between what science and what business tell us about motivation. Then, he outlines new techniques to master finding your motivation.

11. The 5-Second Rule: Transform your Life, Work, and Confidence with Everyday Courage by Mel Robbins

The 5-Second Rule by Mel Robbins

Heads-up! Audible named the 5 Second Rule the #1 nonfiction book of the year. And we can see why.

Undoubtedly, Mel Robbins' five-second rule has taken the world by storm. For life-changing tips on becoming a better decision-maker, this is the page-turner to turn to.

12. The Willpower Instinct: How Self-Control Works, Why It Matters, and What You Can Do to Get More of It by Kelly McGonigal

Based on the Stanford University psychologist's course, "The Science of Willpower," this book, The Willpower Instinct, harnesses insights from psychology, economics, neuroscience, and medicine to explain the science of self-control.

Moreover, it gives you practical goods, too. You'll learn how to improve your willpower to improve your health, productivity, and overall happiness in one of the best books on self discipline.

13. The Practicing Mind by Thomas M. Sterner

The Practicing Mind by Thomas M. Sterner

Interestingly, The Practicing Mind takes a look at the act of learning, in general. Clearly, it takes a good sense of self-discipline and self-control to learn a new skill.

That's why Thomas M. Sterner's book focuses on different methods of practice. In this book, you'll learn how to build your discipline and clarity so you can better learn new skills—anything from golfing to cooking to dancing.

14. The Science of Self-Discipline: The Willpower, Mental Toughness, and Self-Control to Resist Temptation and Achieve Your Goals by Peter Hollins

The Science of Self-Discipline by Peter Hollins

Above all, improving self-discipline means learning how to resist impulses. And that's what the book, The Science of Discipline, teaches you to do.

Specifically, it gives you a roadmap of the human psyche to help you understand what drives your cravings.

In the long run, you'll be able to overcome these cravings and achieve your long-term goals.

15. Willpower Doesn't Work: Discover the Hidden Keys to Success by Benjamin Hardy

Willpower Doesn't Work by Benjamin Hardy

Contrarily, this book says willpower is just a fad. Wait, what? That's right.

This book explains that your willpower won't take you far without an environment that helps you succeed.

For that reason, the book, Willpower Doesn't Work, discusses why it's most important to alter your surroundings to support your long-term goals.

16. Neuro-Discipline: Everyday Neuroscience for Self-Discipline, Focus, and Defeating Your Brain’s Impulsive and Distracted Nature by Peter Hollins

Neuro-Discipline by Peter Hollins

Ready for a wake-up call? The book Neuro-Discipline by Peter Hollins says all humans are predisposed to laziness and energy conservation.

Thus, in order to improve self-discipline, the trick is to learn how dopamine works and how we can stimulate it for our own purposes.

17. 365 Days With Self-Discipline: 365 Life-Altering Thoughts on Self-Control, Mental Resilience, and Success - Martin Meadows

365 Days With Self-Discipline by Martin Meadows

Unfortunately, self-discipline is not instant. Rather, it's something that you need to practice every day. That's where the book 365 Days With Self-Discipline comes in as a daily companion to remind you to stay disciplined.

In this guidebook, you'll get brief, daily insights from the world's brightest minds to help keep you on track when the going gets tough.

Make willpower your superpower with the best books on self discipline

Part of the magic of mastering self-discipline, willpower, and self-control is that you can use these skills to improve pretty much any area of your life—including your finances.

Whether you're having a hard time saving, creating a budget that works for you, or finally opening investment and retirement accounts, learning how to harness the power of self-discipline can help you reach your financial goals. These books about self-discipline can help you be more productive.

To learn even more ways to improve your life, check out these personal finance books and these reads about leadership!

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The Power Of Mindset And How To Leverage It For Success https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/power-of-mindset/ Wed, 30 Nov 2022 20:38:03 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=39263 […]

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Power of mindset

The way you think has a significant impact on the way you live. It’s possible to improve your everyday happiness by changing the way you act—starting with the power of mindset. Your mindset is simply an established set of attitudes you hold, and those attitudes influence the choices you make.

While the concept of “you can do anything if you believe” can be misleading, it’s worth exploring the power of mindset. You can make a massive difference in your career, your relationships, and your total well-being by changing your attitude, or your mindset.

Why is your mindset so powerful?

The power of your mindset can extend to your immune system along with your choices in terms of how you build your life. Research has shown how holding various types of mindsets can affect your well-being and happiness, so it’s worth taking the time to examine your mindset.

Your mindset impacts your actions

Mindsets can play a big role in determining what happens in your life. It’s not that changing your mindset by itself causes things to go your way, but that your mindset impacts your actions.

For example, if you believe that you’re not good with money, you might be more likely to spend frivolously. You could justify overspending by thinking, “Well, I’m just bad with money, and that’s the way it is.”

But if you tell yourself you’re great with money and you make smart financial decisions, you’re more likely to actually be that way. Funny how that works, huh?

Mindset can refer to how much time you spend thinking about a certain part of your life. The power of mindset can extend to how you pursue career growth, religious beliefs, family connectedness, and more.

Although changing your mindset doesn’t mean believing something false, you do need to retrain your brain. If you’re deep in debt and need to manage debt stress, don’t ignore the problem. Use the power of mindset to decide how you’ll get out of debt and take action.

You can leverage your mindset to achieve success

As writer James Clear writes in his book on habit change, Atomic Habits, identity is key to success.

He describes how creating a new identity in your mind can influence your actions. “What you do now is a mirror image of the type of person you believe that you are,” he explains.

What Clear is talking about is part of the power of your mindset. It’s not that money magically falls into your lap if you just believe you can earn a lot of money.

Instead, the belief is what drives your actions (starting a business or changing your exercise routine, for example).

It’s clear that while mindsets are what we call “established” attitudes and perspectives, we can change our mindsets. You don’t have to remain trapped in a cycle of whatever mindsets you’ve built over the years.

Mindsets can actually impact your reality. As Stanford University research notes, “Science is just beginning to validate the power of the mind-body relationship.” It’s amazing what the power of mindset can do to help you find success.

The different types of mindsets and how to leverage them

There are different types of mindsets. The most common are the following, which we'll go over in detail below:

  • Growth mindset vs fixed mindset
  • Abundance mindset vs scarcity mindset
  • Success mindset

Growth mindset vs fixed mindset

Two popular types of mindsets people like to contrast are fixed mindsets and growth mindsets. Psychologist Carol Dweck shone a light on these two important types of mindsets in her book Mindset: The New Psychology of Success.

What a fixed mindset is like

Essentially, a fixed mindset is what it sounds like. You might believe that your skills and future are fairly fixed or set, and that you can’t change them.

Much of the research on fixed mindset focuses on education and how children learn. While some students believe they can improve, others believe their abilities are fixed, or unchangeable.

Having a fixed mindset can lower your motivation

Think about how a fixed mindset could be detrimental to your success. If you believe your abilities are already set in stone, why would you even try something new? Doing things differently might seem out of reach.

Take someone who grows up in poverty. They might have learned that their circumstances are fixed and they’ll never become wealthy. By believing that, they might not be motivated to work hard in school or pursue good career opportunities.

If you have a fixed mindset, you’ll shy away from changing your life in positive ways. You might not bother exercising because you think you’ll never be an athlete. Or settle for an unsatisfying job because you don’t believe you deserve better.

A fixed mindset could also stop you from taking risks  

Along the same lines, the power of mindset affects whether you’re willing to take calculated risks. While you should always practice safety precautions to avoid getting hurt, there are certain risks that could propel you to achieving your goals.

An example of a risk that could turn out to be valuable is taking out a small business loan with a strategy in place to pay it back.

Many small businesses only grow and thrive because they have access to capital or get others to invest in them. You need to be willing to assume some calculated risk if you want to grow.

That fixed mindset could also cause you to avoid good opportunities out of fear. Maybe you struggle with the fear of having a child, fear of pursuing a promising relationship, or fear of changing careers. Sometimes facing your fears is the best decision you could make, so a fixed mindset isn’t ideal.

What a growth mindset is like

The flip side of a fixed mindset is, of course, a growth mindset. By developing a growth mindset, you can tackle some of life’s biggest challenges and accomplish your goals.

Use a growth mindset to persevere through hard things

First of all, having a growth mindset is an excellent way to learn how to face trouble and hard times. No one gets through life unscathed, so we need to be prepared for tough stuff to happen.

If your mindset is fixed, you might be unwilling to work through tasks that are hard for you. A growth mindset enables you to persevere when you have to try something new or difficult. It shows you that you can improve and become a better parent or a faster runner or a more compassionate boss.

Perhaps you have a money mindset that is stopping you from asking for a raise or sticking to a budget. Fortunately, you can work on that growth mindset to shift your perspective. Decide that you don’t have to be the way you’ve always been, and commit to working through challenges.

Focus on life’s journey to cultivate a growth mindset

A big part of cultivating a growth mindset comes down to the fact that life is a journey. As tempting as it may be to think that life will always continue as it has, you know that’s not the case.

You’ll enter different phases of life, and having a growth mindset can help you to navigate each of those phases. As things change, you’ll adapt and adjust.

You probably won’t have the same exact priorities in your twenties that you will in your forties. And it’s key to accept that troubles will come, and while much of life is outside your control, the power of your mindset is in your control.

Abundance mindset vs scarcity mindset 

Next, here’s another set of opposing types of mindsets: scarcity vs. abundance. Do you gravitate toward a scarcity mindset or an abundance mindset?

Characteristics of a scarcity mindset

When looking at the power of mindset, pay attention to whether you’re a “scarcity” or “abundance” mindset person. Scarcity indicates that there are limits to things (love, money, resources, etc.).

If you tend to believe that if you have a lot of something, there’s less for others, that indicates a scarcity mindset. Do you become envious of a friend when she gets a big raise? A scarcity mindset tells you—falsely—that you probably won’t get a raise now.

When you think that everything in the world only has a fixed amount to go around, you won’t encourage others. You might hoard your own wealth or believe that you could never increase your income.

Characteristics of an abundance mindset

By contrast, an abundance mindset has so much more to offer. The power of mindset when you have a mind of abundance is that the sky’s the limit.

Believing that there is more than enough to go around—money, love, fulfillment—can change your actions. You’ll be more ready to say “yes” to new experiences and take on challenges.

If you build an abundance mindset, it won’t instantly give you everything you want. But you can stop focusing on what you don’t have, and instead focus on what you do have. You can believe in the power of possibility.

Opening up your mind to abundance could make you more willing to try learning new skills or developing relationships. Having an abundance mindset can help you to create a bigger, richer life.

Success mindset

Another of the best mindsets is a success mindset. This is a general attitude that you can and will be successful.

A success mindset goes hand in hand with other positive mindsets like the growth mindset and the abundance mindset. Each of these helpful mindsets can lead you to success.

Belief in your ability to succeed is key

Your ability to succeed depends a lot on what you believe about yourself. It’s weird, but in a way, positive thinking about success does help you to become successful.

A success mindset goes beyond mere positive thinking, though. It includes not only the belief that you can succeed but also the belief that you deserve success.

Too many of us have spent years disparaging ourselves or engaging in negative self-talk. If you constantly tell yourself negative things like “I’ll never succeed” or “This dream was too big,” how are you going to succeed?

Instead, you need to work on the power of mindset by practicing affirmations. Money affirmations and other affirmations about what you deserve and what you can have will help you to gradually start believing the best.

As we’ve established, mindset is key in determining your actions, which also impact what you’re able to achieve. So start believing that success is indeed possible and that you are worthy of success.

Use a success mindset to set good goals

A great way to use your mindset is by setting good and effective goals. Developing a success mindset can help you to set big goals that are also achievable.

Part of a success mindset is that you learn what your priorities are. Focusing on the major areas of life, such as family and career, may help you to accomplish more. It’s key to get clarity to achieve goals, rather than drifting along with no clear objectives.

Whether you’re setting mini-goals, monthly goals, or yearly goals, use the power of your mindset to create ones that will work.

If you use the SMART framework to set specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and timely goals, that may increase your odds of success.

How to develop the best types of mindsets for yourself

When you’re focusing on your mindset, be sure to consider the best mindset for achieving your goals.

There are many ways you can think, but some of the most influential are the growth mindset, abundance mindset, and success mindset.

Build a growth mindset to help you never stop learning

With a growth mindset, as you’ve seen, you don’t have to let troubles get you down. You can rise up above challenges and setbacks because you expect them and are prepared.

With your growth mindset (instead of a fixed mindset), if you think you’re weak in a certain area, you don’t have to stay that way. You recognize that you can learn anything. You can develop money-making skills, learn how to do your own taxes, or whatever doesn’t come easily to you.

A growth mindset can help you to pick yourself up after a failure. Don’t assume that your business idea is terrible if it fails. There are many factors you could change to improve your chances of success, and each failure is a chance to learn.

Focus on an abundance mindset to invite good things

Rather than dwelling on any scarcity of your past, try to build an abundance mindset for today and the future. Believe that you are deserving of all the great things in life.

Whether you feel lacking in love, respect, money, career, or any other part of life, start to build an abundance mindset. Repeat positive affirmations that encourage you to reach for what you want.

It’s amazing how just saying phrases to yourself over and over again can help you to believe them and act on them. Use language that drives you to work harder and have confidence. Here are a few financial affirmations to get you started:

  • Money is an abundant resource that I can earn.
  • I can use money to improve the world.
  • I am becoming wealthy.

Let your success mindset lead you to success

Finally, a success mindset can be so powerful. Deciding to believe that success is coming may be the most important mindset shift you’ll ever make.

To have a success mindset, you must truly believe that you are capable of success, deserve success, and are moving toward success. What good does it do you to wallow in self-pity, assuming nothing good will ever happen to you?

Look at the people you admire who are successful. What do you admire about them? You can try to emulate their choices to some extent.

Be sure to focus on a success mindset. Recognize that other people are no more deserving of success than you are.

Start using the power of your mindset to make progress toward your goals!

It’s important to focus on not just a positive attitude, but an effective mindset that gets you where you want to go.

The power of mindset can teach you to be more resilient, more positive, and more confident in your abilities. You deserve to achieve your goals.

To apply this to finances, learn how to create a financial abundance mindset, as well as find books for money mindset.

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The Top 10 Self-Limiting Beliefs And How To Let Them Go https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/top-10-self-limiting-beliefs/ Fri, 03 Jun 2022 02:32:36 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=27435 […]

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Top 10 self-limiting beliefs

We all have them - those self-limiting beliefs that keep us from achieving our goals and living our best lives. Those voices inside our heads that tell us we’re not good enough or capable of reaching for the stars. In this article, we'll explore the top 10 self-limiting beliefs and how to let them go for good.

We'll also discuss how to change limiting beliefs. But first, what is a limiting belief and how do you know if you have any?

What is a limiting belief?

A limiting belief is a false or negative belief you hold about yourself. They are bad because they’re a type of core belief that can prevent you from reaching your full potential by keeping you in a fixed mindset instead of a growth mindset.

For instance, when you have self-limiting beliefs, you may not even try to achieve your goals because you don't believe that you can. It may become a self-fulfilling prophecy where you end up not achieving anything because you didn't believe that you could.

To reach your full potential, it’s crucial to identify and change limiting beliefs and acquire a new belief system. Once you do this, you’ll be able to see what’s truly possible for you. Your state of mind will be different and your behavior will change.

What are the top 10 self-limiting beliefs and how do you change them?

Now that you know what this type of thinking is, let's talk about the top 10 self-limiting beliefs. Plus how to overcome limiting beliefs like the ones listed below!

1. "I can't do this."

“I can’t do this” is a negative thought that often stems from being overly critical about yourself. You may hold yourself to incredibly high standards or have anxiety about not being able to do something absolutely perfectly.

The first step to overcoming this top 10 self-limiting belief is to take a step back and pause for a moment. Understand that you’re capable of more than you give yourself credit for.

Everyone has moments of doubt, but it’s possible to push through these moments and continue moving forward.

When you begin thinking, "I can't do this," try to counter that thought with a positive affirmation like "I am capable of achieving anything I set my mind to." This will boost your self-esteem and remind you that you can accomplish great things.

2. "I'm not worthy of love."

Believing you’re not worthy of love is a form of toxic shame that can stem from neglect, abuse, or nefarious actions you took in the past that you now regret.

This one is tough, but it's so important. If you don't believe you're worthy of love, you'll never let anyone truly love you. You'll push people away, or you'll settle for relationships that are less than what you deserve.

The first step to overcoming this belief is to change the internal dialogue you’re having with yourself. Cultivate a more compassionate “you” who forgives your former self for any and all of your past mistakes or experiences. Then, you can begin to heal.

It might take time, but eventually, you'll start to believe it. And when you do, you'll be able to let love in.

3. “I don’t deserve this.”

This top 10 self-limiting belief is a form of self-deprecation that often comes from feelings of insecurity or unworthiness. And if left untreated, it might turn into self-sabotage that can unravel every part of your life — from your relationships to your career.

There are several tricks and tools you can use to overcome limiting beliefs like this. One of my favorites is keeping a journal of all the things you’ve accomplished in your life.

When you feel you don’t deserve something, the journal can serve as a reminder of why you do deserve it.

4. "I'm not ready yet."

Imposter syndrome is real. It convinces you that you’re a fraud or that you’re not quite ready to chase your dreams. That you just need to learn a *little bit more* to be taken seriously.

But the truth is, very few people ever feel completely "ready” to start something new. If you believe that you aren't ready, you could miss out on new opportunities and life experiences.

The key is to take baby steps. Rather than focusing on perfection, just focus on taking action. Give yourself permission to figure things out as you go.

5. "This is too hard."

When you encounter difficulties in life, it can be tempting to give up and believe that things are just too hard. Which can become one of the top 10 self-limiting beliefs. But nothing worth having comes easy.

If you want to achieve your goals — whether it’s paying off student loan debt, learning to invest, or finding a higher paying job — you need to be willing to put in the hard work required to reach them.

When you catch yourself thinking, "this is too hard," try to remind yourself that you’re capable of handling anything that comes your way. Doing so will help you change your perceptions and overcome challenges.

6. "I can't change."

You may have this belief as a result of feeling stuck in a certain situation. Maybe you've been in a job you hate for years and you believe that you can't make a change. Or perhaps you're in a relationship that isn't fulfilling and you believe that you can't leave.

The truth is, you constantly have the power to change your life if you're willing to take the necessary steps. If you want to make a change, start by taking small steps in the right direction.

Over time, you'll build up the confidence and courage to make bigger changes.

7. "I don't have enough _____." (money, resources, knowledge, etc.)

This is another top 10 self-limiting belief that can take many different forms. Maybe you believe you don't have enough money, time, or resources. But this sort of thinking can prevent you from taking action and achieving your goals.

To overcome this belief, try to focus on what you do have and how you can use it to your advantage.

For example, if you believe you don't have enough money to save, adopt some frugal living tips to free up room in your budget.

8. "I'm not good at _____." (fill in the blank with anything... relationships, parenting, my job, managing money, etc.)

Listen... everyone has something they're not good at — even the most influential people in the world. But that doesn't mean you can't get better at whatever it is you’re trying to accomplish.

Instead of saying, "I'm not good at managing money," for example, say, "I'm not good at managing money... yet. But I'm getting there."

When you just say, "I'm not good" (period), you slam the door in your face. You write yourself off and convince yourself things can never get better.

But when you add the word "yet" at the end, you give space to opportunity. You become a student, willing and ready to learn what it takes to improve. And it can make all the difference if you want to overcome limiting beliefs.

9. "I don't have time for this."

How many times have you told yourself, "I don't have time for _____."? Maybe you believe you don't have time to work out, cook healthy meals, or pursue your hobbies.

It's one of the top 10 self-limiting beliefs that holds a lot of people back from living really fulfilling lives.

The truth is, you can make time for anything you want. It might take some effort and planning, but it's totally possible. So instead of saying, "I don't have time for this," say, "I'm going to make time for this."

10. "I don't know how to _____." (fill in the blank with anything... be happy, change my life, make friends, etc.)

First of all, you're not alone. Many people feel like they don't know how to do something... especially when it comes to audacious things like finding happiness, changing your life for the better, or navigating motherhood as a shy mom.

Fortunately, you have options. Read self-help books, ask questions, see a therapist... do whatever it takes to find the answers you're looking for.

And remember, it's okay to not have all the answers right away. Just take it one day at a time, and eventually, you'll figure out what works for you.

How to change limiting beliefs

Now you know the correct answer to, "what is a limiting belief?" If you want to change any of these top 10 self-limiting beliefs, give these exercises a try. It’ll help you identify which thoughts may be holding you back so you can chart a path forward.

1. Recognize when you have any of these top 10 self-limiting beliefs

The first step to overcoming self-limiting beliefs is to acknowledge that you have them. It could seem obvious, but some people are not even aware of the negative beliefs they hold about themselves.

A limiting beliefs exercise like this could be as simple as pausing every time you have a negative thought or emotion, then writing it down in a journal or in a note on your phone so you can evaluate it.

You can also write down positive thoughts that you want to start believing. When we write things down, over time we can make these good beliefs part of our identity.

2. Pinpoint where the top 10 self-limiting beliefs originated from

Once you’ve acknowledged that you have a top 10 self-limiting belief, it’s time to pinpoint where it's originating from. Oftentimes, self-limiting beliefs are rooted in our past experiences.

For example, if you believe that you’re not good at managing money, it’s possible this belief originated from a negative experience you had in the past.

Maybe you ran up a high balance on your credit card in college or took out a predatory personal loan without reading the terms. These types of experiences can lead to the development of self-limiting beliefs.

3. Question the validity of these top 10 self-limiting beliefs

Once you have pinpointed where the belief originated from, the next limiting beliefs exercise is to question the validity of the belief. You cannot skip this step because it allows you to see that the belief may not be true.

For example, let's say that you believe you’re bad at eating healthy and exercise. You may have had a negative experience in the past that led to the development of this belief. However, this doesn’t mean the belief is true.

Maybe you’re good at fitness, but in college you had a very busy schedule and lots of commitments that kept you from spending time on your health. But now, you work out several times a week and try to eat balanced meals.

These are examples of how you can question the validity of a self-limiting belief.

4. Reframe these top 10 self-limiting beliefs

A great way to overcome these top 10 self-limiting beliefs is to reframe the belief. The reframing step is important because it allows you to see the situation in a new light.

For example, let's say you believe you’re not good at budgeting. You can reframe this belief by telling yourself that you’re not good at budgeting currently because you haven't made a budget before, but you will become good at it with practice.

Or, you can tell yourself that you know how to organize your money, and you look forward to welcoming more of it into your life. Which is an empowering belief that can help you change the narrative.

These are both called positive affirmations, and they're perfect for combating negative beliefs.

5. Practice believing in yourself to overcome the top 10 self-limiting beliefs

After you’ve reframed your limiting belief, it’s time to put it into practice. You can coach yourself to have a better mindset. Which is great for your mental health and will allow you to combat those negative thoughts.

Give yourself grace and compassion, and repeat your positive affirmations every time you start to doubt yourself as a limiting beliefs exercise. Another way to “practice believing in yourself” is to do things that are outside of your comfort zone.

For example, if you want to become a better saver, sign up for a savings challenge. Or, if you want to become a better writer, start a blog.

The sky is the limit when it comes to practicing new beliefs. Just make sure that you take actionable steps that will help you move closer to your goal.

You can overcome the top 10 self-limiting beliefs and think positively!

Self-limiting beliefs can hold us back from achieving our goals and reaching our full potential. However, when you follow this guide, you will overcome limiting beliefs and start living the life you want to live!

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50 Money Affirmations That Work Fast To Change Your Mindset https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/money-affirmations-that-work-fast/ Fri, 23 Sep 2022 14:05:29 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=35185 […]

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Money affirmations that work fast

With so many messages bombarding us from every direction, it can be tough to stick to our goals. But when you can focus your mind on the things that matter most, it makes all the difference. That’s why money affirmations that work fast can be so powerful.

Money affirmations that you repeat to yourself on a regular basis can help you to make better financial decisions. In addition, money affirmations can work fast to help you change your mindset—it doesn’t have to take years of practice to see a difference!

What are money affirmations?

Most of us are familiar with affirmations in some format. Affirmations in general are simply positive statements that can help you change your life. So by focusing on positivity and goals, you can form a healthier mindset.

You can use different types of these statements—relational affirmations, career affirmations, health affirmations, and of course, money affirmations. Positive affirmations for students, for young children, and for just about anyone can make a difference.

Money affirmations are brief statements that you can claim for yourself about how you want to relate to money. State them aloud or on paper and repeat them often to start believing that they are true.

How to use money affirmations

Using money affirmations or mantras lets you see just how influential your thoughts are in guiding your actions. Besides, it’s easier to achieve your goals if you speak to and about yourself in positive ways. So here’s how it works.

Use positivity to counteract negative messages

First of all, your money affirmations that work fast must be spoken in a positive manner. In other words, focus your phrasing so that it’s an affirmative or positive sentence. These can help you fight against the negative money affirmations you might hear from other people or sources.

Good affirmation: I create new money-earning opportunities every day. 

Not-so-good affirmation: I don’t spend money I don’t have.

So your best money affirmations that work instantly are those that state a positive truth about you and your money. They don’t have to be true right now, but you need to state them as though they are.

Since many people are in the habit of negative self-talk, it’s key to use positive language about ourselves regularly to counteract that. Positive affirmations can set you up for greatness by getting you away from toxic messages like “I’m bad with money” or “I’ll never afford that.”

Watch out for negative affirmations that create self-doubt. For example, these are phrases like:

Saving money never gets me anywhere.

I'm not lucky with money.

Only rich people can do that.

You might be in the habit of stating these negative comments to yourself because someone in your life said them to you first.

Aim to stop listening to those other voices, whether a parent, a significant other, a sibling or anyone else who makes you feel bad about yourself and your money.

State affirmations as though they are part of your life currently

If you want money affirmations that work fast, one way to trick your mind is by stating affirmations in the present tense. For example, you’re stating things about your money mindset that are happening at the moment, not next week or next year.

In any case, using the present tense for all your financial affirmations helps you to believe that what you’re saying is true.

So the more you embrace it as reality and not just a dream, the more likely you are to follow through on the actions within those affirmations.

Allow your mind to accept these ideas as fact

Now, be sure that as you’re writing or repeating your money affirmations, you phrase them as facts. This relates to using the present tense and being positive but takes it a step further.

Example: I am good with money.

This phrase frames the concept as something that is absolutely true, which helps you think of it that way, as well.

It’s so simple, isn’t it? So many of us tell ourselves limiting or negative things about our abilities with money. But you can use money affirmations that work fast to help you reframe the way you see yourself.

These affirmations by themselves don’t actually shift your finances. What they do is change your mindset so that you gain confidence to start that side hustle, pay off that debt, or ask for a raise.

By making good money affirmations a part of your thinking, you can literally change your life.

How can money affirmations change your mindset?

Many books have been written that explore how you can change your mindset, and positive affirmations are one tactic to accomplish this. If you grew up with harmful money attitudes due to your family’s beliefs or circumstances, now’s the time to change your mindset.

Money affirmations don’t automatically bring money into your life. They’re not a magic bullet. However, don’t underestimate how powerful they can be in changing how you think.

So the more you listen to limiting beliefs like “you’re not good enough” or “you’re bad with money,” the more you believe them.

On the other hand, if you program your mind to believe you’re capable of success with money and deserve money, repetition of those affirmations will eventually help you to believe them.

I’m reminded of the ratio you might have heard of, which states that for every negative interaction, you need to have 5 positive interactions to balance it out. It’s from research done by Dr. Gottman in the 1970s on marriages, but you can imagine how it applies to other areas.

If that research is even partly right, it would indicate that for every negative money thought you’ve had, you need to combat it with at least five positive money thoughts.

So the more you focus your mind on money affirmations, the more you’ll trust yourself and make great money results happen.

List of 50 money affirmations that work fast!

Now that the concept of money affirmations is fairly clear, here’s a list of 50 money affirmations that work instantly to start reshaping your money mindset.

Money affirmations for a better financial mindset

How you think about money is crucial to how you spend, save, and give money. Your money mindset, though it’s been shaped all your life, can be improved fast, starting with good money affirmations which are key elements of positive change.

1. I strive for progress, not perfection.

2. My intuition about money guides me to good things.

3. I am good with money.

4. My money skills are always growing.

5. I set SMART mid-term goals.

6. My past money mistakes led me to my abundant present life.

7. I spend money in alignment with my values.

8. Wise credit card use benefits me.

9. I am achieving my financial goals.

10. I embrace challenges that help me grow.

Money affirmations for gratitude

Gratitude on its own is a powerful tool that has so many benefits, such as better health and increased happiness.

Money affirmations that work instantly include those that promote gratitude. So being grateful for what is true right now can be very helpful.

Accordingly, here are some financial affirmations centered on gratitude.

11. I love my financial position right now.

12. My attitude of mindfulness helps me to appreciate what I have.

13. I’m thankful that I’m current on all of my bills.

14. Abundance enables me to share with those in need.

15. My wealth extends beyond money.

16. I give to others so that I can appreciate the gifts given to me.

17. My children appreciate the financial security I provide for them.

18. Spending decisions are mine to make.

19. Living on less makes my life better.

20. I release what I cannot control.

Money affirmations for accomplishing your savings goals

Most of us desire to save more money. This isn’t always easy, but believing you can do it is the first step. In addition, reminding yourself of why you want to save money through these mantras can keep you focused on those goals.

Many of these are money affirmations that work instantly to change your behavior. When adopting a habit, such as a 48-hour waiting period, making a money affirmation for it can help, as you'll read below.

21. I have more than enough income to save for my future.

22. Paying myself first is a priority.

23. Saving money now is how I bless my future self.

24. I choose to save half my income.

25. Saving is an act of abundance, not of scarcity.

26. My high savings rate is a fun way that I challenge myself.

27. Frugality is a joyful choice.

28. Discipline is my freedom. (That’s the “Upholder” motto from Gretchen Rubin’s The Four Tendencies framework.)

29. I wait 48 hours before purchasing.

30. Following a budget gives me what I want.

Money affirmations to attract wealth

Many people struggle with the idea of building wealth. Likewise, maybe we have a poor money mindset that told us wealth was evil or selfish, or that we didn’t deserve to be wealthy.

So use these money affirmations that work to change your mindset on wealth-building. You can attract money into your life as a result!

Remember that it takes time to build significant wealth, even with money affirmations that work fast. So the daily decisions added up over months and years will lead to a brighter financial future.

31. Financial podcasts and books teach me strategies to grow my wealth.

32. My work today is building generational wealth.

33. Wise investments are building my wealth even today.

34. I deserve to be wealthy.

35. Seeking wealth is an unselfish act.

36. Taking risks opens up new opportunities.

37. Compound interest works in my favor.

38. My earning potential is limitless.

39. I am confident.

40. I can see income opportunities everywhere.

Money affirmations for specific goals

These are a few potential examples of financial goals and how to structure your money affirmations around them. Of course, you should tailor them to your own goals and dreams.

41. I am a successful entrepreneur.

42. My kids are growing to be responsible with money.

43. I’m turning 10K into 100K.

44. The business I’m starting is already successful.

45. I surround myself with goal-oriented people.

46. I am on track to retire early.

47. My choices are making me a millionaire.

48. Passive real estate investing is an effective part of my money strategy.

49. Smart money management gives me lifestyle freedom.

50. I can do this!

How to practice money affirmations

Once you’ve settled on your top money affirmations (you might pick two or three to emphasize), put them into practice. Because money affirmations that work fast have to be used constantly.

Repeating them to yourself, saying them aloud, and sharing them publicly will cement them in your mind.

Say them daily

Firstly, be sure to put these affirmations on “repeat” every day, even multiple times per day. You can start the habit of saying these mantras first thing in the morning and just before you go to sleep.

You might pair your money affirmations with specific actions. For example, whenever you go to a store or an online shopping site, repeat your money affirmation such as “Frugality is a joyful choice.”

Create a visual

Another strategy to help you practice money affirmations that work fast: create a visual aid.

Many of us respond better to visual cues than verbal ones. You can find a photo or graphic illustration that pairs well with your affirmation, then display it where you’ll see it often.

Visual reminders of your affirmations can simply be written in a nice font or with images. Place them somewhere prominent, such as above your desk or on your bathroom mirror.

Use positive thinking apps

In addition to old-fashioned ways of recording your money affirmations, you can use positive thinking apps. These may give you reminders of your mantras at specific times or reminders to say them to yourself.

ThinkUp is one happiness app that might help. You can find affirmations they provide or personalize it with your own selected money affirmations. Additionally, the basic version is free and can help you develop a daily affirmation practice.

Plenty of other apps also provide guidance for developing and using affirmations. You might use affirmations not only to improve your relationship with money but in other areas too!

Leverage these money affirmations that work, to change your life!

Money affirmations can play a part in manifesting the life you want and the life you deserve. Though not magical, they can work fast to change your thoughts and therefore, your life.

Try these financial affirmations to rewire your mind to be more confident and motivated. As a result, you'll take charge of your money by starting with strategically positive thoughts.

In addition, work to improve other aspects of your life by reading our articles about mental health and morning affirmations!

The post 50 Money Affirmations That Work Fast To Change Your Mindset appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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How To Overcome Your Limiting Beliefs About Money https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/limiting-beliefs-about-money/ Thu, 01 Sep 2022 13:13:30 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=33870 […]

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Limiting beliefs about money

Are you a victim of your limiting beliefs about money?

You're not alone. According to a new report, 50% of Americans say they feel at least a little trapped in their financial situation. Seventeen percent feel very trapped.

When you feel stuck in your financial situation, it can be hard to learn how to make a change and move forward—and it's depressing and disheartening.

Usually, these feelings of entrapment are founded on your limiting beliefs about money. Many times they can also be tied to money myths.

But you can change your beliefs—and you can change your life. In this article, you'll learn just how to do that!

What are limiting beliefs about money?

Firstly, you need to understand what limiting beliefs about money are. These are ideas you maintain about money, your relationship with money, and your ability and worthiness to get money.

Above all, these limiting beliefs about money are opinion-based, not fact-based. This actually helps them get stronger over time because they are reinforced by our emotions—not rational thinking.

We all have limiting beliefs about money, so there's nothing to be ashamed of here! Often, these beliefs are so ingrained in us that we don't even realize we have them.

Where do these beliefs come from?

There isn't just one source to blame for limiting beliefs about money.

Throughout your life, there are many different contributing factors that shape your beliefs about money, such as:

  • Family
  • Friends
  • Social norms
  • Culture
  • Personal experiences
  • Exposure to the internet, social media, etc.

How do limiting beliefs about money impact people?

While limiting beliefs about money are subconscious, they have powerful effects on your reality. And if you don't keep them in check, these limiting beliefs can prove to be detrimental to your financial wellness and your life.

One of the most common examples of limiting beliefs about money is that you can't make good money unless you have a desk job. If you have this belief, then you may be holding yourself back from going after your dreams of starting a business.

Whether they're subconscious or not, limiting beliefs about money can keep you stuck.

How to overcome limiting beliefs about money

Your money mindset plays a large role in determining your financial success. This is why it's so important to develop a positive money mindset or a mindset of financial abundance. Doing so will open up new ways to think about money and wealth and help set you on the correct track for financial wellness.

How can you start changing your money mindset?

The beginning step to overcoming your limiting beliefs about money is to become aware of them. Once you acknowledge that your limiting beliefs about money exist and you realize what they are, you can find ways to counter them.

Examples of limiting beliefs about money

There are many different limiting beliefs about money, and we've all found ourselves trapped in a few.

Here are several common examples of limiting beliefs about money.

Do you see yourself in any? It's okay. Now you can learn ways to counter these limiting beliefs about money so you can work towards financial wellness.

1. I can either do what I love or make money

Growing up, you may have heard some version of this story from parents, career advisors, or even Hollywood films. Does the trope of the starving artist/writer/actor ring any bells?

Maybe without even thinking about it, you've accepted that you can't make a living doing something you love. Here's a new mantra:

"I can make money doing what I love"

Actually, doing what you love can be a huge advantage in trying to turn a profit. The more you love what you're doing, the more creative, focused, and passionate you'll be about your job—diligent qualities that can help you perform better and bring home a bigger paycheck.

2. Money doesn't buy happiness

Unfortunately, stereotypes in Hollywood films, books, and art reinforce the idea that wealthy people are miserable. (Do Ebenezer Scrooge from a Christmas Carol or Mr. Potter from It's a Wonderful Life sound familiar?)

Moreover, there are also many spiritual ideas that affirm you can't tie happiness to money in any way. But there's another way you can think of it:

"Money can buy the things I want for a good life"

Money is a tangible object; it can't buy something intangible, like feelings.

What it can do, however, is act as a resource to buy things you do love. For example, you can use the money to take art classes, buy a musical instrument, or travel.

3. You need money to make money

Maybe you have big dreams about starting your own business or setting up an investment account—but you're stuck by the idea that it takes money to make money.

Unfortunately, this limiting belief about money can stop people from ever getting started pursuing their dreams. It's time to flip the script:

"I can start from where I am"

Believe it or not, you can start from nothing.

4. I can never save

Sometimes, it can feel like everyone is succeeding except you. If you're watching your friends save up for weddings, houses, or big vacations, it can be disheartening if you feel like you can never get your savings up.

Even though it can feel overwhelming to get started, you can do it! It starts with changing your mindset:

"I am learning more about money and saving every day"

No one is born with knowledge about money or how to save it wisely. It's just another skill to learn—like sewing or playing the piano.

If you study money and good saving habits, you'll see that improvements will shortly follow.

Get started today reading about personal finance and investing—and then keep at it!

5. My family isn't rich

In some families, there is generational wealth, and people have the opportunity and the privilege to get financial help and education from their families.

Certainly, if you feel like you're climbing the uphill financial battle, then this feels really unfair. But you have to remind yourself:

"I am not my family"

No matter what kind of financial choices your family made, you have the opportunity to build your own financial wellness and achieve financial independence.

It starts with creating a financial roadmap that will take you through budgeting, debt prioritization, investing, and more.

6. I am always broke

If you feel like you're always broke, you're not the only one.

An American Psychological Association (APA) study found that 72% of Americans "feel stressed about money at least some of the time."

While it's typical to feel a little stressed every now and then, you don't have to keep feeling broke forever.

"My current financial situation is not my permanent financial situation"

Maybe you have debt. Maybe you feel like you never save enough at the end of the month. Nevertheless, just because you feel broke today doesn't mean you have to feel that way forever.

Start small. Step by step, you can change your financial situation.

7. Money is the root of all evil

Again, this is another one of those limiting beliefs about money that you may have absorbed from pop culture.

There's an enduring notion that money is dirty and that people with money are mean, greedy, and selfish. But you could think of it this way:

"Money is a resource that can be used for good"

Money is only an inanimate object; it is not inherently good, and it is not inherently bad.

Whether or not money is "dirty" is all about the person. You can decide to use money as a resource for good.

For example, you can leverage your financial wellness to help support your family, donate to charities, create a scholarship fund, etc.

8. I don't deserve wealth

Maybe you think you are simply not good enough to make money. This is an enormous roadblock to your financial wellness.

Often, people can develop this limiting belief about money if they had a previous bad financial experience, and they blame themselves for making the mistake. But we all make mistakes every now and then. Instead, say to yourself:

"I am worthy of wealth"

Everyone—no matter who you are—is worthy of wealth.

You are worthy of happiness. You are worthy of a good life. And though money may not be everything, it can certainly help lead you to the life you deserve.

9. I will never pay off my debt

Staring at what feels like a mountain of debt can be a terrifying feeling. It's particularly disheartening if you only make the minimum payment each month and watch interest cripple your bank account.

But there is another way:

"I can come up with strategies to pay off my debt"

Remember that debt is not a lifetime sentence. In some cases, yes, it can take years to pay off debt. But if you approach your debt strategically, you can come up with a debt repayment plan that works for you.

With time, you'll see that small steps can lead to big changes in your financial situation.

10. It's too late to change my financial future

This is one of the most stifling beliefs you can have about money. Basically, it's all about feeling stuck. For example, do you catch yourself saying:

  • "It's too late to begin investing now"
  • "I missed my chance"
  • "My job doesn't pay enough"

"It is never too late for me to make a change"

Above all, the most important thing to remember is that no matter where you are on your financial journey, today can always be Day 1 of a new life. And no matter what obstacles you're facing, you can take control of your financial future and your life.

It's never too late. All it takes is the first step:

Overcome your limiting beliefs about money and find freedom!

It could be way too easy to fall victim to your limiting beliefs about money. Surprisingly, it can also be easy to overcome these limiting beliefs and find financial freedom.

Of course, it won't happen overnight. In order to overcome your limiting beliefs about money, you need to change your mindset about money.

Once you do, you'll open up new avenues to learn, grow, and build your wealth. You can start today by learning more about budgeting and wealth secrets.

The post How To Overcome Your Limiting Beliefs About Money appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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6 Secrets Of Self Made Millionaires You Need To Know! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/secrets-of-self-made-millionaires/ Thu, 04 Aug 2022 18:28:45 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=32052 […]

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Secrets of self made millionaires

Wealthy people have an entirely unique relationship with money. Rather than counting every last dime, financially-minded individuals know how to make their money work for them. It’s an art form. So, if you’re wanting to save money and take control of your finances, learning the money secrets of self made millionaires is a smart place to start!

Most of us have wondered how to become a self made millionaire at some point. While there isn't any tried and tested way to make millions overnight (sorry!), you can learn a thing or two from the wealthiest in society.

Understanding how to master your finances may be a lifelong journey. But you have to start somewhere.

What is a self made millionaire?

First things first, let’s talk about what a self made millionaire is. It’s all in the name.

These are individuals who were not born into wealth but worked their way to riches. The most famous examples include Warren Buffet, Barbara Corcoran, and Janice Bryant Howroyd.

These savvy-minded business people had relatively normal upbringings but worked hard and managed to create empires. Over time, they learned the money secrets of self made millionaires and used them to their advantage.

They are living the American Dream — working hard to get where they want to be. While you might not have a million-dollar idea, you can learn from their financial approaches.

These individuals have a keen financial understanding — they know how to invest their money and make it work for them in the long run.

By keeping their sights set on the years to come and using their earnings wisely, they ensure that they have the finances to keep moving forward.

Secrets of self made millionaires

The super-wealthy have a growth attitude. That means that they are always looking for ways in which they can enhance their capital. No matter where you are with your personal finance journey, gaining new understanding will help you save money and could make you rich.

It isn't too late to take control of your finances and start building your own wealth. Let’s check out these 6 main money secrets of self made millionaires and how you can utilize them.

1. One income stream is not enough

How many income streams do you have? Do you rely on a day job — or do you have a side job? One of the most important millionaire lessons you need to learn is that one stream of income is never enough.

If you only have money coming in from your nine-to-five role, you could quickly lose that overnight. If the company goes bust or makes cuts, your head and your livelihood could be on the line faster than you imagine. It’s a dangerous game to play.

Building real, sustainable wealth is all about having multiple income streams. 65% of self made millionaires have a total of three income streams, according to the Rich Habits study. Use your creativity to make additional streams of income.

For example, you may start freelancing on the side of your day job, start selling things online, or even launch a drop-shipping business from home. When you have spare time, consider ways that you can start increasing your income with extra streams.

2. Learn how to make your money go further

There’s a perception that millionaires live the most lavish lifestyles. While these people can afford the best that the world has to offer, that doesn’t mean that they are frivolous.

One of the biggest money secrets of self made millionaires is that they are frugal. Now, there’s a difference between being frugal and being cheap.

Whenever you have to buy something — whether it’s groceries, a new car, or even a condo — there are ways that you can save money. That doesn’t mean that you buy the cheapest, lowest-quality option.

Understanding how to manage your money makes all the difference when you start to gain wealth. You don't want to start over-spending and see your cash disappear.

Learning how to budget and make smart money choices is the way to go. It shows a level of maturity that few people have about them.

Overspending on things for the sake of it is always a mistake — you need to consider, as millionaires do, whether you are getting the best possible price.

Secrets of self made millionaires

3. Spend less, invest more

While we’re on the subject of over-spending, here’s one of the money secrets of self made millionaires that you can’t ignore.

When you start to make a significant amount of money, you need to begin investing it, rather than spending it. That could mean using an investment platform to buy stocks. However, you can also think outside of the box.

You may choose to invest some of your money in supporting a new local business. Having shares in a startup is a gamble but may make you extra cash.

Most of all, spend less money and invest more of it. This can help you become wealthy.

4. Don’t fall for lifestyle creep

Lifestyle creep is a common problem people face when they start to make more money. As your income increases, so does the amount you spend. For example, you might rent a larger apartment, buy more expensive clothes, or spend more on vacations.

While you should be able to enjoy the fruits of your labor, allowing your lifestyle to become too expensive won’t do you any favors. Instead, you need to stay within smaller means. This is one of the secrets of self made millionaires. They focus on stealth wealth.

Imagine all the money you could save up if you spent the same amount as before while simultaneously increasing the amount you earn. It could make a major difference.

5. Surround yourself with the right people

How do the people around you speak about money? What do they say when you talk about saving your cash?

You won’t learn how to become a self made millionaire if you’re surrounded by people who fear their finances or don't know how to handle money. For some, the idea of personal finance can be intimidating.

If that sounds familiar to you, it’s time to make a change. Finding a group of people who are focused on enhancing their wealth is the way to go.

When you’re speaking to these individuals, they will likely inspire you to do more with your money. You need to be around people who give you the motivation that you’ve been looking for to change your life and become wealthy.

6. Avoid buying based on desire

Shopping is a sure-fire way to waste your money, which can keep you from wealth. Whether you’re on a low wage or a millionaire, you shouldn’t be throwing your cash down the drain.

To help you understand this, there’s a golden rule you can stick to. Don’t buy things based on desire alone.

Let’s say that you see something you want. Before you rush to grab your credit card, consider whether you a) need it, and b) can afford it. You need to tick both of those boxes before you go to the checkout.

Desire drives compulsive spending. That means that you can quickly lose money purely because you are not thinking your purchases through.

There isn't anything wrong with treating yourself to something nice now and then. However, if the majority of your purchases happen on a whim, that is a problem.

Whenever you’re shopping, you should take a more mindful approach to your actions. That way, you will make better choices.

Books on how to become a self made millionaire

Looking for some extra advice on how to become a self made millionaire? While we’ve covered some of the secrets, you might want to do some further reading. Knowledge is power, after all.

Here are three of our favorites for wealth-building books.

Note: These are affiliate links. If you purchase a book from these links we may earn a commission which helps us grow!

1. Secrets of Self Made Millionaires by Matthew R. Kratter

Written by Matthew R. Kratter, ​​Secrets of Self Made Millionaires is a compilation of his three previous books along with some new material. The guide includes how to create a passive income, how to compound wealth like an investor, and small money-based tips.

2. The Self Made Millionaire Recipe by Mychelle A. Bell

Next up, The Self Made Millionaire Recipe is a female-authored money guide written just for women. By reading this one, you will learn how to become more self-aware, how to recognize what your priorities are, and how to create the winning mindset to succeed.

3. Millionaire Mindset and Success Habits  by H.J. Chammas

Perhaps one of the most famous additions, the Millionaire Mindset and Success Habits is a must-read. Written by award-winning best-selling author, H.J. Chammas, the book aims to help you rid yourself of limiting beliefs and start building wealth in a steady manner.

Leverage these secrets of self made millionaires today!

Reaching financial freedom is a solid goal. Now that you know the money secrets of self made millionaires, what are you waiting for?

Building wealth is about aligning with a series of small habits that will make a big difference. You don’t have to completely change your entire lifestyle. However, you should look at the changes you can make.

You may start by creating a minimalist budget, adopting a new money mindset, or getting more knowledge about finance. Check out Clever Girl Finance's free courses to help!

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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.

The post How To Attract Money Into Your Life 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 […]

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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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7 Steps For Reframing Negative Thoughts https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/reframing-negative-thoughts/ Wed, 23 Mar 2022 21:35:26 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=18379 […]

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Reframing negative thoughts

Guilt, shame, fear, stress. These are all intense feelings that derive from negative thoughts. One minor setback or judgment could have us spiraling into a dark hole of negative thoughts, impacting our progress and our outlook on life. Reframing negative thoughts helps you climb out of that dark hole to improve your outlook.

Negative thoughts are normal and will arise from time to time. They could, however, begin to affect you emotionally, physically, and even financially. According to a recent research study, repetitive negative thoughts were linked to declines in brain function and even memory over time.

Our thoughts hold the key to our personal success and growth. How we think about ourselves and our progress impacts our motivation. Learning to practice reframing negative thoughts will help you stay grounded, driven, and optimistic.

Why you should reframe negative thoughts

Before we get into how to clear your mind of negative thoughts, let's discuss why you should. Negative thoughts impact more than just your mental health. It can also affect your physical health and emotional well-being. Your thoughts have a big impact on how you see yourself.

Thoughts that are less than positive and empowering can also hinder your personal growth and success. Negative thoughts can fester and cause you to stop yourself from progressing. Maintaining a positive mindset helps you continue to grow and evolve.

So with that being said, let's get to how you can start challenging negative thoughts and change your mindset!

7 Actionable steps for reframing negative thoughts

Don’t let negative thoughts impact your outlook on yourself, finances, and progress. Reimagine the way you think with a few steps on reframing negative thoughts. Let's dive into how to clear your mind of negative thoughts!

1. Identify your thoughts and validate them

Once a negative thought pops up, we often try to suppress it. However, it’s important to acknowledge those thoughts. Point out when and how negative thoughts arise. Is it typically around payday, when the stress of covering your bills mounts up?

Is it right before a major presentation at work? Validate your feelings related to those thoughts. Suppressing feelings around your thoughts can do more harm than good.

It's normal to have these feelings when negative thoughts take over. Identifying your thoughts helps you understand and recognize them so you can reframe your mindset. This is the first step of challenging negative thoughts!

2. Practice emotional intelligence to reframe negative thoughts

Practicing emotional intelligence is a great skill to have when reframing negative thoughts. Emotional intelligence is the ability to control and evaluate your emotions objectively. You can use emotional intelligence to perceive and respond to your thoughts differently.

Thoughts are often fueled by our emotions and, sometimes, are not based on facts. Remember a time when you received criticism at work? Rather than negatively thinking about your performance as an employee, see it as a crucial learning experience to help you grow in your field.

Practice leading with your logic and not with your emotions to tackle negative thoughts.

Challenging negative thoughts 1 Challenging negative thoughts 2

3. Challenge your negative thoughts with positive affirmations

How do you start challenging negative thoughts easily? Use positive affirmations for negative thoughts! Affirmations are positive phrases or statements used to challenge negative or unhelpful thoughts. Affirmations have been proven to boost your mood, decrease stress, and actively change the parts of your brain that activate happiness.

Take negative thoughts and turn them into something positive by rephrasing them. Reciting positive affirmations is key to reframing your negative thoughts before they arrive.

Positive affirmations for negative thoughts

Here are a few positive affirmations for negative thoughts to help you challenge and reframe them:

  • "Every day I am getting better and better."
  • "I'm capable and ready for any challenge that comes my way."
  • "I deserve to be loved, respected, and heard."
  • "I am more than enough and don’t have to prove my worth to anyone."
  • I’m grateful for the opportunity to learn something new.

So using affirmations is how to clear your mind of negative thoughts! Be sure to check out our posts "50 Morning Affirmations To Change Your Life!" and "55 Financial Affirmations You Should Tell Yourself" to get started.

4. Give yourself patience and grace

Negative thoughts, especially around self-worth and comparing yourself to others, can cause you to be hard on yourself. Practice self-compassion when reframing negative thoughts. Give yourself grace and patience when challenging thoughts that are pessimistic and unconstructive to your growth.

We are all human and will experience negative thoughts from time to time. Ultimately, we are in full control of how those thoughts impact us and show up in our self-talk. Be kind to yourself and change the narrative around your thoughts.

Are you hard on yourself about sticking to your financial journey? Reframe negative thoughts around your finances by tackling your budget one step at a time. Then, celebrate each step you make along the way. You deserve to give yourself credit for your progress.

5. Depersonalize negative thoughts

Negative thoughts can get personal, framing the way you feel about yourself and your worth. Reframe your negative thoughts by avoiding personalizing the negativity. Avoid taking negative thoughts to heart; thoughts are often only temporary and do not always reflect who you truly are.

Depersonalize negative thoughts using positive self-talk to reshape your mindset. Thoughts are meant to come and go, so quiet your inner monologue by letting them pass. Let go of any thoughts that don't serve you in a positive, healthy way.

6. Create healthy outlets to clear your mind of negative thoughts

Negative thoughts create a spiral effect that can alter the way you take care of yourself. Creating healthy outlets for yourself like mediation or exercise is how to clear your mind of negative thoughts. Focus on your mental and physical health first.

Do something you enjoy, whether it’s listening to new music, taking a walk, cooking, or exercising. A healthy and positive self-care routine is a good antidote to combat negative thoughts.

It also helps you to stay present and in the moment. Distract yourself from negative thoughts with things you truly enjoy.

7. Spend time with family and friends to encourage yourself

It helps to get a different perspective when reframing negative thoughts. Look to your friends and family for a better outlook on your negative thoughts. They are a great resource to help you see your thoughts more clearly and challenge those thoughts with affirming ones.

Turning to your loved ones also helps shift your focus away from negative thoughts. Spending time with friends and family can distract you when negative thoughts surface. Spend quality time that’s fun and enjoyable with your friends and family to help clear your mind of negative thoughts.

Start reframing negative thoughts and improve your outlook!

Don’t let negative thoughts impact your progress and outlook on life. Learn to reframe your negative thoughts so that you can achieve more and give yourself the credit you deserve. Remember, to also use positive affirmations for negative thoughts to improve your outlook on life!

The post 7 Steps For Reframing Negative Thoughts appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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How To Stay Positive In A Negative World   https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/how-to-stay-positive-in-a-negative-world/ Sat, 12 Mar 2022 19:30:10 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=18123 […]

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How to stay positive in a negative world

The world can often seem like a scary place. Right now, we’re living through what feels like some of the darkest years yet. Our challenge now is how to stay positive in a negative world. From horrifying world news to disturbing local news, from negativity at school to pessimism at home, sometimes it feels like we’re constantly surrounded by bad things.

Staying positive in a negative world is possible, though! Here, we discuss how to stay positive in a negative situation and a negative world. Ready to learn how to adjust your mindset? Read on for our nine best tips. But first, let's discuss if you have a positive or negative outlook.

Do you have a positive or negative outlook?

In general, do you have a positive or negative outlook? During hard times, and in such a negative world, it can be challenging to maintain your positive outlook. Thankfully, no matter how negative the world might be, you do have some control over how you react to it.

You can stay positive; it just might take some more dedication during tough times than easy ones.

The benefits of staying positive in a negative world

Having a positive outlook doesn’t just make your life more pleasant. It’s good for both your mental and physical well-being. There are actual, proven health benefits to positive thinking, including:

  • Lower rates of depression and stress
  • Better cardiovascular health
  • Higher resistance to illness
  • Reduced risk of death from cancer, respiratory conditions, and infections
  • An increased life span

After seeing these benefits, who wouldn’t want to learn how to stay positive in a negative situation!

When staying positive in a negative world, beware of toxic positivity

Keeping a positive outlook during negative times isn’t about pretending hard things don’t exist or about covering up your negative emotions. That’s toxic positivity – the attitude that you must maintain a positive outlook no matter how dire the circumstance. Toxic positivity denies all emotions that aren’t positive or happy, and it can be very dangerous to your mental health.

Instead of toxic positivity, what we’re talking about here is using positive psychology techniques to help you manage your emotions and get through all types of circumstances.

These techniques help you enjoy the good times but can also be used during times of stress and grief. In fact, practicing them can help you develop resilience and prepare you for making it through especially hard times.

How to stay positive in a negative world: 9 Essential ways

So no matter how destructive the world is right now, you can get more positivity in your life today. Try out one or more of the following tips and you’ll start to see changes in your outlook almost immediately. Here are the most effective ways how to stay positive in a negative situation:

1. Exercise and eat well

A healthy body helps to create a healthy, positive mind. Exercise really can change your mind and increase your levels of happiness and positivity. Whether it’s a walk at lunchtime or an exercise class after work, vow to move your body every day to keep up your levels of positivity.

If you’re feeling low, your first instinct might be to reach for a pint of ice cream. But, the best way to overcome those feelings is not through sweets but rather through healthy eating. Studies have shown that eating healthy foods like vegetables, salmon and even dark chocolate (yes!) can increase your mental health and overall happiness.

If you want to learn how to stay positive in a negative world, changing your diet is one way to do just that.

2. Celebrate yourself

Does it feel like there aren’t many things to celebrate in the world right now? The truth is, there’s almost always going to be something bad going on; that’s just life. But there’s also almost always something good going on, too. And that something often starts with you.

When was the last time you celebrated yourself? It was probably a significant milestone, like your wedding or graduation. Why not take a moment and celebrate yourself right now? It can be for anything – perhaps a presentation at work went well, or you achieved a personal best time on your at-home spin bike.

No matter what else is going on, don’t forget to celebrate your own wins, big and small. It will help you focus on the good that’s all around you, which there is plenty of.

3. Have more fun

Fun isn’t just for kids, but many adults forget this important fact. We get too involved in our jobs, running our households, and making sure everyone else has what they need. When that happens, fun is usually one of the first things that women, especially, forgo.

But fun and play are essential for decreasing your stress levels, improving your mood, stimulating your mind, and, yes, remaining optimistic in an otherwise pessimistic world. If you haven’t carved out some time for fun in a long time, try doing something fun (and free) with friends or with your family during a night in.

4. Practice gratitude

Practicing gratitude is a key way how to stay positive in a negative world. A gratitude practice is one of the simplest and most effective ways to cultivate a positive mindset. No matter who you are or where you are in life, there is something to be grateful for, and you can learn to appreciate the little things in life.

All you need is a journal and five minutes to jot down what you are thankful for, and you’ll be well on your way to increasing your positivity.

Need some guidance on where or how to start? A great way is by participating in a thirty-day challenge. You’ll develop the habit of practicing gratitude and stick with it well beyond those thirty days.

5. Cut out negative self-talk

The voice you hear the most is your own. And when that voice is constantly speaking negatively, it affects your entire outlook. We are already living in a negative world, don’t compound that with negative self-talk inside your own head, too.

It can be difficult to challenge negative thoughts and change your mindset, but it can be done. The first step is being aware of how you speak to yourself. Do you tell yourself things you would never say to a friend or even someone you disliked? If you’re like most women, you probably do, at least occasionally.

Once you realize how you’re speaking to yourself, try being kinder to yourself by practicing positive affirmations for self-love. Remember that positivity starts from within.

6. Surround yourself with uplifting people

Just like you don’t want to talk to yourself negatively all day, you also don’t want to be around others who speak poorly. Take stock of who you spend the most time with. Are these people who are building you up and making you feel better, or are they bringing you down?

If you are surrounded by too much negativity, it might be time to set some boundaries in your friendships. You don’t have to cut people out completely, but make a concerted effort to spend more time with those who have a positive outlook on life and who will help you maintain your positivity, too.

7. Start a daily routine

Having a daily routine will help reduce your stress levels and increase your overall happiness. What is the secret to how to stay positive in a negative situation? By creating structure and a routine for yourself.

When there is so much negativity around, it can feel like we are out of control, which can cause you to spiral. While you can’t control everything in life or the world, there are some things that you can control, like your morning routine. Having consistency in your day will help you remain positive in an ever-changing and challenging world.

8. Stop “doomscrolling”

Stopping yourself from constantly "doomscrolling" is one of the best ways for how to stay positive in a negative world! Are you guilty of doomscrolling – spending an excessive amount of time on your phone or computer consuming negative news? If so, you are not alone. Doomscrolling is reaching new heights, with everyone seemingly attached to their devices 24/7 and with a constant stream of terrible news.

Doomscrolling is harmful to your mental health and doesn’t actually help end any of the negativity you’re consuming. Instead of doomscrolling, ask yourself if there is something you can do.

Instead of focusing on negative news that you can’t do anything about, focus on what you can do. Is there something you can do to help? Donate to a cause? Attend a protest? Uplift those who are in your immediate environment?

9. Give back

Lots of these tips have been focused on looking inward and on changes you can make in your own mental and physical life. But looking outside of yourself can help bring about more positivity, too. That’s especially true when you give your time to helping others who are less fortunate.

People who give back are better equipped at handling stress and are overall more happy, positive people. If you already have a cause or an organization you donate to, keep it up.

If you’re looking for a way to give back (without even having to spend any money), volunteering or donating extra supplies are just two of the many ways to do just that.

Leverage these tips to learn how to stay positive in a negative world!

At times, it might feel like it’s easier to join the rest of the world and drown yourself in negativity. Hopefully, though, you’ve seen that staying positive in a negative world is beneficial to your overall health and happiness. So use these tips to help you become more positive starting now!

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11 Key Ways To Improve Your Money Mindset https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/how-you-can-improve-your-money-mindset/ Sun, 06 Mar 2022 13:20:00 +0000 https://clevergirlcgf.wpengine.com/?p=6601 […]

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Money mindset

When it comes to improving your personal finances your money mindset is a critical foundational piece. Your goals may revolve around becoming debt-free, saving money, investing, getting to 7 figures in savings but without the right financial mindset, it will be really difficult to accomplish.

These days all it takes is a quick Google search and within seconds you'll be provided with thousands of articles giving you step-by-step guidance on how to do all of the above to get you closer to your money goals.

But, if you've ever attempted to accomplish a difficult goal and failed, you know that it requires a lot more than a step-by-step guide of what to do in order to successfully meet that goal right?

So, in this article we are going to dive into how adjusting your mindset can help you achieve your goals, tips on how to do it, plus you get free access to our money mindset course!

Adjusting your money mindset to achieve your financial goals

The absolute most important part of being able to achieve your goals requires having the right mindset. Sounds simple enough right?

Well, it isn't always that easy to keep your mindset in check while you take on the (at times difficult) long-term task of building wealth.

Attaining the right mindset to build wealth means working on the way you think, working on discipline, getting uncomfortable, and doing what it REALLY takes to get to your end goal.

Improving your mindset is not a one-and-done type of thing. Just like with the muscles in your body, you have to work to maintain it continuously otherwise it will begin to deteriorate.

With that being said, let's jump into how to change your perception and attain a positive money mindset!

11 Key tips to create a positive money mindset

So, here are a few tips to help you improve your money mindset as you go along on your journey to building real wealth.

Remember, no matter what your current financial situation is you can change your mindset and money habits to achieve success. (You can also check out our list of favorite money mindset books!)

1. Decide to be financially successful

Getting wealthy actually starts way before you open that investment account or make that first deposit into your savings account. It starts with a simple decision, which in itself is a very profound one.

It's deciding that you are going to be wealthy and that in turn means deciding to commit to the journey and trust the process.

Deciding you are going to be wealthy (with full conviction) is an incredible boost to your mindset. This is because, with this decision, you are telling yourself you can do it. Unless you believe you can be wealthy, you probably won't be inclined to do what it takes to actually build wealth.

2. Determine your life values

Once you've decided you are going to be wealthy, you have to determine your reason for wanting this financial success. That means determining your 'why". Your "why" drives a deep sense of purpose and helps you develop the motivation you need.

In fact, having a "why" can directly improve factors in your life that tie into overall happiness.

So why do you want to pay off your debt, save money, become financially fit and successful, financially independent, etc?

Knowing your "why" will be your ultimate motivator. Especially on the days or during the seasons when things are not going exactly as you planned.

3. Let go of standards and focus on what really matters to you

When it comes to building wealth and working on your money mindset you have to go with what works for you and it's important to not get caught up in standards that are defined by the world. And you also want to avoid comparison with others; it's the thief of joy.

Again this goes back to your "why."

You might want to retire young, having $500,000 might be your definition of financial independence or perhaps it's $1 million. Or your financial goal might just be to have enough money to backpack around the world.

Whatever your goals might be, focus on your own standards and what money means to you in relation to what you want in your life.

4. Get comfortable with your fears and your discomfort

Anxiety and fear are natural byproducts when you want to accomplish something big. There's the fear of the unknown, the fear of change, the fear of failure.

And in many instances, fear can stop you dead in your tracks and can become really overwhelming. Especially when you start making up things in your head about all the "what ifs" and "whatnots" around what could happen (that more often than not, never happens).

The thing about fear though is that since it comes with the territory you really have two choices. The first choice is to let it keep you stuck. The second and better choice is to embrace fear as part of the journey, let it come along for the ride but let it know it's not allowed to hold you back.

One great way to overcome fear is to remember your "why" and look back at all the accomplishments you've had to date and the fears you overcame to get there. If you could get past those fears you can most definitely get past your current fears about money.

For every fear you have, there is probably one action (even if it's just a small one) you can take to counter the fear. For example, are you afraid you'll never get out of debt? You can focus on making a debt payment right now or in the near future to work against that fear.

Remind yourself constantly, no matter how terrifying it can be, that you can do this and focus on taking small steps every day before you know it, you will have made big progress.

5. Express gratitude

Expressing gratitude is one of the best money mindset exercises because it is a good way to adjust what you focus on. When you are grateful, you focus more on the things you have that you are appreciative of as well as on all the good that has come to you.

Gratitude also drives contentment in your life which is key to wealth building because when you are content with what you have, you are less compelled to spend, spend, spend, in order to gain material satisfaction which doesn't always work because you'll find that there's always something new that you can buy. Check out our 30-day gratitude challenge to get started!

6. Use affirmations to improve your money mindset

It's so easy to let negativity creep into our mindset. However, you can combat those bad thoughts with good ones! Using positive financial affirmations as part of your daily routine is another one of the top money mindset exercises to start.

In fact, studies show that practicing positive affirmations can actually reprogram your brain! So, using affirmations will improve your outlook and give you a healthy money mindset.

Check out our article on "55 Financial Affirmations You Should Tell Yourself" to stop the negative self-talk and incorporate more positivity into your thoughts!

7. Don't dwell on your past financial mistakes

If you beat yourself up for your past financial mistakes, it's time to stop. Why? Because failure is the path to success! We all make mistakes and have had money problems, but you can use them to learn lessons and grow as a person. This includes bettering yourself financially.

So rather than dwelling on what you did wrong, use those past experiences as a learning tool to make a financial plan to do better.

8. Let go of limiting money beliefs

Letting go of limiting beliefs is another key step to creating a positive money mindset. Limiting beliefs do just that...they limit you. You can achieve financial success if you try! So write down some big hairy audacious goals and set your sights high.

This is also another reason to use your daily affirmations. They will help you bust through those old beliefs and set new unlimited ones!

9. Get help with money mindset coaching and courses

So, what's the best way to improve your mindset about money? Get help with money mindset coaching! The best thing is, it doesn't have to cost you a dime.

Clever Girl Finance offers free money mindset coaching calls with our mentors! Plus, we have over 50 hours of prior replay videos on a wide variety of money topics. 

We also have over 30 financial courses and worksheets that are completely free! Our "Build a solid foundation" bundle includes a "how to transform your money mindset course" so you can go from a scarcity mindset to an abundance mindset.

We also have completely free courses on everything from budgeting to investing, so you have the tools you need to become financially successful!

10. Follow fin-fluencers to improve your money mindset

Getting inspired by fin-fluencers is one of the best ways to boost your financial mindset. They help you realize that they too have made money mistakes so you don't need to carry guilt or shame around for your past mistakes.

Listening to personal finance podcasts, reading books, blogs, and watching YouTube channels will give you the motivation to transform your bad money mindset into a good one! You will also learn how to change your behavior with money, with tips on how to save, budget, and invest for your financial future.

11. Use money mindset quotes to inspire you

Like affirmations, money mindset quotes can have a positive effect on your mentality.  Reading quotes also have a "coaching effect."

They motivate and inspire you. So, using money mindset quotes can really help you when it comes to your financial mindset.

Here are a few of our favorite quotes to get you started:

"If broke people are making fun of your financial plan, you are on the right track.” Unknown

“You don’t have to see the whole staircase, just take the first step.” – Martin Luther King, Jr.

“The slightest adjustments to your daily routines can dramatically alter the outcomes in your life.” Darren Hardy

“It is not necessary to do extraordinary things to get extraordinary results.” – Warren Buffett

“Stop being the chess piece, and start being the chess player. It’s time to master the game of money once and for all.” Tony Robbins

Need assistance finding more great money mindset quotes? Get started with our "Funny money quotes", and "Budgeting quotes" articles!"

Be sure to check out our full list of favorite quotes about becoming debt free. We also share some budget quotes, funny money quotes, mompreneur quotes, sustainable living quotes, and even quotes from the classic book, The Richest Man in Babylon!

You can improve your money mindset!

Having the right money mindset can make all the difference when it comes to achieving your life and financial goals. It will, however, require constant focus and nurturing.

It's all about setting the right intentions and keeping your goals top of mind. You are more than capable of adjusting and improving your financial mindset and the rewards will be well worth it.

Remember to practice money mindset exercises such as expressing gratitude, using inspirational quotes, and positive affirmations as part of your routine.

Don't forget to access our mentors for free money mindset coaching along with all of our completely free courses and worksheets!

The post 11 Key Ways To Improve Your Money Mindset appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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The Best Manifestation Methods to Create the Life You Truly Desire https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/the-best-manifestation-methods/ Sun, 27 Feb 2022 15:36:31 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=17768 […]

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Best manifestation methods

Can you create a life you desire? Can methods of manifestation make it possible? If so, what are the best manifestation methods that will truly work?

Manifestation is a massive topic with a big conversation surrounding it. Manifestation techniques allow you to fully believe in possibilities, and they may help you bring success to your life.

There are a lot of things to manifest and good things you can accomplish. Money, relationships, your health, and your career can all be improved through some sort of manifestation technique.

While truths and lies surround the subject, we'll unpack what manifestation is and isn't and practical applications, like the best manifestation methods you can try to help you achieve more!

What is manifestation?

Manifestation as an action is defined as "to make evident or certain by showing or displaying." That said, there is some confusion about manifestation.

Is it as simple as thinking about good things happening for you, and then they will? While manifestation may start with your thoughts, there's a lot more to it.

As a noun, it can mean "readily perceived by the senses and especially by the sense of sight." (Merriam-Webster) These definitions make it pretty apparent that you need to believe in possibilities, but also show that with what you do.

Is it just positive thinking?

Thinking about what you want to happen is a common belief of manifestation. But just positive thinking on its own may not do much. Action is also required for your life to change for the better. 

This means that, yes, you need to believe in your dreams and what you want to accomplish, but adding to that matters. You must show that you believe it by what you do.

For example, "I will be a successful lawyer someday, so I will study hard to excel in all my exams and put in the extra effort."

There's more to manifestation

Manifestation starts with knowing what you want and believing that it is possible. From there, you take action towards your goals, thinking that they'll happen.

However, positive thoughts are not a replacement for preparation. Positive thoughts need to also have positive actions, like using the best manifestation methods to help get you to your best life. 

Areas of life to manifest your best future

There are a lot of parts of your life that could benefit from the best manifestation methods. Your money goals, health and wellness, relationships, job, and more are all things that can be positively affected by methods of manifestation.

No matter what you want, using the best manifestation methods can help, whether your sights are set on a promotion in your career or you'd like the chance to travel the world.

Finances

If you're like most people, you've got some financial goals! To use a manifestation technique in this part of your life, you'll need to think about specific financial situations.

A goal like how much money to save, specific salaries, and other money-related ideas will help you know what you want.

You can start by looking at your finances and then using what you find out to decide on the next step. Perhaps you'll choose to get out of debt, save up for a home, or finally buy the car you've always wanted. That's manifestation when you make a financial plan while also believing and setting your mind on that goal.

Health

You can use methods of manifestation to aid in good health. There are many ways to do this, but it's essential to think about being as healthy as possible and then use action to get yourself there. Techniques like exercise, good eating habits, and good mental health should be prioritized.

Career

Advancing in a career is important to many of us. Define your goals regarding employment and business. Once you know what you want, you can achieve it with manifestation by using the skills mentioned below. Then work towards those goals as you believe they'll happen by reading, networking, and learning new skills.

Wellness

Your health isn't just about how you feel physically, although that's important, too. It's about wellness. Wellness helps you to live a balanced life. To do that, you need to find out what enables you to be your best, which can be done through different manifestation methods.

Relationships

Relationships - like family, friends, and significant others - need attention and support to grow. You want to have great relationships, and often this means being mindful and focused about time spent together and habitually thinking of others.

Manifestation helps with this by changing your mindset and helping you keep your focus on what you want for those relationships.

17 of the best manifestation methods

There are many ways to manifest what you want for your life. But these are the absolute best manifestation techniques you can try to improve and create the life you desire.

1. Pray for help

One of the first things that many people turn to in order to improve their lives and ask for help is prayer. Prayer is about communication and is considered a spiritual practice.

There are many ways to pray, including writing, meditation, and out loud. You can pray to ask for support and receive guidance.

2. Journal for motivation

Journaling can get your thoughts out in the open on paper and help you process feelings, but it can also aid in manifestation. A journal can help you explain and detail the things you want to happen in your life.

Your dreams and goals should be included in as much detail as possible. Writing things down like your ambitions increases the likelihood of attaining them. That is why journaling is one of the best manifestation techniques!

3. Set goals

How will you be able to manifest incredible things into your life without any real goals? Setting those goals will help you know exactly what you want, and you'll see when you've attained it.

You can make goals for your finances, health, career, family, and more. Do your best to get those goals in front of you via notecards, a journal, or a vision board, and make it possible to accomplish them.

4. Meditate

Meditating is just thinking about something in a focused way and being mindful. To meditate, you can concentrate on a specific thought, goal, or thing you'd like to achieve.

This is a great manifestation technique because it directly allows you to think about something you desire and create a mindset that helps you get there.

5. Get organized

Being organized probably sounds like it has nothing to do with the best manifestation methods. But organization and sticking to a routine can help you stay focused enough to manifest the things you want in your life. Plus, it brings in action. Believing in something is good, but doing something about it is equally important.

6. Positive words

So, if you want something good to happen in your life, think positively and speak positive words. This is especially true when discussing the goals you want to manifest in your life.

Phrases like "I can't" or "it won't happen for me" should not be part of your vocabulary. Instead, use phrases like, "I know I can do it because.." or "this goal will happen because I believe it and am working hard for it." Practicing positive affirmations is one of the best manifestation techniques to try!

Also, if you're a student or a mom, be sure to check out our posts on positive affirmations for students and for toddlers!

7. Visualize your dream life

Visualization is a manifestation technique that can help you truly see what you want in life. To visualize, go somewhere quiet and envision your ideal life.

What are you doing? What career do you have, where do you live, and what happens in your daily life? Use this visualization to think about what you want until it becomes real.

8. Read for inspiration

Reading expands your mind and helps you learn about topics you didn't know before. To help manifest something, you need to find books related to the subject.

For example, if you are using methods of manifestation to believe that you'll become a great chef, go check out cookbooks and read things written by famous chefs. Become as knowledgeable as you can in the areas you want to grow.

And there are even more great effects from reading. Rebecca Joy Stanborough of Healthline explains that the benefits of reading include more empathy, less stress, and a stronger brain, among other things.

9. Attain a positive mindset

Your mindset is everything. A positive mindset will help you soar to new heights by aiding in the belief that you can and allowing you to make choices from a place of confidence. A negative mindset will do the opposite.

Of all the different manifestation methods, this is one of the best. No matter what comes your way, believe you'll be successful, and you'll see the opportunities and find ways to achieve amazing things. 

10. Take action

So, action and positive thinking go hand in hand for manifestation. It's a widespread belief that you can get what you want by thinking about it.

We believe that's just one part of the equation. You also need to really go after what you want. Success is much more likely when you know what you can achieve and take steps to get there.

11. Create a vision board

This will visually remind you of your goals and what you want out of life. To try out this method of manifestation, you can create either a physical or digital vision board.

Apps like Pinterest allow you to find images and add them to a board, so you can make one that reflects your goals.

You can also make a board out of a poster board and add words and photos to represent what you want to achieve. You can include topics like education, work promotions, and more.

12. Practice gratitude

One of the easiest of the different manifestation methods, being thankful, makes you more aware of what you already have and opens your eyes to current opportunities. Begin being grateful for your family, friends, job, and life.

You might notice things you hadn't previously, plus it will put you in a positive frame of mind. So give our "30 Days Of Gratitude Challenge" a try to get started!

13. Write a letter to future you

Write yourself a letter about your future. Include in it what your daily life looks like in that future time, as well as what type of career you have, how much money you earn, and other details. Date this letter to a time in the future, months or years depending on your goals, and use this as inspiration to continue.

14. Talk with others about goals

There's nothing like telling someone else what you want to accomplish that will make you really want to win. Social pressure isn't always a bad thing, and in this case, it might make you work harder. Tell someone you trust about your financial, career, or life goals, and then update them on your progress as you work.

15. See your goals as your future, not just dreams

Your goals will remain just dreams in your imagination if you don't make an effort to pursue them. One of the best manifestation techniques is seeing your goals as part of your future - something specific- instead of just an idea.

You are sure to get closer to the life you want when you view it as inevitable, and something you are positive will happen.

16. Be specific

Do you know what can really make your goals feel real and attainable? Being extremely specific. For example, don't just say you want a pay raise and a great wardrobe. Think in these terms: "I want to make $20,000 more annually by the end of the year.

I also want to feel confident with my clothes and wear the colors and styles that look best on me. I'll be leading a team by the end of the year, and I'll have a larger office with a great view of the city and an espresso machine."

Do you see the difference? One is a wish, one is a very specific plan. Once things become more straightforward, it's a lot easier to iron out the details and turn them into something possible to achieve.

17. Be flexible

Even though you may know precisely what you want and be willing to work for it, life happens. Many things could change, including your goals. Be open to modifying them based on what is better for you and your loved ones.

Just because you wanted to achieve something years ago doesn't mean it has to be exactly the same now, and that's totally fine!

These are the best manifestation methods that will help you change your life!

These are the best manifestation methods we've found to help you level up your life and start crushing all your goals. They require positive belief and action, and you can begin using them immediately.

So start with just a few different manifestation methods, one of them being goal setting, and begin your journey towards your best life!

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How To Develop Attitudes Of Mindfulness! We All Need To! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/attitudes-of-mindfulness/ Tue, 12 Oct 2021 09:21:00 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=14549 […]

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Attitudes of mindfulness

As defined by the Oxford Learner's dictionary, mindfulness is “a mental state achieved by concentrating on the present moment, while calmly accepting the feelings and thoughts that come to you.” It is an action that seems so simple but is yet so hard for many. But just like anything, the more you strive to have attitudes of mindfulness, the easier it becomes.

Keep in mind, when it comes to mindfulness, it is a “practice” so you’re not expected to get it perfect from the start. That said, let get into why having attitudes of mindfulness are so important and how to get started with cultivating those attitudes!

Why having attitudes of mindfulness can be challenging to some

Mindfulness can be challenging for some of us because society has forced us to be productive.  If we’re not actively doing something, based on the view of society, we may think we are lazy and unproductive. As a result, it can be hard to take time for ourselves and just “be.”  

It can also be hard because we live in a sometimes judgemental society. There is this impression that you have to wear the right clothes to fit in, make a certain amount of money, and have all the best material things. Society at large doesn’t seem to honor attitudes of mindfulness, so it often gets left by the wayside.

Benefits of having a mindful attitude

That said, people who practice mindfulness daily find themselves being kinder, calmer, and more patient. Mindfulness can also help you be more playful, enjoy others, and sleep better at night.

It improves mental health, physical health, and overall well-being. Having general attitudes of mindfulness can also help you deal with daily challenges and struggles we all face from time to time.

Core attitudes of mindfulness

When people ask about the core attitudes of mindfulness, certain characteristics come to mind. These are the universal core attitudes of mindfulness that we all need and can strive to work on every day!

Being non-judgmental (Top on the core list of attitudes of mindfulness)

It is human nature for us to judge, whether that is judging something as good or bad. However, it takes a lot of energy to judge every experience and encounter you have. Therefore, while practicing mindfulness, focus on letting go of the automatic judgments.

As humans, we aren’t perfect.  It’s so easy to judge - even if you don’t mean to!  We’ve all done it.  If you start making a judgment, try to counteract it with a positive thought. Try to find something good about the person or situation and shift your mindset. It's all about practicing non-judgment to cultivate a peaceful mind.

Being accepting

One important factor of mindfulness is to be accepting of outside situations and of yourself. Look at any negative thoughts or judgment as a temporary state,  then let them go or accept them.  Although acceptance can be challenging at first, it can be freeing once you do it!

Having patience

Patience is the ability to accept delay, trouble, or suffering without overreacting or getting upset. We usually do not notice the patient people in everyday life, but we always notice the impatient ones.

Think about the drivers rushing to get to work, the mom becoming agitated with her kids at the store, or the person annoyed with their co-workers. There are so many instances in everyday life that you can practice patience. Practicing patience by reframing a situation and accepting it can help create an attitude of mindfulness.

Trusting yourself

Trust is an important part of mindfulness. As mentioned before, becoming mindful is hard for many, and you have to trust yourself and the process. Trusting yourself and your ability to engage in mindfulness will help bring about acceptance, patience, and clarity.

Looking at things with fresh eyes

This essentially means that you go into a subject with a fresh mindset and with an attitude of openness, eagerness, and lack of predisposed judgment. When you look at things with fresh eyes, you can have more positive connections with others, be more creative, and be more open to possibilities.

Letting go

Letting go is at the heart of mindfulness. When we can trust ourselves and let go of our judgmental thoughts, negative emotions, opinions, and beliefs, then we can truly be mindfully living. It's easy to let the past hold us back, but letting go is a part of growth.

Not trying to every control situation

By creating an attitude of not trying to control every situation, you are able to let go of any expected outcomes and just allowing things to fall as they will without an agenda. You also won't be forced to act based on your past experiences.

Part of this process is not focusing on the end result but on the process instead. Focus on the moment to moment and allow yourself to accept things as they are.

Being grateful and generous

Feeling grateful for your surroundings can create a sense of being alive. Gratitude and generosity go hand-in-hand because when we feel gratitude, we are more likely to be generous and want to share and give to others. Being aware and having mindfulness is a great way to foster more gratitude and generosity. Check out our 30 day gratitude challenge!

6 Exercises you can use to develop attitudes of mindfulness

It can take time to learn how to be mindful. So here are a few exercises to help you get started!

1. Meditate

Practicing meditation can help you attain a mindful attitude. This is because mindfulness and meditation go hand in hand. Meditation involves using specific exercises to become aware of your body and environment. And mindfulness ties in because you are more aware of sensations, your emotions, and your thoughts when you meditate.

2. Take time for yourself

Whether you're a mom or simply a busy woman, it's essential to take some time out for yourself. Block out a spot in your day dedicated to just you and do something you enjoy. You could take up a hobby or simply take time out and do nothing.

3. Observe the moment

Take in all the senses of your surroundings: sight, smell, taste, sound, and touch. It could be by sitting outside and listening to the birds or simply enjoying a cup of tea in silence. Ditch your phone, stay in the moment and be present. Being in the moment is definitely another way to build a mindful attitude.

4. Incoporate breathing to help develop your attitudes of mindfulness

Mindful breathing is one of the best exercises to practice attitudes of mindfulness. Mindful breathing exercises can reduce anxiety, negativity and may even provide pain relief. There are many different types of breathing techniques that can help you achieve a state of mindfulness.

5. Redirect your thoughts

It’s super easy for our thoughts to get carried away. I know that sometimes I replay the same thought in my head again and again. But this replaying of thoughts in your mind isn’t always beneficial. So, if this happens, practice redirecting your thoughts to the present moment and your surroundings.

6. Keep a gratitude journal to attain a mindful attitude

Sometimes things don’t really hit home until you see them in black and white. This is why keeping a gratitude journal can help you achieve a mindful attitude. When you list what you’re thankful for, your blessings suddenly become crystal clear. Try these journal prompts to get started!

Tips for incorporating attitudes of mindfulness in your daily routine

As you see, there are many benefits to practicing attitudes of mindfulness. As with any new routine, start small and work on finding ways to incorporate these new habits into your life. Here are a few tips to help you get started!

1. Check in with your body

Check in with your body throughout the day. Think about sensations you may be feeling mentally and physically. Bring your attention away from negative feelings and realign your attention to the present. Implementing breathing techniques is a great way to check in and help bring you back to the present.

2. Practice active listening (One of the most important attitudes of mindfulness)

When holding a conversation with others, give your full attention to what others are saying. Don't get distracted by phone notifications, and turn off the television so you can have a meaningful conversation. Don't forget to practice listening to yourself too!

3. Observe your surroundings

Throughout the day, whether you are at work or on a stroll outside, take a few minutes to stop what you are doing and observe your surroundings.

Think about some of the core attitudes of mindfulness: letting go of judgment, having acceptance of the things you can’t change, and being patient. Remember to take note of the small things like what you see, smell, hear taste, and touch.

4. Practice patience throughout the day

You can practice patience at work, at home, and even while driving. When you find yourself getting worked up, take a moment to assess the situation and consider your options.

Being patient is one of the best ways you can experience mindfulness. And, when you can be mindful of your situation, you can likely change it, so you are less stressed.

Start practicing these attitudes of mindfulness for a more fulfilling life!

When you practice mindfulness and adopt these attitudes of mindfulness, you’ll benefit in many ways.  You’ll improve your well-being, develop greater connections with others, and you’ll be generally more grateful and generous.

Furthermore, when you can trust yourself and let go of judgment, accept outside situations, practice patience, and have a fresh mindset about ideas, then you can better manage your daily life and find more peace in life.

You can learn how to be more mindful of your finances with our completely free courses and worksheets! You will learn how to create a budget, save money, curb your spending, and much more! Also, be sure to check out the Clever Girls Know podcast and YouTube channel for key financial tips!

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Feeling Lost In Life? 10 Steps For Remembering Who You Are https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/feeling-lost-in-life-remembering-who-you-are/ Mon, 11 Oct 2021 00:21:12 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=14605 […]

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Feeling lost in life

Life can throw curveballs that will leave us feeling lost. During these difficult times, it’s important to remember who you are. Major life changes like a relationship ending, entering into adulthood, new environments, losing a job, and even death can cause you to lose yourself. In those moments when you’re feeling lost in life, it’s important to remember that you’re not alone.

Everyone goes through periods of confusion and a lack of direction in life. It’s how you handle these moments that count. So, no matter what life changes you’ve endured, there are steps that you can take to get back to remembering who you are.

10 Steps to finding yourself when you're feeling lost in life

We all have lost ourselves a little bit along the way. But with these steps, you can get back to your true authentic self.

1. Identify where you are now

A part of figuring out how to get back to yourself is knowing where you are now. How are you feeling at this moment? What has changed about your life? What areas of your life seem unclear? Write these emotions and thoughts down.

Being able to articulate your feelings is important for two reasons. First, it allows you to pinpoint the areas of your life where you need clarity. Secondly, it will help you communicate those feelings to others who can help you on your journey.

Articulating emotions can be difficult for some people. Perhaps you don’t feel like you have the words to express them.

In this instance, leverage self-awareness journal prompts or even the wheel of emotions to put your feelings into words. Journaling is a key step in self-discovery when you are feeling lost in life.

2. Take a trip down memory lane

What do you do when you’ve lost something? You retrace your steps in hopes of finding it. It’s no different when you’re trying to find yourself again. Sometimes you just have to take a trip down memory lane to find reminders of who you truly are.

Go to familiar places that you once went to and even look at old pictures! Do things that will help you spark your memory to a time of happiness and clarity.

Identify how these moments brought you joy, peace, and clarity, and reintroduce them into your life. These memories will pave the way to remembering who you are.

3. Talk to loved ones when you're feeling lost in life

Others can often see things in us that we don’t see in ourselves. So when you’re feeling lost in life, it’s important to get another perspective from someone you trust. These people can remind you of who you are and affirm your identity.

These should be people that you’re comfortable being vulnerable with. After all, you have to share that you’re feeling lost and not like yourself. Allow them to support you and help you get back to yourself.

4. Recite affirmations

Words play a very powerful role in our lives. What you say about yourself or a situation will shape your beliefs and, ultimately, your behavior. That’s why it is so important to speak positively.

One way to do that is by reciting affirmations. Affirmations are positive phrases that are often contrary to what you may be feeling or experiencing. For example, if you are sick, an affirmation that you may adopt is, “I am in great health and my body is well.”

Your brain will believe whatever you tell it, so tell it something positive. Try reciting these morning affirmations to change your life.

5. Step away from social media and other influences

Sometimes feeling lost in life comes from comparison. We see what others are doing and think that we aren’t on the right path.

Social media can further perpetuate this comparison and thwart your perception—causing you to feel inadequate and to desire things that you don’t truly want. That’s why it's so important to take a break from these negative influences.

This means disconnecting from social media and any other influence that makes you feel inadequate. Once you’re away from distractions, you can think more clearly and feel more confident about your life.

6. Get on a routine

When there are lots of changes in your life, having a routine will bring the consistency that you need. A routine also helps you feel more in control of your life and less lost or overwhelmed.

Consider adopting a new routine that helps take away the overwhelm in your life. Or, if you’ve neglected one that worked in the past, get back to it!

Be sure to include all of the things that keep you feeling like yourself. Whether that’s working out, meditating, or even self-care practices. Either way, consistency is the key. Once you have a routine, remember to stick to it.

7. Do things that make you happy

Feeling lost in life can be a result of not doing things for yourself. When you’re constantly doing things for others, it's easy to lose yourself in helping them. This can be especially true for moms and other caretakers.

It’s important that you take time to do things for yourself that make you happy. Make the time to show yourself love and refuel. This is important for both your mental and physical health.

Short on ideas? You can check out these ideas for pampering yourself on a budget.

8. Get the support you need

Sometimes you may need help getting back to yourself. Getting the support and help that you need is completely okay. This can be in the form of a counselor, therapist, or trusted advisor.

These people can keep you encouraged and advise you on how to get out of your emotional rut. Though talking to loved ones can be beneficial, professionals are trained to help you work through these situations in a productive and non-judgmental way.

9. Document your journey

After you’ve written down where you started, continue to document your journey. When we’re in the middle of tough situations, it’s often hard to see the progress that we’re making.

Writing down your wins and the steps that you’re taking allows you to actually see how far you’ve come. You’ll be able to look back on your journey and celebrate your growth and success.

10. Be patient with yourself and give yourself grace

We’ve all found ourselves lost at some point. The reality is that life doesn’t have a roadmap, and it can be challenging.

That’s why you should give yourself the grace and patience to grow out of your situation. It’s ok if you don’t figure things out today or even tomorrow. Just be proud of the effort and progress that you’re making.

Lastly, remember to be gentle with yourself and your journey. You aren’t the only one who has gone through this, which means that it won’t be this way forever.

Remembering who you are when you’re feeling lost in life

Remembering who you are when your life doesn’t seem to be together can be hard. We’ve all gone through times when we’ve felt overwhelmed or unsure of what to do. In moments like those, the best thing that you can do is to keep going.

You can find yourself again, so don’t get discouraged. Remember that life is a journey. Embrace the ambiguity of it all. Part of finding yourself and figuring out what you want in life is setting goals.

Learn how to set the right financial goals with our completely free course! Tune in to the Clever Girl Finance YouTube channel, and Clever Girls Know podcast for support and tips on all things money and more!

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Get Out Of Your Comfort Zone! 35 Comfort Zone Challenges https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/comfort-zone-challenges/ Tue, 05 Oct 2021 09:49:06 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=14493 Looking for some good comfort zone challenges to try? I rounded up a list of my 35 favorite ideas to help you grow. Check them out now!

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Comfort zone challenges

Life begins at the end of your comfort zone. And what better way to get out of your bubble than by participating in some comfort zone challenges?! I’ll be the first to tell you that I love a good routine!

I’d do the same thing over and over again every day if I could. BUT… I know that’s not where real growth happens. You have to put yourself in awkward situations and let go of the fear of failure if you really want to reach your dreams.

So here’s a closer look at why you should leave your comfort zone, along with 35 comfort zone challenges to help you do it.

Why are comfort zone challenges important?

Leaving your comfort zone is oh-so-important for a couple of reasons. First, it helps you develop a growth mindset where you’re not afraid of trying new things. You don’t fear failure because you know it’s necessary for growth.

A second benefit of leaving your comfort zone is that it helps you build resilience. You learn to grow and thrive when exposed to new things instead of buckling under pressure.

Lastly, stepping outside of your comfort zone opens the doors to new opportunities. It allows you to grow into the fullest version of yourself — one where you’re confident in your creative, intellectual, and social abilities.

But why is leaving your comfort zone so dang hard?

Your comfort zone has some pretty sweet perks, which is why it’s so difficult to get out of it. You feel in control when you’re in your comfort zone. Your stress is low. There’s no anxiety. It’s comfortable.

But too much comfort can backfire. Your productivity can tank. And you can begin to feel unfilled by your life and out of touch with your dreams. It takes courage to step outside of your comfort zone.

But once you start to do it, it actually gets easier. Neuroplasticity research shows that once you expose yourself to new stimuli and environments, new pathways begin to open up in your brain. In other words, you begin to achieve a growth mindset.

35 Comfort zone challenges to get you out of your comfort zone

So I’ve rounded up a list of my 35 favorite comfort zone challenges. Read through the list now and write down all the ones you want to try first. Once you begin to step out of your comfort zone and see how much it improves your life, you may just try them all!

1. Have a photoshoot out in public

There’s something bold and empowering about taking photos in public — especially professional ones. However, you may feel all nervous and timid at first. (I mean, do you really want all that attention on you?)

But then something magical happens. You get dressed up in your fanciest outfit (hello, gorgeous!). You strike some fierce poses even Tyra Banks would be jealous of, and pretty soon, you're oozing confidence left and right!

2. Hit up your local karaoke bar and flex those pipes!

The idea of leaving your comfort zone by singing karaoke may seem wacky, but it’s a low-stakes way to boost your self-esteem. You may be really nervous at first and think things like:

“I can’t believe I’m doing this!... Gosh, is this really what I sound like?... Please let this song end soon.” But once you exit the stage, your anxiety melts away, and your comfort zone gets a little bit bigger. Singing is also good for your health! As if you needed another reason to flex your pipes!

3. Reconnect with an old friend

Who’s that one friend you haven’t spoken to in years but constantly think about? It could be someone from high school, college, or an old job. Breaking this radio silence can be a great way to step outside of your comfort zone.

You don’t have to do anything grand. Send them a simple text saying it's been a while and they were on your mind.

4. Give your honest feedback on something you don't like — no matter how badly you want to lie

Okay, if you’re anything like me, you don’t like confrontation. But there can be something really empowering about giving your honest feedback on something — even if you’d rather lie and take the easy way out.

So the next time a coworker asks for your advice on a project. Don’t just say, “Yeah, it looks good.” Give constructive feedback on how they can improve it. You can also try it with your friends and family!

5. Start a conversation with a stranger

It takes a lot of courage to strike up a conversation with a stranger in public — especially when everyone’s eyeballs are glued to their phones 90% of the time.

Next time you’re out and about — whether it be at the grocery store, at a coffee shop, or at the park — try striking up a conversation with someone and see how it goes!

6. Ask your crush out on a date

Who’s that little cutie pie you can’t stop daydreaming about? Get out of your comfort zone by asking them out on a date —  even if you think they’re way out of your league! (They’re probably not.) You could also check out our list of date-night ideas beforehand so you have plenty of great ideas for your date!

7. Go somewhere you’ve never been before

Everything gets shaken up when you visit a new place for the first time because you have to figure out where to go, what to eat, what to do. Nothing is familiar.

So give this comfort zone challenge a try by visiting a nearby city or flying to a new state or country. There are tons of budget-friendly vacations you can try!

8. Sign up for a digital course and learn something new

Mastering a new skill boosts your confidence and reminds you that you have the power to bring about change in your life. And depending on what skill you learn, it can also make you a more marketable employee. This could also give you an edge when asking for a raise!

So, what’s one thing you’ve always wanted to try but haven’t? You could sign up for a public speaking class, learn a musical instrument, or even take a free personal finance course through Clever Girl Finance!

9. Go one full day without wearing makeup (in public)

Decades of advertising have led us to believe that our natural skin is flawed. You may think that you can’t go out in public without a face full of makeup. But guess what?! You’re beautiful just the way you are!

Ditch the makeup for a day and let your natural beauty shine. If you are self-conscious about your skin, then try out our minimal makeup guide and our minimalist skin-care routine to get a natural glow!

10. Volunteer someplace new to break through your comfort zone

Volunteering isn’t just good for the community it's also good for your health and personal development. Studies show it also reduces your stress and anxiety, boosts your self-esteem, and increases your happiness. Plus, it gets you out of your comfort zone!

11. Turn your phone off for an entire day

There’s nothing that screams “comfort zone challenge” quite like turning your phone off for the day because we tend to check it more than we think. No text messages, phone calls, or apps. Just you and the great wide world. So give it a go and see what you think!

12. Don’t watch TV for an entire day

Ooh, la la. Can you imagine a day with no TV? Take all the time you’d spend in front of the telly and use it to try something new! Since the average American spends over 3 hours a day watching television (ouch), this is an excellent way to make time for better things like a new hobby!

13. Cut out all technology for a day (one of my favorite comfort zone challenges)

Whoa, now it’s getting intense. This is one of my favorite comfort zone challenges because it requires you to unplug from ALL technology.

I’m talking no phone, TV, or computer. Pass the time by reading books, playing board games, coloring, baking, writing, going for a walk, whatever!

14. Drive a new route to work or the grocery store

Do you usually take the same old route each time you go to work or head to the grocery store? Change it up by going a different way (even if it adds a few extra minutes to your ETA.) You just might enjoy the new scenery.

15. Navigate somewhere without your phone’s GPS

Do you think you could drive to a new place without your phone’s GPS? For this comfort zone challenge, you focus on using road signs for directions.

And if all else fails, you do what your grandparents did and ask for directions. Either way, you’re leaving your comfort zone with this one.

16. Spend the day by yourself

Research shows that making time to be by yourself doesn’t hurt your social life — it can actually improve it. Spending time alone can spark creativity, build your mental strength, and help you get to know yourself better.

So give it a go! Take yourself on a date. Dine in at a new restaurant (don’t just get your food to go and eat it in the car). Visit some shops. Go to the movies. Spend some quality time with Y-O-U.

17. Paint your nails a fun vibrant color

Some comfort zone challenges are very practical, but this one is all about fun! Step outside of your comfort zone by trying a vibrant nail color you'd usually be too shy to wear.

Do you usually go for neutrals? Go bold with a tomato red, a rich brown, or olive green. Rock those nails like there's no tomorrow!

18. Get a fun hairstyle that's out of your comfort zone

This is another one of those fun comfort zone challenges. If there's a hairstyle, you've always wanted to try but haven't, just go for it!

Dye your hair that funky color. Get some fun braids. Go all-natural and let your curls flow freely. Get a pixie cut. Shave it off. You do you, girlfriend.

19. Put together a bold outfit from your closet and wear it with pride!

That Fuschia pink top with those dark teal pants?! How bold… But seriously, wearing an outfit combination you’ve never thought of before is a great way to get outside of your comfort zone. It's also a fantastic way to upcycle your wardrobe and put a fresh spin on your look!

20. Let your inner child roam free for the day

Choose an entire day where you do all the things you used to love as a kid. Go to the zoo, buy one of those adult coloring books, do some fingerpainting. The sky’s the limit! So check out our post on experience gifts for kids for ideas and do them yourself!

21. Have a “yes” day with your family for a fun comfort zone challenge

This is a good one if you have kids. Say “yes” to everything they ask, but set some ground rules beforehand (i.e., it can’t cost more than $100, it has to be in the city, it can’t be illegal, etc.). See what fun transpires!

22. Learn a new dance routine and record yourself doing it

Choose your favorite dance from TikTok or Instagram and teach it yourself. Bonus points for recording the full thing once you’ve memorized it! (We want to see it!) Dancing is fun and also great exercise!

23. Ask for a discount next time you go into a store

Next time you’re in Old Navy or at a coffee shop or wherever, ask the cashier if they have any discounts. You might just be surprised at what they can make happen for you to help you save some cash. And if all else fails and they say no, it's still a good lesson in speaking up for yourself.

You can also ask if they have any coupons they can use for you too. Stores like Kohl's will sometimes have extra ones they can scan so you can save some cash!

24. Open up to a close friend about something you’re struggling with right now

It takes a lot of courage and vulnerability to open up about something negative going on in your life. Choose someone you can trust, then step outside of your comfort zone by sharing it with them. Confiding in someone you trust is actually healthy, and can help you find the strength to keep going.

25. Try a new recipe that’s way out of your comfort zone

Do you usually make the same meals week in and week out? Expand your comfort zone (and your food palate) by picking out a new recipe you’d typically never try.  We have a ton of delicious frugal meals that you will love!

26. Visit a restaurant that serves a type of food you’ve never had before

Never had Indian food? Look up a restaurant in your area! Never been to a fancy restaurant with a seven-course tasting menu? Give it a go!

Trying new foods at new restaurants is a double-whammy when it comes to leaving your comfort zone. You can enjoy luxury dining experiences even on a budget!

27. Go one full day without caffeine

Where are my coffee lovers at?! Or maybe you’re more of a tea or soda gal instead. Whatever it is, see if you can go one full day without any caffeine at all. Want to break your caffeine dependency altogether? Extend it to a week!

28. Sleep on the opposite side of the bed

So if you have a bed buddy, then one of you probably always sleeps on the right side of the bed while the other sleeps on the left.

And no matter where you sleep — whether it's at home, a hotel, or a friend’s house — you feel like something’s totally off if you’re not on “your” side.

Why not get out of your comfort zone by switching sides? Who knows maybe you will both get better rest by simply trying out something different.

29. Switch up your morning routine for a comfort zone challenge

Throw a little bit of spice into your morning routine by mixing things up. So if you typically shower in the morning, try doing it at night.

If you typically read before bed, do it before work. See what happens! You can also incorporate some ideas from your morning routine

30. Reach out to someone you’ve wronged and apologize

It takes a lot of courage to admit to someone that you were wrong because let's face it, none of us like making mistakes.

So if you’ve got a person or two weighing on your mind, making amends with them could be one of the best comfort zone challenges you try. Perhaps you could mend an old friendship and have a fresh start.

31. Send someone you love a care package just because

Who’s a random person in your life who could benefit from a care package or handwritten note? Even if you think they’ll think it’s awkward, send it to them anyway just to let them know you care.

It's so amazing when someone surprises you and lets you know that you're thinking of them. No matter how big or small the gesture is, it's sure to brighten their day.

32. Sign up for an adrenaline-inducing adventure for a classic comfort zone challenge

When you think of comfort zone challenges, you probably think of adrenaline-inducing adventures like skydiving, parasailing, and zip-lining. Why not give it a try?!

You could even start small and try something like indoor skydiving and go from there. Who knows you may be a thrill-seeker and not even know it!

33. Outsource a task that takes up a huge chuck of your time

If you’re a perfectionist, the thought of outsourcing a task to someone else can seem mortifying. But imagine how much more free time and mental energy you’d have if you asked for help? Let go of the idea that you have to do everything yourself, and give this comfort zone challenge a try.

34. Tackle one of your biggest fears

What’s one fear that's holding you back in life? Are you afraid of failing? Or maybe you're scared of success? Whatever it is, spend a day strategizing ways you can face and overcome it. Then, tackle some of those adventures!

35. Do something you’ve been putting off forever

This could be downloading a budgeting tool, learning how to invest, or ramping up a side-hustle. Whatever it is, step outside of your comfort zone by committing to do it today.

Procrastination is self-sabotaging to everything from your finances to your health. However, you can overcome it and accomplish anything you put your mind to!

Bonus: 30-day comfort zone challenge idea

Okay, I’ve got an idea for you. You know how 30-day challenges are all the rage right now? What if you chose 30 of your favorite items from the list above and combined them into one supercharged, super awesome 30-day comfort zone challenge?!

It takes 28 days on average to make a habit, so this can be a great way to make some permanent changes to your life. Besides, just imagine all the self-growth you'd experience if you challenge yourself every day for one month…

Which of these comfort zone challenges will you try first?

Even if you don’t do the full 30-day comfort zone challenge, I hope you at least choose a few comfort zone challenges from this list to try out this week.

And if you’re looking for some challenges specific to saving money, check out our free Savings Challenge Bundle. It has six individual challenges to help you stay motivated and focused on saving money.

Also, tune in to the Clever Girl Knows podcast and YouTube channel for inspiration to achieve all your big goals!

The post Get Out Of Your Comfort Zone! 35 Comfort Zone Challenges appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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40 Positive Affirmations For Students https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/positive-affirmations-for-students/ Fri, 01 Oct 2021 12:26:50 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=14360 […]

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Positive affirmations for students

Did you know a student’s mind can be their biggest bully? If you are constantly putting yourself down, you should know you are not alone because many students struggle with negative self-talk. However, the problem with this unhealthy habit is that whatever you say in your head (your conscious), your subconscious starts to believe. But can positive affirmations for students really help improve their mindset?

Well, since the mind believes what it's told, let's dive a little deeper into how positive affirmations for students can help, along with our amazing list of affirmations for you to get started!

Why are positive affirmations for students a good idea?

Positive affirmations can help students improve their mindsets and feel better. As a result, they'll carry themselves with more confidence and believe they can do anything. Remember, your subconscious follows whatever your conscious says. In fact, studies show that people that practice affirmations actually increase the neural pathways in their brain!

So, if you tell yourself you can do hard things, you are good at school, you're good with money, or you will succeed on your test, you’re more likely to make it happen. However, if a student tells themself that they're not smart enough to take a class or not good enough to go out with a group of friends, they'll start to believe it.

This is a major problem because when students overthink things or constantly talk down to themselves, they can easily begin to feel anxious or depressed. Some even try to take care of it by doing self-harm. Your subconscious can’t help but react to what your conscience believes. This proves the mind is a powerful thing!

That's why positive affirmations for students should be part of your daily routine. You will feed your mind positive thoughts rather than negative ones.(By the way be sure to check out our article on advice for students as it relates to life, money, and more!)

When should you do your affirmations?

So, when and where should you do your affirmations? You can do your positive affirmations any time of the day and anywhere you please! However, sometimes it can help to practice them several times a day or before a specific task.

For example, if you have a big exam coming up, you can practice some positive self-talk beforehand to help you master your task! Others find that practicing their affirmations in the morning sets up their entire day differently because it starts them off with a positive mindset.

All in all, the results can be the same. The important thing is that you do them regularly so you can condition your mind to become more positive, which will help you take action. Another tip for this exercise is to say your affirmations out loud because our brains create "memory pathways" when you do!

List of 40 positive affirmations for students

So are you ready to change your mindset and start being more kind to yourself? Here are 40 affirmations specifically for students to get started with working toward a better mindset!

Positive affirmations for students studying for an exam

Exams can be super stressful and can cause you to have anxiety. So if studying for an exam has you questioning your intelligence or doubting your abilities, then try these positive affirmations before you study and during to help you ace your next test.

1. I can do this.

2. I will master this material.

3. My challenges help me grow.

4. It’s okay not to know everything.

5. I believe in myself and my abilities.

6. Today is going to be my day.

7. I start with a positive mindset.

8. I am in control of my progress.

9. I will succeed in life.

10. I am capable.

Positive affirmations for students balancing a busy schedule

Trying to balance school, work, and your social life can get overwhelming, but you can totally take control of your life. So, try these positive affirmations to help you balance your schedule and feel good about yourself.

11. I am becoming the best version of myself.

12. I am thriving.

13. I create a healthy balance in my life.

14. I am a leader.

15. I believe in my goals and dreams.

16. I can get through everything.

17. I am proud of myself.

18. My confidence grows when I step outside of my comfort zone.

19. I am building my future.

20. I can change the world.

Positive affirmations for students struggling at school

If you’re struggling in school, it’s easy to be down on yourself and lack confidence. Don't let that negativity creep into your mind. Instead, try these positive affirmations to get you through even the toughest times in school.

21. I am doing my best.

22. I am learning.

23. I will not give up.

24. I am enough.

25. I improve every single day.

26. I will do better next time.

27. I will get back up again.

28. I am smart.

29. I will win at what I put my mind to.

30. I push through when things get tough.

Positive affirmations for students getting ready to graduate

You should be super proud of yourself for being self-disciplined and sticking with your goal of graduating! However, it's easy to feel overwhelmed with the next chapter in life, so here are some fantastic affirmations to help you prepare!

31. I will find a great job.

32. I am excited to step into a new world.

33. Anything is possible.

34. I will continue to expand my mind.

35. My future is bright.

36. I am on the path to success.

37. I am worthy to receive.

38. I am courageous.

39. Nothing can stop me from living the life of my dreams.

40. I am thankful for all that I have.

Change your mindset with these affirmations!

So I hope these 40 positive affirmations for students help you through your tough days. Also, don’t let school get you down because even if you have a bad day, it doesn’t mean the rest of your school career will be bad.

Focus on how you talk to yourself and definitely try being nicer to yourself so you can enjoy the time you have left in school and shape yourself into a happy and well-adjusted adult.

You can also start working on transforming your money mindset with our completely free "Build a solid foundation" bundle! Don't forget to check out the Clever Girls Know podcast and YouTube channel for encouraging advice on all things money!

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Changing Your Perception Of Money https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/changing-your-perception-of-money/ Wed, 28 Jul 2021 17:54:12 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=12881 […]

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Changing your perception

Money can come with lots of negative connotations. But you get to choose how you perceive earning, spending, saving, and investing your cash. If you feel negative about your finances, you can make a change! Changing your perception of money to a positive mindset can help you attain financial success.

But before we get into how to change your perception, let's cover why you should first.

Why you should want to change your perception of money

When you change your perception of money, it can open up opportunities for you and help you be better with your finances. Maybe you feel you’re not earning your full potential at work or in your business. Maybe you’re in a rut of racking up debt and overspending without a clear way out.

Or maybe you just want to improve your ability to communicate your money needs and wants to a partner, your family, or a friend group. Regardless, if you’re fed up with how you feel when it comes to money habits, changing your perception is how you reach your goals.

How changing your perception about money can change your life

A simple (although not necessarily easy) shift when it comes to money management is to change your perspective. Perception often creates reality or at least influences it. Changing your perception of money gives you more control over your daily decisions and future life.

If you feel empowered to charge your worth, save toward your goals, and spend in a way that feels good to you, you’ll be on the path toward success and happiness. Putting yourself in a positive frame of mind allows you to see more opportunities and be ready to act on them. Basically, you’ll be able to attract what you want and repel everything you don’t.

8 Steps for changing your perception of money

Money influences much of our daily life, which can be positive or negative. However, you have the power to make it a positive experience, all you have to do is change your perception. So, here's how to change your perception of money and work towards financial success!

1. Be willing to change

It's true changing your perception can be challenging, but like anything else, it's about taking baby steps. One way to get started is to look for patterns of past successes....and shortcomings. You can also reflect on your current money mindset and any past experiences that have led you here.

Our childhoods can have a big effect on the way we view money in adulthood. After some introspection, keep what moves you forward and release anything that doesn’t. Have an open mind about changing your view and habits. A willing attitude is how to change your perception for the better!

2. Decide you’re in charge

Take matters into your own hands! Ask for that raise, start that side hustle, and pay down that crushing debt. Get started investing and have your money work for you! There’s so much you can do with your money.

Even when you acknowledge there are elements that are outside your total control, remind yourself that you’re able to control how you react to situations as they arise and how you prepare for the unexpected and inevitable.

3. Visualize the future you want

A big step in changing your perception is visualizing the future you want. Sit quietly and reflect. Draw what you see. Journal how you feel. Talk it out with someone close to you. Getting a vision of the future makes it that much more of a reality.

One of the best ways to help you visualize the life you want is to create a vision board. A vision board is a collage of pictures, quotes, and goals you want to achieve. It will motivate you to work towards your vision and accomplish anything you desire!

4. Get clear on your goals

Once you have your vision, define how you’re going to get there. Your financial goals can be lofty. They can stretch you. Just make sure you’re not setting yourself up for failure. Try setting smaller milestones or layering one attainable goal on top of another.

Use the SMART goal method to make your goals specific, measurable, achievable, relevant, and time-bound. Break big goals down into smaller goals to make them easier to achieve!

5. Gather all your resources

You have so much to offer the world—and your future self! Think about your skills, savings, assets, and personal network—practice gratitude for all that you have. Then get creative about how you can leverage everything in your arsenal.

For instance, use your skills to earn more income or tap into your network for career opportunities. Changing your perception and using your resources can help you improve your financial situation.

6. Believe in yourself

Be your biggest fan. Root for yourself like you’d cheer on your best friend. Belief is one of the biggest factors in perception, so the more you believe in yourself, the closer you are to making your vision a reality.

An excellent way to change your perception and start believing in yourself is to practice positive affirmations. In fact, studies show that practicing positive affirmations daily can increase your neural pathways!

So instead of saying to yourself, "I'll never have enough money," say, "I have an abundance of money!" You'd be surprised at how much your affirmations will lead you to actions.

7. Hold yourself accountable

Learn how to hold yourself accountable to following through on all your plans. Maybe writing it down is enough to keep you on track. Maybe you’ll do best if you recruit an accountability partner. Sometimes having someone to answer to helps us hold ourselves more accountable.

Find whatever method works for you so that you keep your eye on the prize. Don't forget to reward yourself when you follow through with your plans and goals so you will be more motivated to stick with them too!

8. Don’t settle

You deserve the best—whatever you define “the best” to be. It’s not about keeping up with the Joneses or following social media trends. Instead, you should be striving for exactly what you want.

Never give up on your dreams no matter how big they are because when you change your perception and believe in yourself, you won't settle for anything less.

Start changing your perception of money to succeed financially

Ultimately, changing your perception of money comes down to choosing happiness rather than resistance. We all need money to survive and to work our way toward our dreams.

So use these steps to start changing your perception of money so you can be financially successful. Take it a step further and enroll in our free financial courses and worksheets so you can learn how to save more money and build real wealth!

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How To Rewrite Your Money Story https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/money-story/ Tue, 27 Jul 2021 15:42:29 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=12856 […]

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Money Story

As a child, were you told that “money doesn’t grow on trees”? How about “money is the root of all evil”? Or maybe, as a teenager, you internalized the refrain, “mo’ money, mo’ problems.” Seemingly harmless phrases like these actually contribute to your current money story, and, for many of us, that’s not a good thing.

In fact, all of the information that you gathered since you were a child through adulthood contributes to making up your money mindset. Otherwise known as your money story. Not everyone’s story is negative, but many of us have internalized negative beliefs about money that, no matter how hard we work or save or invest, inhibit our financial lives.

That’s why it’s time to learn about yours, so you can change your journey and rewrite your financial future!

What does a money story mean?

Understanding your money story is fundamental to understanding why you make certain financial decisions. Once you know your story, you can change it and your relationship with money. So what is a money story? Your money story is your personal belief and narrative about money.

Money stories form during childhood from all of the influences surrounding you. Things like expressing words from your parents or caregivers, actions you observed in others, and feelings you picked up on (like a stressful home environment every payday) all contribute to your story.

Nobody chooses their money story – it starts during childhood. In fact, children can grasp basic money concepts by age 3! Even though you can’t choose your money story growing up, the good news is, that you can change it.

Why is knowing your money story so important?

Your money story affects everything you do in life. Money is involved in decisions about how much mortgage you can take on, what kind of clothes you buy, what type of job you take, and basically every choice you make in life. That means your money story is involved in all of these things, too.

For example, if you grew up in a household where money was tight, and your parents stressed over there never being enough, you probably have a story rooted in scarcity. This might cause you to save instead of spend, which might sound like a good thing, but it isn’t always.

If you are too fearful of ever spending money, even when you have enough, you might miss out on opportunities and joy in life that money can buy.

Knowing your money story is the first key to changing your financial life. Once you know you have a scarcity mindset, for example, then you can work to change it. Rather than worrying there isn’t enough try changing your perspective and focus on abundance instead.

This new money story – one of abundance instead of lack – will open up new options. It will show you that you do have control over your finances and that there are ways to afford a house, get paid what you deserve, and more.

What is your money story?

Before you can change anything, you have to understand your money story. Remember, your story was formed throughout your childhood, so your childhood is where you should start.

Think back to when you were growing up and write down any key money memories from childhood. Did your parents often fight over money? Did your father spend lavishly but had to hide his purchases from your mother? Not all money memories are bad, but they all influence your story.

Next, write down all of the things you tell yourself about money. Do you find yourself repeating things like, “nobody in my family is rich,” “I’m not good with money,” or “wanting money is selfish”? These are all clues to your money story.

Lastly, write down your answers to these questions, which will prompt your internal beliefs about money:

  1. What did your parents teach you about money?
  2. What didn’t your parents teach you about money?
  3. Were there discussions about money in your household?
  4. What do you remember about how your parents spoke to each other about money?
  5. How did you feel when you spent money as a child? When your family spent money?
  6. Did you have more or less money than your peers?

Once you’ve compiled your list, you’ll have a good picture of what your money story is and you can then move on to rewriting that story.

Tangible steps to take to rewrite your money story

Now that you know your money story and where it came from, it’s time to rewrite it. Don’t let other people’s words, actions, and behaviors affect your money for the rest of your life. Instead, follow these steps to change your relationship with money and take charge of your financial future!

1. Forgive yourself for past mistakes

We all make mistakes, but some of us are harder on ourselves than others. Forgiving yourself for past financial mistakes, even if they are affecting you now (like taking on a too-large student loan burden or racking up credit card debt), is key to improving your finances going forward.

And now that you understand the concept of a money story and how little control over it you have since it was formed during your childhood, perhaps it will be easier to forgive yourself for past financial mistakes.

Only once you’ve forgiven yourself can you let go of the past and open yourself up to new ideas and a new future.

2. Review your values

When you give up your old money story, you will need to replace it with a new one. A good place to start is with your personal core values.

Whether you consciously know them or not, your personal core values are your core beliefs that guide all of your decisions. When you become attuned to your personal core values, you will be in a better position to decide what you truly want your money story to be.

Let’s say you have a value of security. This is something to consider when building your new story. You’ll want your story to incorporate the high value you place on security. So, perhaps, your story could be that you believe that you have enough money to support your family and provide them with all of the resources they need to thrive.

3. Educate yourself to gain money confidence

Rewriting your money story means throwing out the old beliefs you have about money. Maybe you believe that you have to work hard to get rich. Sure, working hard has its benefits, but it’s not the only way to get rich. Have you educated yourself about personal finance and investing yet?

If not, now is the time to do so. Take one of Clever Girl Finance’s free courses on investing or pick up a copy of “Learn How Investing Works: Grow Your Money.” After educating yourself and gaining confidence, you’ll be in a better position to rewrite your money story.

You’ll go from believing that you have to work yourself to death to get rich to realizing that money flows to you with ease (so long as you understand the stock market!).

4. Commit to change

Lastly, rewriting your money story takes a commitment to change. You have to change your mindset and your actions in order to toss out your old beliefs and replace them with something new. Put your new money story into practice by thinking about it every time you make a decision or purchase.

Are you coming at this from the old viewpoint (for example, that money is there to be spent)? Or are you coming at it from your new viewpoint (that money is there to be spent as needed, but also to be saved)? Repeat your new affirmations every morning.

Write them down on post-it notes that you scatter throughout your house and car. Whatever it takes and whatever works for you, just make sure you frequently repeat your new money story to yourself. Be sure to check out our list of best books about money mindset.

You’re ready for a new money story

Identifying and then rewriting your money story is one of the most powerful changes you can make to your financial life. Once you uncover the deep-rooted beliefs you have about money, you’ll probably discover that there are many of them that you don’t want to hold on to.

Outside influences formed your story. But you can set those beliefs free and uncover a new money story – one that’s aligned with who you are today and where you want to go in the future.

The post How To Rewrite Your Money Story appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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Don’t Give Up On Your Dreams! 8 Reasons Why! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/dont-give-up-on-your-dreams/ Mon, 19 Jul 2021 16:10:25 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=12679 […]

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Dont give up on your dreams

When you were younger, what did you dream of doing or having? Was it to live in a home that had a movie theater? Or was it more career-driven, such as being a teacher? I'm a firm believer that it's never too late to see your dreams become a reality. No matter your age, it's essential that you don't give up on your dreams.

Whether you lack the motivation or think your time has run out, we've come up with a few reasons why it's not too late to start.

8 Reasons why you should never give up your dreams

You still can live your best life if you don't give up on your dreams! Here are 8 reasons why you should never give up on your dreams.

1. Your dreams are going to take time and that's ok

I'm obsessed with Daymond John, the creator of FUBU. His dream was to have a successful clothing line, but it took a long time to get there. He was left with little money or time between operating a rideshare and working at Red Lobster.

But he knew that you should never give up on your dreams. He decided to operate a clothing business out of his mom's basement at night. With no money for marketing, he worked with friends to strategically place FUBU.

After LL Cool J wore a FUBU hat in a GAP ad, his business took off. However, it took him several years of hard work to get to that point. If you accomplished your dreams overnight, they wouldn't mean as much as they would if they took time.

2. You CAN learn from failure

Never give up your dreams because you've failed. It's taken a long time to admit this, especially to myself, but you CAN learn from failure. Failure allows you to learn from your mistakes and then take a different approach towards your dream. If you can't take it from me, take it from our friend Oprah Winfrey.

Oprah became not only the youngest reporter in Nashville history but was also the first black female reporter to co-host a news program. She seemed well on her way to success, only to be fired. Oprah could have let this one experience define her career in television but decided to try a different route instead.

She signed on for AM Chicago, and the rest is now history. She is a prime example of why you don't give up on your dreams!

3. Don't give up on dreams because you think you're "too old"

You're mistaken if you think accomplishing your dreams has an expiration date. Many successful people do not reach the pinnacle of success until well after age 40. He's one of the most successful actors of all time now, but Samuel L. Jackson did not get his first role that wasn't more than five seconds until he was 41.

Vera Wang didn't pick up a sketch pad until age 40. And Jeff Bezos, one of the richest men of all time, did not start Amazon in his garage until age 31. The point is, never give up your dreams because dreams have no age limit.

4. Someone is waiting for you to share your gifts

Out there in the world, someone is waiting for you to share your extraordinary gifts. You're an individual, and you might not believe it, but there is no one in the world exactly like you. Someone out there needs your individual touch to help them move on to the next step in their journey.

It could be how you explain a concept, the way you listen, or just your presence, but people are waiting for you. Could you imagine if one of your idols would have given up? The world simply wouldn't be the same! This is why you should never give up on your dreams either. So, find your passion and share it with the world!

5. Setting an example encourages others

One of the best days of my life was walking across the stage at my college graduation to receive my bachelor's degree. I was almost 31 when I achieved this goal, but I knew I couldn't stop once I went back to school at age 29. I had to both work and go to school full time.

There were some sleepless nights, lost relationships, and a lot of tears, but I knew I had a ton of eyes watching me like a hawk to see if they could do it too. See, I was coordinating a life skills program at a title one school, and I had over 50 students watching me the entire time.

I wanted them to know that if I could do it, they could do it too. I'm happy to share that I'm still in touch with a lot of my previous students and continue to serve as a mentor.

6. Working towards your dreams can build healthy habits

A great example of how to not give up on your dreams is to observe athletes. Not only do they get up early to work out and train, but they also ensure they have a balanced diet and get enough sleep. Accomplishing their dreams takes the habit of self-discipline. Author James Clear says that habits are the "compound interest of self-development."

By building a set of healthy habits, you'll be in a place to accomplish your dreams. It may not be the act of working out every day, but it could be the habit of saving money or spending less time on social media. Both of these habits can help create significant results later down the road.

7. Deciding that saying no to yourself is not an option

There are many times in life where you can and will want to say no to yourself. Having an extra cookie or spending money you don't have is a good reason to say no to yourself. But when it comes to your dreams, saying no is not an option.

We're already discussing that someone out there is waiting for your talents, but the main person waiting for you to shine is… you. You are the number one person who will benefit from achieving your dreams, so why not say yes? Why not write that book or start that cupcake bakery?

You're not stuck with a dream forever, but you will be stuck with the "what if's" should you decide not to allow yourself to shine.

8. It's going to feel good to prove to yourself (and your haters) you got this

Because I'm a late bloomer, I've felt behind when compared to many of my peers. When I would pitch a topic to speak about for a conference or ask to get involved with a project, I was often told no or, even worse, ignored. People didn't believe in my vision or me.

It's hard to never give up your dreams if they are crashing all around you. I knew my worth even if others didn't, and my competitive nature was determined to make my dream a reality. By trying a different approach (just like Oprah!)I achieved success.

I initially did it for myself, but I'm not going to lie; proving to everyone that I could do it, with or without them, has built my self-confidence up to a level I've never known.

A national column, making travel plans that include my own assistant, and being on a national board are all things that came to fruition after I decided not to give up on myself. So, take it from me, you should never give up your dreams!

Don't give up on your dreams because you can achieve them!

We all get discouraged, and that's okay, but you mustn't let that stop you from accomplishing your innermost desires! It doesn't matter how many times you fall down; it matters how many times you get back up. And focusing on your mindset can really help when it comes to picking yourself back up.

Remember that you should never give up on your dreams just because you have been delayed. Will it be hard? Sure. Will it take time? Absolutely. It's worth it. No matter how big your dreams are, you can do it!

The post Don’t Give Up On Your Dreams! 8 Reasons Why! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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28 Richest Man in Babylon Quotes to Change Your Life https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/richest-man-in-babylon-quotes-to-change-your-life/ Mon, 05 Jul 2021 12:48:33 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=12399 […]

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Richest man in Babylon quotes

When you’re seeking personal finance advice, you might not immediately think of turning to the ancient Babylonians for it. But as the book The Richest Man in Babylon illustrates so well, there’s a lot to be learned from history and the timeless wisdom of the ancients!

Published in 1926, the book uses parable-style tales of Babylonian merchants, tradesmen, and herdsmen to illustrate important financial concepts. It’s a fun, quick read, uniquely written with plenty of “thees” and “thous” in the prose of the original edition (the most recent one uses more modern language).

Looking for some bite-sized The Richest Man in Babylon lessons and don’t have time for the entire 150 pages right now? Below, I’ll highlight some amazing Richest Man in Babylon quotes (including some epic budgeting quotes) you can apply to your finances and growth journey today.

You’ll walk away having learned seven basic financial principles that helped the Babylonians build one of the wealthiest kingdoms in history.

The Richest Man in Babylon PDF & Audio (Free!)

If the Richest Man in Babylon quotes below end up inspiring you to read the whole book, you can do it for free!

  1. On Soundcloud: Free Richest Man in Babylon audiobook
  2. On YouTube: Free Richest Man in Babylon audiobook video
  3. Audiobook on Audible (free with trial or members’ free book credit)

I can personally attest that the audiobook version is great to listen to on a road trip!

The best quotes from the Richest Man in Babylon

Now, let’s take a look at some of the best Richest Man in Babylon quotes. Swap out some of the “a man” phrases and “he” pronouns in the book, and clever girls will find themselves well on their way to becoming the “richest woman in Babylon!”

The Richest Man in Babylon quotes on earning money

  1. "In tilling the soil, in honest trading, in all of man's occupations, there is opportunity to make a profit upon his efforts and his transactions. Perhaps not all the time will he be rewarded because sometimes his judgment may be faulty and other times the winds and the weather may defeat his efforts. Yet, if he persists, he may usually expect to realize his profit.”
  2. “The more of wisdom we know, the more we may earn. That man who seeks to learn more of his craft shall be richly rewarded. If he is an artisan, he may seek to learn the methods and the tools of those most skillful in the same line. If he laboreth at the law or at healing, he may consult and exchange knowledge with others of his calling. (And) If he be a merchant, he may continually seek better goods that can be purchased at lower prices.”
  3. “Good luck can be enticed by accepting opportunity.”

The Richest Man in Babylon quotes on saving and budgeting

  1. “I found the road to wealth when I decided that a part of all I earned was mine to keep. It should be not less than a tenth, no matter how little you earn. It can be as much more as you can afford. Pay yourself first.”
  1. Budget thy expenses that thou mayest have coins to pay for thy necessities, to pay for thy enjoyments, and to gratify thy worthwhile desires without spending more than nine-tenths of thy earnings.”
  1. “Study thoughtfully thy accustomed habits of living. Herein may be most often found certain accepted expenses that may wisely be reduced or eliminated.”

The Richest Man in Babylon quotes on investing

  1. “Wealth, like a tree, grows from a tiny seed. The first copper you save is the seed from which your tree of wealth shall grow. The sooner you plant that seed the sooner shall the tree grow. And the more faithfully you nourish and water that tree with consistent savings, the sooner may you bask in contentment beneath its shade.'
  1. The first sound principle of investment is security for thy principal. Is it wise to be intrigued by larger earnings when thy principal may be lost? I say not. The penalty of risk is probable loss. Study carefully, before parting with thy treasure, each assurance that it may be safely reclaimed. Be not misled by thine own romantic desires to make wealth rapidly.”
  1. “Consult with wise men. Secure their advice of those experienced in the profitable handling of gold. Let their wisdom protect thy treasure from unsafe investments.”
  1. “A man's wealth is not in the coins he carries in his purse; it is the income he buildeth, the golden stream that continually floweth into his purse and keepeth it always bulging. That is what every man desireth. That is what thou, each one of thee desireth; an income that continueth to come whether thou work or travel.”
  1. "Gold, indeed, is a willing worker. It is ever eager to multiply when opportunity presents itself. To every man who hath a store of gold set by, opportunity comes for its most profitable use. As the years pass, it multiplies itself in surprising fashion."
  1. “Usurious rates of return are deceitful sirens that sing but to lure the unwary upon the rocks of loss and remorse.”

The Richest Man in Babylon quotes on debt

  1. “Youth, never having had experience, cannot realize that hopeless debt is like a deep pit into which one may descend quickly and where one may struggle vainly for many days. It is a pit of sorrow and regrets where the brightness of the sun is overcast and night is made unhappy by restless sleeping.”
  1. “Yet, I do not discourage borrowing gold. I encourage it. I recommend it if it be for a wise purpose.”
  1. A man must pay his debts with all the promptness within his power, not purchasing that for which he is unable to pay.”

The Richest Man in Babylon quotes on real estate

  1. “Thus come many blessings to the man who owneth his own house. And greatly will it reduce his cost of living, making available more of his earnings for pleasures and the gratification of his desires.”
  1. “There are diverse ways by which a man may provide with safety for his future. A man may buy houses or lands for this purpose. If wisely chosen as to their usefulness and value in the future, they are permanent in their value and their earnings or their sale will provide well for his purpose.”

Quotes on planning for retirement

  1. “Ensure an income for thy future. Look thou at the aged and forget not that in the days to come thou also will be numbered among them. Therefore invest thy treasure with greatest caution that it be not lost.”
  1. “It behooves a man to make preparation for a suitable income in the days to come when he is no longer young.”
  1. “Provide in advance for the needs of thy growing age and the protection of thy family.”

The Richest Man in Babylon quotes on charity

  1. “[A man] must have compassion upon those who are injured and smitten by misfortune and aid them within reasonable limits. He must do deeds of thoughtfulness to those dear to him.”
  1. “If you desire to help thy friend, do so in a way that will not bring thy friend's burdens upon thyself.”

Quotes on personal development and self-discipline

  1. “Cultivate thy own powers to study and become wiser, to become more skillful to so act as to respect thyself.”
  1. “Advice is one thing that is freely given away, but watch that you take only what is worth having.”
  1. “Our acts can be no wiser than our thoughts, Our thinking can be no wiser than our understanding.”
  1. “Better a little caution than a great regret.”
  1. “Remember, work well done does good to the man who does it. It makes him a better man.”
  1. “Preceding accomplishment must be desire. Thy desires must be strong and definite.”

Leverage these quotes to change your life!

The Richest Man in Babylon’s lessons are simple yet timeless and if implemented, will change your life!

If you’re looking for more specific guidance on how to implement these lessons from The Richest Man in Babylon, you’re on the right website!

Find ideas to make money, learn how to build a budget, get out of debt, start “growing your gold” with investments, and more. Be sure to check out our 30+ completely free courses too!

We also go into more detail about this book in our Richest Man in Babylon summary!

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How To Become 1% Better Every Day (A Step-By-Step Guide) https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/become-1-better-every-day/ Mon, 05 Jul 2021 11:37:33 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=12390 […]

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1% Better every day

Do you want to know the real secret to accomplishing all those lofty goals you daydream about? Ya know, those goals like paying off your debt, saving $1 million, starting your own business, or traveling the world full-time?

The secret is consistency.

It’s not winning the lottery or making some earth-shattering change in the way you live your life. It’s about taking one small action every single day that moves you one step closer to where you want to be. This concept is called continuous improvement — and it’s all about focusing on becoming 1% better every day.

What Hollywood teaches us about becoming 1% better

We see the idea of becoming “1% better” played out all the time in Hollywood — especially in movie montages. 

You know what I’m talking about…

We see Rocky Balboa running through the streets of Philadelphia, punching meat in a cooler until he’s the best boxer around. We see Mulan climbing a wooden pole, shooting arrows, and running buckets of water up a mountain until she’s the best soldier in the army. Then there's the Karate Kid waxing on and waxing off until he annihilates all the bullies at school.

It usually takes the main characters months (or years) to accomplish their goals, but Hollywood speeds through these scenes in a matter of minutes because they're kind of boring to watch.

But truthfully, these montages are where the magic happens. They’re where the main character focuses on getting 1% better every day until time fast forwards and they’re mega-successful. It’s where they learn to master the mundane.

What does it mean to be 1% better?

Becoming 1% better every day means focusing on the one tiny action you can take today to get one step closer to where you want to be tomorrow. It means sticking with these tiny actions, day in and day out (even when you don’t feel like they’re working) because you know they’ll compound into something significant.

Instead of focusing on a huge, overarching goal that seems impossible to reach, you focus on your everyday habits instead. You save a few bucks toward your rainy day fund here, pay a little extra on your credit cards there, and go for a short walk there until all those tiny actions add up.

This process isn’t sexy, nor is it newsworthy. But it works and it also helps to improve your self discipline. It's all about making every single day count.

The life-changing magic of getting 1% better everyday

Getting 1% better is really hard to quantify in the beginning. You start by being 1% better at something today than you were yesterday. Then, tomorrow, you’re up to 2%. By the next day, you’re up to 3%. One week later, you’re at 7%. It's not much, but it compounds into something substantial over time.

Here's some math to show what I mean.

Following the rules of compound interest, if you focus on becoming 1% better every day, at the end of one year, you’d be approximately 37.78 times better than you were before (1.01365=37.78).

That's 37 times better at managing your finances, running that side hustle, asking for that raise, or any other goal you're trying to reach.

Pretty powerful, right?

What does becoming 1% better everyday look like?

Here are some examples of what becoming 1% better every day may look like for your finances, your health, and your overall life as you build your ideal day.

For your finances

For your health

  • Going out to eat one less time than you did last week
  • Exercising 30 minutes a day
  • Eating a little less processed sugar than you did last week
  • Drinking a little more water
  • Getting a good night’s sleep (at least 7 to 8 hours)

For your life and overall productivity

How to become 1% better everyday

Now that you have some examples of what becoming 1% better every day looks like, let’s talk about how you can start implementing this practice into your own life.

1. Define what “better” means for you

“Better” looks different for everyone. My idea of “better” is to be financially independent, to own a thriving business where I have the freedom to work when and where I want, to hike 15 miles in a single day without feeling like I’m going to die from soreness the next week, and to have a close circle of friends I can laugh and grow with.

What does “better” look like for you? Take a moment to do some goal setting. Dream about your ideal life by answering these questions:

  • How much money do you have in the bank?
  • Where do you work?
  • How do you spend your free time?
  • How do you feel?

2. Examine your old habits

Once you’ve defined what “better” means for you, it’s time to examine your habits to figure out what’s working and what’s not.

Remember, getting 1% better is mundane. It requires you to take small actions every day that are really easy to do, BUT are also really easy not to do.

For example, putting $20 in savings is easy to do. But it’s also easy to spend an extra $20 at the store. Reading 10 pages of a personal finance book every morning is easy to do. But it’s also easy to fill that time with a TV show.

Setting aside five minutes to journal about what you’re grateful for is easy to do. But it’s also easy to spend that time on Instagram.

Examine your habits and pinpoint which tiny tweaks you can make to move the needle toward your goals.

3. Be patient and trust the process!

As you begin focusing on getting 1% better every day, you may not feel like you’re making any real progress. One day you’ll be super excited about working toward your goals — whether that’s paying off debt or learning a second language. And the next day you may wake up and say, “What’s even the point?”

But the key to becoming 1% better relies on you sticking with those tiny actions even when you don’t feel like doing them. It relies on you trusting that your actions are quietly gaining momentum and that success is bubbling right beneath the surface. 

Remember, magic happens in the mundane

The beautiful thing about achieving success is that you don’t get there by trying twice as hard or making some sweeping change in your life. You just focus on being 1% better today than you were yesterday.

In terms of your finances, that may look like working on your money mindset, setting some financial goals, and finding an accountability partner who can motivate you along the way.

In just a year’s time, you’ll be 37 times more knowledgeable, 37 times more financially secure, and 37 times closer to your dream life than you were before! How about that?

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How To Appreciate The Little Things In Life Regardless Of Your Finances https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/how-to-appreciate-the-little-things-in-life/ Thu, 01 Jul 2021 12:48:32 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=12309 […]

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Appreciate the little things

How often do you overlook the good things in life because you’re always searching for something more? Do you always feel like you don’t have enough or you aren't good enough? If so, it’s time to learn how to appreciate the little things in life.

The things that make up everyday happiness will lead to much more personal and financial peace when you accept it. Also, learning to be thankful for what you have can keep you from filling the need for more with things you don't really need or want.

What does appreciate the little things mean?

How often do you find yourself looking for the "big things" in life? You know, the things or events that knock our socks off and make others notice us?

We are all guilty of focusing on these things. Of course, we want the things that will make a difference in our lives, but all the while, we're overlooking the good stuff - no matter how small that goes on in our lives. By focusing on the big picture and forgetting to appreciate the little things, we let too much energy pass us.

When we have an appreciation for life, we appreciate everything - the sun rising and shining on our face, the flowers growing in our yard, the smiling face of our spouse or kids, or the sound of your mom's voice on the other end of the phone. These are truly the best things in life!

These may not seem like life-shattering or life-changing things to care about, but they make all the difference in the world because they are in front of our faces much more often than big things.

Why it's essential to have an appreciation for life

Without an appreciation for life, you'll always feel lacking. Think about the difference between feeling full of energy and happy and feeling stuck and always wanting. Which one feels better?

It's when you have an appreciation for life that you feel great. You aren't always looking for the next big thing. Instead, you're able to celebrate everything that's right in front of you every single day.

It doesn't mean you have to appreciate every moment - life happens, and it's not always good, but when you can appreciate the little things in life, the big (bad) things won't seem so devastating because you know that you're surrounded by so much good.

How to appreciate the little things in life (Regardless of your finances)

Now here's the trick - knowing how to appreciate the little things in life no matter how much money you have (or don't have). Use these tips to be grateful for what you have in your life.

1. Spend time with loved ones

Experience cannot replace things, and life is short. Spending time with loved ones is one of the best ways to appreciate the little things in life. If your parents are still here with you - spend time with them.

If you have siblings, relatives, or good friends - see them or at least talk to them as much as you can. You don't have to spend a bunch of money to have fun with each other either! Relish the memories you make every time you get together, and let them create your core memories.

You'll need those memories someday as life can change in the blink of an eye. So appreciate every moment and enjoy your loved ones no matter what you're doing (whether big or small); time together is always time to make memories.

2. Go through old memories

If you're good about taking pictures or videos, go through them and let yourself remember the good times. Remember the times you had together, the things you did, and the laughs you had.

If you are the type that keeps your old keepsakes, go through them and think about how they made you feel. Sometimes bringing yourself back to the 'good times can help you appreciate the little things in life.

3. Celebrate your financial wins no matter how small

Remember when you were a kid, and you played a sport that you may not have been very good at? No matter what happened, though, your parents likely celebrated you going out there and giving it a whirl, right?

The same is true today of your financial journey. Even if you saved $5 at the grocery store, every win is a win. If you found new ways to be frugal, you saved enough money to reach a short-term goal, or you stocked your emergency fund with enough cash - celebrate it.

Suppose you're just at the starting point of attempting to reach a goal, set small milestones, and then celebrate them. For example, you want to save $1,000 for a new piece of furniture, and you have nothing saved yet. So when you hit $250 - celebrate your ability to be ¼ of the way to your financial goal.

4. Keep a gratitude journal each day

Keeping a gratitude journal is a great way to start or end your day with a smile. A gratitude journal helps you pull the good out of each day, even if the day felt like a wash. When you take a few minutes to sit down and think about the good that happened, it's suddenly easier to appreciate the little things in life.

The things you are grateful for can be as small as a hot cup of coffee in the morning, a smile on your child's face, or making all the green lights on the way to work.

They don't have to be anything that costs money or were earth-shattering - they are just the things you are grateful for that happened and added up to make your day that much more special.

You can keep a gratitude journal in the morning or night. If you're a morning person, do it in the morning as a part of your wakeup routine or if you need help sleeping at night, do it at night as a part of your bedtime routine and give you something to smile about before going to bed.

Be sure to check out our 30 days of gratitude challenge!

5. Create a visual board

So, although it's important to make a vision board that will motivate you to achieve your goals, it's just as important to make a board for the things you are thankful for! Creating a board of all your favorite things will make it easy to have an appreciation for life! When something good happens, document it and put it on your board.

Keep pictures of your famous family and friends, your pets, your house, and anything else that puts a smile on your face. Put the board somewhere that you see it often, primarily upon waking and going to sleep. Let it serve as a reminder of all the riches you have in your life, whether financial or not. This is a great way to appreciate every moment you truly treasure.

6. Slow down and be present

Stop rushing through life. Focus on what's going on right in front of you, no matter how small. This is how you appreciate every moment that counts. For example, you're walking the dog. Focus on the smell of the fresh air, the happy wag in your dog's tail, and the excitement of seeing friends and neighbors walking around you.

Notice your children as they enter the room, laugh when they laugh, and look into your partner's eyes when they walk into the room. Relish in the moment of being in everyone's presence and stop focusing on what you do or don't have.

You might also consider living on less so you can focus more on the more meaningful things in your life. When you appreciate the little things in life, you'll have many more reasons to smile.

Learn to appreciate the little things

It's essential to learn to appreciate the little things in life. It will help you live a happier life and allow you to be much more grateful for the 'big things that happen too. When you're focused on what's going on right in front of you, life doesn't feel as stressful or mundane.

Instead, you realize how much you have to be grateful for, and you'll enjoy every step it takes to reach your goals, financial or otherwise.

The post How To Appreciate The Little Things In Life Regardless Of Your Finances appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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Stuck In The Past? It’s Holding Your Finances Back! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/stuck-in-the-past/ Tue, 27 Apr 2021 01:38:03 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=11472 […]

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Stuck in the past

It’s easy to reminisce on what might have been. However, for some, staying stuck in the past might actually be keeping you from creating your ideal future. While this might mean clinging to old relationships or versions of yourself that no longer exist, it’s also particularly true when it comes to your finances.

Are you ready to let go of your old money habits and start creating new patterns that better serve your life? Let's talk about why letting go will help you move forward and just how to do it.

Do your money habits have you stuck in the past?

It’s easy to get used to old habits that might have served us well at one point in our lives. But your relationship with money changes throughout your life. Goals alter, new priorities pop up. And, with any luck and hard work, the amount of money you’ll make later in your career will grow.

Unfortunately, it’s easy to stay stuck in the same mindset about money. Maybe you use an outdated or time-consuming budgeting process. Or maybe you’re focused on financial goals that don’t align with your new reality.

Whatever the causes, staying stuck in the past can impact your financial well-being.

Let’s look at how you might be holding yourself back by holding on to these old views. We'll also discuss how to find actionable ways to move forward and close old chapters.

How being stuck in past habits might be impacting your success

Here are a few of the most common signs that your financial habits might be outdated and need to be reviewed.

1. Being stuck in the past is taking up too much of your time

We’ve all heard the phrase “time is money” and while it might be a little bit cliche, it’s actually true. Successful individuals know how much their time is worth. They might even have an idea of how much they should be making per hour. Maybe you spent three hours every night watching TV when you were in college, but does that make sense for your life now? Maybe one of those hours could be spent preparing for the next day. Or perhaps even reading to brush up on a new skill that will make you money later.

You might even have outdated financial habits that are taking up too much of your time. Maybe you budget, but the way you budget takes up hours of your week. Automating some of your budgeting habits can streamline the way you think about money. This in turn can free up time for other productive tasks.

2. Your past habits are keeping savings goals low

If you have savings goals set and are actively working towards them, you may think you’re on the right track. And while you should be applauded for continuously setting and reaching your financial goals, it’s worth considering if they’re too short-term or low. Maybe you’re saving to pay down small debt payments. But do you have a plan to repay student loans, save for a home down payment, or grow your emergency savings?

For instance, do you have a retirement savings plan? And if you do, when was the last time you revisited your contributions or calculated what your savings will look like in 20 years? It’s easy not to think about retirement too closely when you’re in your 20s, but as you approach your 30s, 40s, and 50s, retirement becomes a much more important financial goal. And the truth is, most of us aren't on track with retirement savings.

If you don't have savings goals, you may need to look for ways to boost your income. It's also a good idea to curb non-essential spending and start building savings. Reviewing your budget and cutting expenses where possible can help you find additional money to begin funding savings goals.

Don’t let past thinking prevent you from creating the future you want. Boost your retirement contributions or add retirement savings into your long-term goals as soon as you can. I recommend writing down a few long-term financial goals you’d like to accomplish and then creating a savings plan to make those dreams happen.

3. Staying stuck in the past is costing you money

If you’re a creature of habit like me, you probably have at least one bank account that’s been open for more than a decade. And while it’s great to stick with the same bank if they continue to offer you great service, chances are there are savings rates or free banking options you’re missing out on.

While you don’t have to fully switch banks or jump ship, it’s worth exploring what else is out there. For example, while I stick with the same traditional bank I’ve been using for over ten years as my main bank account, I also have a high yield checking and savings account that I use to keep my freelance income, tax money, and short- and long-term savings goals.

Be sure to also explore budgeting and savings apps, investing and retirement platforms, and other digital financial tools that can help you make the most of your money.

Here’s how to avoid staying stuck in the past

Now that you better understand what might be holding you back, it’s time to pull yourself out of your financial rut by developing new money habits. Here’s how:

1. List any habits you want to change

Identify any habits from above that you want to change. For example, maybe you want to spend less time manually paying bills or work towards loftier savings goals. Whatever they are, compile them into a list or spreadsheet.

2. Attack one challenge at a time

Choose one habit you want to change to focus on. If you spend too much time weekly managing your budget, for example, maybe this is the obstacle that’s the most painful to your life and holding you back. Decide where you want to start before moving on to the next step.

3. Do some reading

Now that you have the one habit you want to focus on first, begin researching ways to improve this habit. Reading books are a great way to learn and stay focused. For example, if you have a budgeting hurdle, you can read about different budgeting methods. This knowledge can help you figure out why your method is taking so long and come up with ideas for reducing your time.

4. Begin practicing new habits

Next, it’s time to begin practicing new habits to replace your old behavior. Take the solutions you found and turn them into actionable next steps by practicing them regularly. This is the most important step and might take a month or two to become routine. Keep in mind that it can take up to 66 days on average to form new habits.

Repeat these steps for every habit you want to change.

5. Stay adaptable

Your money needs are going to change over time, and you might need to adjust your habits again. Stay flexible and revisit your financial processes regularly, so you can determine if there are any changes you should make in the future.

Get ahead by pulling yourself out of the past

It’s easy to get stuck in the past without even realizing it. Holding onto a bank account you opened with your parents might cause you to pay monthly fees that another bank might not charge. Not revisiting your savings goals could prevent you from building up long-term savings.

While there’s no one solution for better managing everyone’s finances, it’s important to take time to reflect on what habits are holding you back so you save time and money now, and stay on track for your future plans.

The post Stuck In The Past? It’s Holding Your Finances Back! appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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50 Morning Affirmations To Change Your Life! https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/morning-affirmations-to-change-your-life/ Mon, 05 Apr 2021 16:48:11 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=11271 […]

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Morning affirmations

No matter what your previous day was like, every day brings a new opportunity to start fresh. One of the best ways you can make every day the best it can be is to practice morning affirmations.

Repeating affirmations daily is a powerful way to change your life over time. Here, we’ll dive into why morning affirmations, in particular, are a game-changer and give you a list of morning affirmations to choose from to get started.

Why morning affirmations are a game-changer

You’ve no doubt heard of affirmations – positive statements we repeat to ourselves in order to bring about positive change. Affirmations can serve as inspiration for change, help you challenge negative beliefs you have about yourself, and even help you find inner strength.

The average person has over 6,000 thoughts per day. Depending on how you’re wired, many of these thoughts are negative. And any type of negativity or lack of self-confidence can seriously impact your life, which is where positive affirmations come into play. They serve to combat any self-doubt or negative thoughts you might have about yourself.

Affirmations work especially well when repeated. When we repeat affirmations, it’s more likely that our words will sink deep into our unconscious, where cognitive neuroscientists estimate that 95% of our brain activity actually takes place.

Think of affirmations as a tool to help you tap into your inner psyche, which is a part of your brain that is constantly active, but often hard to reach. Positive affirmations help you get in touch with, activate, and encourage that part of your brain. They can also help you calm a busy brain.

Affirmations are game-changers because they help program your mind into believing whatever it is you tell it. Let’s say you are not confident in your ability to make decisions.

If you repeat to yourself “I am strong and capable of making decisions,” pretty soon your brain will think that you are strong and capable of making decisions. And soon after that, you’ll act accordingly and start making those decisions. Magic!

Positive affirmations are helpful no matter when you say them, but morning affirmations are especially so. By beginning your day with positivity, you’ll set yourself up for success and adjust your mindset for abundance.

Sure, you can wait until the middle or the end of the day to repeat your affirmations, but why wait? Get your day started on the right foot by reciting your morning affirmations as soon as you wake up.

When to do your morning affirmations

When you do your morning affirmations are up to you. It’s better to say your “morning affirmations” right before bed than not at all if that’s the only time you can remember to say them.

But try to fit some time into your daily routine and recite them before you get lost in the day. Some great places to fit morning affirmations into your routine include:

1. Right after you wake up

You can even do them while you’re still lying in bed! Consider writing your morning affirmations down in a journal on your nightstand, and reach for that before you reach for your phone every morning.

2. When you’re enjoying your morning coffee or tea

You can repeat your morning affirmations aloud as you prepare your coffee, tea, or breakfast. Or, you could sit down and read through them as you enjoy whatever you prepared.

3. During your commute

If you spend time traveling to work, turn off the radio, podcasts, and your phone, and recite your morning affirmations on the subway or in your car as you commute.

If you don’t have a commute anymore, use that time to take a morning walk and listen to a recording of yourself reciting your morning affirmations.

The bottom line is, any time is the right time to do your morning affirmations. It’s whatever works for you, and whenever you will actually take the time to do them. Morning affirmations only take a few minutes to go through, but they can change your whole day (and life).

List of 50 morning affirmations to try out

Whatever area of your life you would like to focus on, there’s an affirmation for you! To get you started, here are some example morning affirmations for motivation, stress, abundance, focus, and gratitude. Whether you choose to concentrate on only one area or a few, it’s up to you.

Oh, and since this is Clever Girl Finance, we can’t forget about financial affirmations. Some of the morning affirmations below (especially the abundance ones), will help with your finances. But if you want something finance-specific, we have a whole post on financial affirmations, which you can check out here.

Morning affirmations for motivation

Need help reaching a goal (financial or otherwise)? Feeling a little “blah” and lacking in motivation? Repeating a morning affirmation or two for motivation can definitely help you with that. Here are some to get you started:

1. I have the tools and abilities I need to succeed at everything I put my mind to.

2. I am unstoppable.

3. I can be and do whatever I want.

4. Any obstacles in my way motivate me to learn and grow.

5. Every day I am getting closer to achieving my goals and dreams.

6. I have the power to achieve anything I desire.

7. I finish what I put my mind to and set aside and let go of whatever does not serve me.

8. I have overcome obstacles before and will overcome whatever is in my way.

9. Not everything is easy, but I will push through and persevere because my goals and dreams are worth it.

10. The hardest part of any journey is taking the first step, and today I will take that step.

Morning affirmations for stress

Whether you’re stressed about your finances, your job, or just life in general, morning affirmations can help here, too. Try out one of these affirmations to calm yourself if you’re feeling particularly stressed out:

1. I feel centered and at peace.

2. I am relaxed and free of stress.

3. I choose how to respond to situations, and I choose to respond from a place of peace.

4. I have overcome stressful situations in the past and will overcome them again.

5. I am equipped to handle stressful situations calmly.

6. There are some things I cannot control or change, and that is OK.

7. As I exhale, stress leaves my body.

8. I have the skills to deal with whatever comes my way.

9. My body and mind are relaxed.

10. I take everything one step at a time.

Morning affirmations for abundance

When we live in a state of lack, we tend to stay stuck there. Try out these morning affirmations for abundance to get yourself out of a scarcity mindset and into one of abundance:

1. Abundance is all around me.

2. I am worthy to receive.

3. I deserve abundance and prosperity in all its forms.

4. My life is overflowing with opportunities.

5. I am a magnet that attracts endless abundance.

6. I am on my way to financial freedom.

7. I see abundance everywhere I look.

8. I am living a life full of abundance.

9. I have an endless supply of ideas and the power to make them come true.

10. I am financially abundant, and money flows to me easily.

Morning affirmations for focus

If you find yourself lacking focus, you’re not alone – many people are feeling that lately. Do you drift from one project to another, unsuccessfully multi-task, or generally just feel scattered? These morning affirmations could be the key to unlocking your focus:

1. I easily maintain my focus on my goals.

2. I stay focused on my goals and get the results I dream of.

3. My mind is clear and focused.

4. I eliminate distractions and get into the flow state naturally.

5. I am alert, attentive, and focused at all times.

6. I stay present and in the moment at all times.

7. I choose what I focus my attention on.

8. My focus is sharp, consistent, and unwavering.

9. I have the focus I need to get things done.

10. Nothing can get in my way or distract me from my goals.

Morning affirmations for gratitude

By focusing on the blessings that you already have, you can open doors to even more abundance. Go ahead and be grateful for and enjoy the life that you have right now, and use these morning affirmations to help you do so:

1. I am grateful to be alive.

2. I am grateful for all of the blessings that I have.

3. I am fortunate to have so many people in my life who love me.

4. I am thankful for the food and clean water I have access to today and every day.

5. I am grateful for all of the wonderful things that have happened in my life, and look forward to many more.

6. Every day there are more and more things to be grateful for.

7. Today is a new chance for more opportunities, more abundance, and more things to be grateful for.

8. I am grateful to everyone who has helped me get to where I am today.

9. I am grateful for what I have and for what is to come.

10. I am grateful for my beautiful, wonderful, rich life.

Choose your morning affirmations and change will come!

There you have it! Fifty morning affirmations to choose from (or to inspire you to create your own). You can repeat your morning affirmations aloud to yourself, stick them on a post-it note on your fridge to read through every day, or save them as your phone’s screensaver so they are the first words you see every time you pick up your phone.

Whatever works for you –  just remember to keep telling yourself your morning affirmations over and over again, and soon enough they might just change your life!

And if you need an extra boost, we've got self-love affirmations, financial affirmations and money saving slogans for you too!

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Scarcity Vs Abundance: Do You Have A Scarcity Mindset? https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/scarcity-mindset/ Sat, 13 Mar 2021 14:10:08 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=11009 […]

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Scarcity mindset

Mindset is so important, especially when it comes to our finances! How you think about money can affect your spending and saving habits. Determining what type of mindset you have can help you work on achieving your goals. In particular, the two big mindsets when it comes to your financial outlook are having a scarcity mindset or having an abundance mindset.

The idea of having a scarcity mindset might sound like it’s great for pushing yourself to save, but in reality, it can have a number of harmful effects on your mental health.

Let’s take a closer look at what it means to have a scarcity mindset as well as how you can transition into a more abundant way of thinking. And in turn, a healthy mindset!

What is a scarcity mindset?

A scarcity mindset is when you view the world as not having enough to go around. In turn, you feel like you never have enough. You might even start asking yourself, “why is this happening to me?”

While scarcity can help you have a hyper-focus on specific goals when it comes to money, it comes at the cost of ignoring all your other goals and needs. You might begin to focus on immediate, urgent needs instead of the bigger picture. This leads to unhappiness and anxiety.

This relates to the poor vs rich mindset. Rich people are wealthy not only in material items but in mental comfort. People stuck with a poor mindset, on the other hand, are trapped in the cycle of feeling like they are facing impossible challenges that have no way out.

The difference between a scarcity vs abundance mindset

The differences between a scarcity vs abundance mindset all come down to how you view the world. It also comes down to how you manage your thoughts.

An abundance mindset is when you have a high level of personal worth and security. You feel like you have enough. Rather than focusing on what you don’t have, you think about the things you already have in front of you.

On the other hand, when you constantly have a scarcity mindset nothing is ever enough and you never have a chance to relax. That’s why we heartily recommend adjusting the way you think– but we’ll go over that more below.

How to determine if you have a scarcity mindset

So, how can you tell if you have a scarcity mentality? If you experience any of these signs, you may be trapped in a scarcity mindset.

1. You’re always worrying about money

Certainly, money is an important concern, but is it all you think about? If you find your financial shortcomings are taking over your life, and you are constantly worrying about money, you may need a reset.

Having negative emotions about your finances can negatively affect your health by causing financial insecurity, anxiety, and fear.

We get it – with the average American $90,460 in debt, it’s easy to always be thinking about money problems. But it’s important for you to try to step outside of this. You can achieve financial abundance.

2. You are always comparing yourself to others

Life is not a board game! You shouldn’t always be trying to one-up your friends or acquaintances. If you feel like you need to keep achieving more and more to keep up, it’s a definite sign of a scarcity mindset.

3. You find it hard to be happy for others

Along the same lines, you should be happy for your friends when they achieve something big like scoring a new job or paying off their house. If your first emotion is jealousy, that means you’re thinking in a scarcity mentality.

4. You feel like you’ve beat everyone else when you have success

Having your own success is great! That said, it shouldn’t be about beating others or getting revenge on people you feel have wronged you in the past. Don’t let these things fuel your attempts at financial freedom.

5. You are negative about why you can’t reach your goals

Those in a scarcity mindset typically have a negative outlook on life. They’ll feel like everything is conspiring against them and nothing will ever change.

It’s not their fault they can’t be successful, but rather, the crooked system. Or the cheating toxic coworker. Or the volatile market. And so on and so on.

6. You overindulge or under indulge frequently

Do you frequently overindulge because you feel like you need something positive in your life? Or maybe you under indulge because you feel like you need to save, save, save. Scarcity is scientifically proven to affect behavior and decision-making, leading to these bad purchasing habits.

So before you settle into that minimalist lifestyle, make sure you’re doing it because it’s the right choice for you, not because you feel desperate to pile up every last penny.

How to overcome a scarcity mindset

How did you do with the above signs? Think you’re stuck in a scarcity mentality? Don’t worry, there’s plenty you can do to change that. Try out some of the steps below to see if they help you become more positive.

1. Think about how much you already have

Your money mindset doesn’t always have to be dismal. Even if you just have a few hundred in savings, that’s better than nothing!

Rather than focusing on how much further you have to go, think about how far you’ve come. Celebrate those little achievements every step of the way.

2. Consider the possibilities in your life

Those in a scarcity mindset tend to focus only on one possibility or outcome. We put so much effort into this one goal that everything else falls by the wayside. Get out of that funk by being more open about the direction your life can head!

You may want to work on this by creating an intentional living practice. With intentional living, you tune in to your goals and values. That way, you’ll make choices not just on how you feel pressured to act, but what’s truly best for you.

3. Find more gratitude for the small things

Stress less, be thankful more. Research shows that gratitude can increase well-being and improve life satisfaction. So why stew over why things aren’t going your way?

Gratitude is all about feeling appreciation for what is valuable and meaningful to yourself. And the best thing about gratitude is that it attracts more prosperity into your life!

4. Spend time with others who have an abundance mindset

Did you know that research shows we mirror the habits of our friends and family? If that’s the case, you need to be spending your time with others who have an abundance mindset.

Shift your circle of influence to find people who have a good balance of financial comfort and success. Their good vibes are sure to wear off on you!

5. Find a lesson in your perceived failures

First things first – you probably didn’t fail, at least not as bad as you may think. Even if you make one of these worst financial decisions, you can recover.

Every perceived failure is just an opportunity to learn. Find the lesson in every situation so you can become a better person, inside and out.

6. Trust in your self-worth

Let’s be clear about one thing – you are invaluable! Don’t forget that. It’s easy to slip into patterns of thought where you think you aren’t worth anything. That’s even easier to believe if the numbers in your bank account agree. But these feelings aren’t real.

Take a step back and look at the situation from a different light. You deserve to achieve your goals as well as be happy with your life. You don’t have to choose one or the other. Everyone is worthy – even you!

Get rid of your scarcity mentality for good

Remember, money can’t buy happiness. Scarcity isn’t always the best for a comfortable financial life. Think abundantly, and financial success will follow.

Need even more help? Try out our completely free money mindset course so you can work on creating a plan for your finances that makes you happy and puts you in a good place mentally.

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Keeping A Spending Journal To Improve Your Finances https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/how-to-keep-a-spending-journal/ Fri, 08 Jan 2021 22:46:44 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=10384 […]

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Spending Journal

Can't figure out where all your money is going or why you can't seem to save? Consistently keeping a spending journal and spending log will tell you exactly what's happening with your money. By recording your spending habits and transactions consistently, you can learn what you're spending your money on and why.

What is a spending journal, aka a spending diary? 

A spending diary is a documentation of every single expenditure you make on a daily basis over a period of time. For instance, over a 30 day period.

The goal of having a spending diary is to keep you more aware of how you are spending your money, help you identify your spending habits, and also to help you identify what areas of improvement exist for you to do better.

Keeping a spending diary is an incredible eye-opening exercise if you follow through. Think of it as a form of financial record keeping.

I highly recommend a pen and notebook that you carry around with you as opposed to keeping your journal in an app or other electronic forms. Why? There's just something about putting pen to paper when you first start this exercise as well as seeing things laid out in your own handwriting that helps with perspective. Psychology...magic...call it what you will, but it works!

Difference between a spending journal and a spending log

A spending journal is where you will write down how you feel when you purchase a certain item. A spending log will be the descriptive documentation of the purchase.

For example, in your journal you could write, "I was feeling upset today, so I treated myself to a new pair of shoes." And then as a spending log, you could write the transaction of where you bought the shoes and how much they cost.

A spending journal is a type of effective journaling. It can help you make the connection between your thoughts, feelings, and habits. It also makes you accountable for your spending habits and gives you a visual of how you feel when you spend money.

A spending log will record every single dollar you spend throughout the month. This will show you in black and white down to every dollar exactly what you are spending your money on.

How to build your spending log into your spending journal

In your spending journal, you can also create a section for your spending log. You can do this by dedicating a section in your spending log to keep all of your transactions in one place.

Alternatively, you can add a journal section at the end of each spending log so you can track the emotional aspect of your spending. This essentially is the whole point of keeping a spending journal.

Remember, the spending log is where you record all of your transactions, similar to balancing a checkbook. There should be a section to write the date, descriptions of the transactions, and the amount of the transaction.

Another option when you build your spending log is to make a spending journal binder. You could put your notebook into the binder then use printable spreadsheets to use for your spending log.

You can create spreadsheets with Excel or Google Sheets and print them out to put them in your binder. Remember writing in your spending journal, and spending log will help keep you accountable for your spending habits.

Setting up your spending journal

To successfully track your spending, you need to commit to writing something down every time you make a transaction over a specific period of time. This will help you identify your feelings and help you understand why you are spending money on various items. (Leveraging journal prompts might help).

From a pack of gum to coffee to lunch, every single transaction should go into your spending journal. You can either write down your thoughts and transactions as they happen or you can document things at the end of each day.

Keeping your receipts handy will ensure that you don't forget any transactions. You'd be surprised at how much those little purchases add up to every month.

For example, if you bought a new handbag but didn't actually need it, you would record how you were feeling and what led to the purchase. Were you upset about something and buying the new handbag made you "feel better"?

This is a crucial part of a spending journal because it can help you figure out your money habits based on your behavior.

How do you record your transactions?

If you choose to have a combined spending journal and spending log, you want to make sure you are recording your transactions properly.

A great way to do it is to add enough detail so when you come back at the end of the day or at the end of the week to review your spending; you remember what it was that you spent money on. In your journal, consider including the following:

  • The date
  • The item description
  • How much you spent
  • What it was for and how you feel about the expenditure

For instance, if you purchased a coffee from Starbucks, then you would enter the date followed by the description of where and what you purchased, then the amount. Tracking your transactions helps you to see where your money is going.

Reviewing your spending journal

As you progress with documenting your spending, plan to review your journal at least once a week to see how you are doing. Remember, the goal is to help you gain clarity around your spending habits. So don't judge yourself and so don't edit your entries!

Instead, as you review your journal, come up with a plan or steps to adjust the spending patterns or habits that you are beginning to identify that you don't like and then build the changes into your budget as well.

As you track your spending in your journal, you'll start to find that you are more aware of your spending habits. You will even start to make better decisions around your money because you are now actively thinking things through instead of spending money without giving it much thought. You might even consider a spending freeze.

You may also find that you are spending less, which is the perfect opportunity to use those freed-up funds towards your debt repayment or savings.

Track your way to financial success

There's no doubt that a spending journal will improve your finances. By tracking your habits and transactions you can learn how to budget your money better.

This will help you work towards saving more money and help prevent money mishaps. To help reduce your spending even further check out these frugal living tips to save a ton of money! After all, is said and done, it's definitely a worthwhile exercise to do!

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How To Become Successful! Key Tips And Habits https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/how-to-become-successful/ Sun, 06 Dec 2020 13:39:39 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=10108 […]

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How to become successful

We all want to be successful in life. It’s our innate human desire to excel and, generally, be good at things. Ultimately, the key to fulfilling this natural inclination is understanding how to become successful. This should go without saying, but success in life doesn’t just happen. Attaining success requires a concentrated effort, along with great habits and practices.

What is success?

In general, success simply means that you accomplish a specific outcome or goal. By this definition, you’ll quickly realize that success in life has no universal measure. That’s because we each have different goals that we want to accomplish and outcomes that we want to realize.

For you, it may be hitting a savings goal or earning a degree, while it may be landing a dream job for someone else. Each person should have their own measure of success that stems from what they want to accomplish in life. This also means that success doesn’t necessarily equate to wealth or even fame.

Knowing that success means something different to each person, we should avoid comparing our life and progress to someone else’s. Instead, we can glean from the habits and characteristics of people who consistently set and achieve goals in life.

Habits of successful people

People who consistently achieve their goals are, by definition, successful people. Though we shouldn’t seek to mimic their life, we should examine their habits and character traits so that we can apply them to our own.

There are some habits and traits that are common among successful people. Here are six that you can start adopting today.

1. Investing in personal & professional development

One thing that you may notice about successful people is that they invest in their personal and professional development.

They understand that in order to continue to reach higher levels of accomplishments, they’ll need the tools necessary to get there. Some ways that you can invest in your personal and professional development include reading books, enrolling in courses, and attending seminars & training. It's one of the good work habits to adopt.

Those who are successful are always learning and applying what they’ve learned to move past simply being average and become better. If you want to become successful, these are practices that you should incorporate into your own life.

2. Prioritizing health and wellness

There’s a saying that says, “Health is wealth.” Successful people realize that they can’t perform their best when their health is in poor condition. Instead, they invest their time and money into making sure they take care of their body.

Investing in your health doesn’t have to be a grand gesture or expense, for that matter. Simply getting up and being active for at least 30 minutes a day is an investment in your health and wellness. Your health isn’t just limited to your physical activity, though.

Overall wellness takes into account your mental health as well. Some practices that you can adopt to maintain good mental health include meditation, mindfulness, and journaling.

3. Receiving mentorship and coaching

Another common habit among successful people is their willingness to receive mentorship and coaching from those who have more experience. We often think of coaching as it pertains to sports, but it is far more expansive.

Even world leaders have advisors from whom they seek mentorship and guidance. Having wise counsel throughout life can’t be understated. Mentorship and coaching allow you to avoid common pitfalls that will hinder your progress.

When you have someone who can provide a roadmap to your success, it is the epitome of working smarter, not harder.

4. Giving to those in need

There’s a principle that governs life: When you give, you’ll receive. Giving is one of the most admirable traits of successful people. They understand that their life will be more fulfilled when you give to others—especially to those who can’t give anything in return.

Generosity is a conduit for success. When you give to others, you welcome abundance into your life. This doesn’t necessarily mean money, but it can be an abundance of opportunities, resources, and relationships that will help you attain your goals. Ultimately, it takes more effort to hold on to something than it does to release it.

5. Taking action

Successful people take action. After all, you can’t accomplish anything by just willing it with your mind. You have to get up and do the work. If you want to be successful, you have to be willing to do the work necessary to achieve your goals. This also means stepping outside your comfort zone.

6. Relinquishing the fear of failure

As contradictory as it may sound, successful people fail and, sometimes, often. The caveat is that they aren’t afraid of failure and welcome it as an opportunity to learn. If you want to have success in life, you must be willing to fail forward.

This means that although you don’t accomplish your goal the first time, you commit to moving forward and trying again.

Tips to follow for success in life

It’s time to take action and start working toward your own success! Here are five tips that will put you on the path to success.

Set goals

Remember that success is defined as accomplishing a goal. So without goals, there is no success. That means that the first step that you must complete in your journey to success is defining what you want to accomplish. Consider making financial goals and goals for your health, business, and even career goals.  

Plan for success

Success doesn’t just happen. You have to plan for it. This means that after you write down your goals, the next step is to create a plan to achieve them.

For example, creating a financial plan will help you reach your financial goals and become successful in managing your money.

Form good habits

As humans, we are creatures of habit. Knowing this, it’s imperative that you develop good habits that will push you toward your goals. Some good habits to adopt can include:

  • Waking up early
  • Reading daily
  • Exercising regularly
  • Maintaining an organized workspace & home
  • Using a calendar to plan your time
  • Journaling everyday
  • Meditating daily
  • Having a moment of gratitude each day

Forming good habits is a process that requires repetition. So the more that you do these good practices, the quicker they will become habits that will contribute to your success.

Expose yourself to new things

Exposing yourself to new ideas, cultures, and experiences allows you to expand your view on what’s possible. It can cause you to rethink your goals and aim for something greater.

Furthermore, the diversity in thought and experiences gives you more tools that you can leverage to achieve your goals. Seek out opportunities to explore new things to expand your knowledge and view of the world.

Surround yourself with the successful people

Who you associate with matters when it comes to success. Successful people tend to keep company with each other because, as the proverb says, “Iron sharpens iron.” If you want to be successful, surround yourself with other successful people.

This will motivate you and keep you accountable for reaching the goals that you set for yourself. Take some time out to assess your circle of influence!

How to become successful: Final thoughts

Ultimately, the measure of one’s success is personal. Becoming successful begins with defining what success is to you. What is it that you want to achieve? Once you are very clear on what you want, you can apply all of the tips shared here on how to become successful.

If you’re looking for a community of other women who are working their way to financial success, join our free community and get access to our wide range of completely free resources!

The post How To Become Successful! Key Tips And Habits appeared first on Clever Girl Finance.

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55 Financial Affirmations You Should Tell Yourself https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/financial-affirmations/ Fri, 21 Aug 2020 13:13:59 +0000 https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/?p=9735 […]

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Financial affirmations

In a world full of tempting splurges, financial affirmations can help you stay on the right track. Without a constant reminder of your financial goals, it can be difficult to summon the willpower to stay no to destructive financial habits. That’s when money affirmations can come in handy.

Let’s explore what exactly a financial affirmation is and why they can have an impact on your finances.

What are financial affirmations?

Financial affirmations are short sayings that you can tell yourself about money. Another name for financial affirmations could be money mantras or abundance affirmations. The goal is to encourage yourself while on your financial journey. It doesn’t matter where you are starting from, a money mantra can help you stay the course to reach your financial goals.

It is important to note that financial affirmations should always have a positive tone. You shouldn’t be constantly negatively critical of your choices or your finances. Instead, a positive tone will help you stay content with your money choices. A negative mantra could backfire into poor money decisions.

Affirmations are not unique to personal finance. You can build positive affirmations to harness the power of positive thinking in every aspect of your life. But today we will focus on financial affirmations.

Why financial affirmations matter

A positive mindset can make a major difference while you are working to keep your finances on track. Although it is easy to have negative emotions surrounding your finances, that negativity will not help you move forward. In fact, a negative mindset could keep you stuck in the same financial patterns that aren’t working for your life.

With a positive mindset, you can find good things because you are looking for them. Instead of only pointing out the slow progress or mistakes, you’ll find it is easier to comment on the forward progress you’ve made.

Financial affirmations can help you eliminate limiting beliefs from your mindset. That can help you move your finances towards your dreams. Don’t underestimate the power of positive thinking! You might be surprised how your whole life is transformed when you change your mindset.

List of financial affirmations

With a better grasp on why money affirmations are important, let’s dive into some of my favorite money affirmations.

Money mindset affirmations

1. I deserve a prosperous life.

2. Money is a tool that can change my life for the better.

3. I control money, money doesn’t control me.

4. Money flows to me freely as I move through this world.

5. I can use money to create a better life.

6. My finances don’t scare me because I have a plan.

7. I am worthy of a solid financial foundation.

8. Money can expand the opportunities of my life.

9. Negative emotions about money don’t serve my financial goals.

10. I am a very capable person that can tackle all money obstacles.

11. More money in my bank account doesn’t make me a bad person.

12. I am not poor, I am on the path to a wealthy life.

13. I can become financially free.

14. I have the power to be a financially successful person.

15. I have the power to improve my relationship with money.

16. I can find the positive in my money situation.

17. Through thoughtful generosity, more money will flow back to me.

18. My life is full of wealth beyond money.

19. I believe in my ability to use the money that comes into my life to meet my financial goals.

20. It is within my power to create a successful financial future.

21. With hard work and creativity, I can build the financial picture that I desire.

Income affirmations

22. My income can exceed my expenses.

23. Money is an abundant resource that I can earn.

24. My income has unlimited potential. 

25. I accept the flow of money from multiple sources.

26. My hard work will bring me money.

27. I can leverage my skills to bring in more money at any time.

28. I believe in my ability to earn more money.

29. There are countless opportunities to make more money in my life.

30. I deserve the opportunity to negotiate my salary.

31. I deserve to be paid a fair wage for my skills and time.

32. My job provides the opportunity to work towards my financial goals.

33. I can use money to change the world for the better.

34. I have enough money to freely enjoy my day to day life.

35. I will attain all the riches that I desire with time.

36. I am on my way to becoming wealthy.

Budgeting, saving and debt-payoff affirmations

37. I choose to spend my money wisely.

38. I can make my dreams a reality with careful budgeting.

39. Finding ways to have fun in a frugal way is enjoyable.

40. I can track my expenses and stick to a budget.

41. I have the discipline to make hard financial choices now to enjoy an easy life later.

42. My future self will thank me for saving money.

43. I will build an emergency fund to safeguard myself.

44. I am in control of my expenses.

45. I enjoy the challenge of saving more money.

46. I have the ability to spend money on the things that matter to me most.

47. Every dollar saved puts me closer to financial freedom.

48. I am happy when I spend my money responsibly.

49. I am more than my debt.

50. My debt doesn’t control me.

51. I am committed to eliminating all debts that don’t serve me from my life.

52. I spend money on what matters to me, not what matters to the Jones.

53. Making choices to build wealth today can allow me to build the life I desire.

54. I have the ability to build a base of financial literacy.

55. I am excited to keep my finances on the right path.

How many financial affirmations should I have?

Since your money goals are unique, it is okay to have multiple financial affirmations or combine several to motivate yourself. There is nothing wrong with an abundance of positive thinking. In fact, having more affirmations that you can identify with can help you continue moving forward.

It is important to note that you can create your own financial affirmation to suit your goals. Although this list encompasses a wide variety of mantras, creating your own affirmation can have an even more powerful effect. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your financial affirmations!

Where to place your financial affirmations

Once you’ve decided on your financial affirmations, it is time to repeat them. But it can be easy to forget these affirmations without a constant reminder.

With that, I recommend placing your financial affirmations in a place that you will see them regularly. A few good spots include a sticky note on your computer, the lock screen of your phone, or a small picture frame on your desk. It doesn’t matter where you place these affirmations, just make sure that you’ll see them often enough to have an impact on your life.

Leverage these financial affirmations today!

Once you start repeating these financial affirmations to yourself, the first change you may notice is a mindset shift. With a more positive attitude, you may slowly start to witness a change in your personal finance habits. The actions you take to align with your financial goals may seem like a more natural fit in your life.

As you work to improve your financial situation, take advantage of the free course offered by Clever Girl Finance that can help you transform your money mindset.

Also, be sure to check out our list of morning affirmations, self-love affirmations, and affirmations that work fast to change your life! With the right attitude and information available, you’ll be prepared to make lasting changes to your finances!

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57 Best Self Help Books For Women https://www.clevergirlfinance.com/self-help-books-for-women/ Thu, 14 Apr 2022 09:44:00 +0000 https://clevergirlcgf.wpengine.com/?p=6546 […]

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The best personal finance and career books for women

Let's talk about the best self-help books for women and more! I’m an avid book reader and proud to say that reading has changed my life overall including my finances. As a result of reading, I've gotten new ideas and fresh perspectives which have ultimately led to my growth and success as an individual.

Benefits of reading self-help books

So when people ask me about my opinion on the best self-help books for women, I always have a ton to share. Hence this ultimate list of best books for women that I've put together. There are just so many good ones! Plus there are numerous health benefits to reading books! Including:

  • Reducing stress and anxiety
  • Helping you fall asleep faster
  • Increasing overall life satisfaction and happiness

Benefits of reading books

Whether you want to read about personal finance, career development, business, or personal development, this ultimate list of the best self-help books for women, will help you be successful. These are books I've read over the years and books that have been recommended to me that have excellent reviews. The books in this article have been broken down into the following categories (Just click to go to your category of interest):

  1. Personal finance books
  2. Investing books
  3. Career books
  4. Books for female entrepreneurship
  5. Personal development books

The best personal finance books for women

Personal finance books fall in the top category when it comes to self-help books for women. In the lists below, you'll find some of my favorite books for women in their 20s, 30s, 40s, and beyond. They will help you build a foundation to grow your money and live your best life.

These books are great for beginners and will change your life for the better. They will help you stay motivated to do what you need to do with your finances and money.

Why should I read books about money?

Reading finance books motivates and inspires me to stay on top of my financial planning and keeps me focused on my long-term financial goals. Educating myself on personal finance by reading also contributed to my being able to achieve a major financial milestone—saving over $100,000 in just 3 years.

Learning about finances and money is crucial if you ever want to have financial freedom. It’s important to learn different viewpoints and perspectives and figure out what is best for you and your family.

A recent study found that the most common hobby of wealthy people was reading. We also know that some of the most successful people with money and business read a lot!

But aren’t all personal finance books the same?

This is a comment I hear a lot. But here’s my take; Financial concepts are financial concepts. And while they don’t change much, there is tremendous value in learning the various ways in which people implement these cornerstone financial concepts into their lives and the strategies they’ve used to create their own financial success.

Personal finance books provide you with a variety of opinions and strategies. And importantly, if you read them often enough, they keep you immersed in what you should be doing to achieve your own financial success. In addition, reading about personal finance from other people’s perspectives isn’t boring, especially when it’s by an incredible author.

As women earning money, we owe it to ourselves to define our financial success. Reading to educate yourself is a great way to get started. Here goes:

Favorite finance books for women

Let's get started with our favorite finance books for women!

1. Clever Girl Finance: Ditch Debt, Save Money, and Build Real Wealth by Bola Sokunbi

Clever Girl Finance: Ditch Debt, Save Money and Build Real Wealth is a book for women from a woman's perspective and to provide an actionable personal finance guide for beginners. Why? Well, at the beginning of my journey to building wealth, there were so few books by women or even by women of color.

Most of the books Bola read were by men and while they are great books, she wishes she had something directly relatable to her. So she wrote the book she wishes she had. Definitely one of our favorite books on money and budgeting!

cgf book large

 

2. Millionaire Women Next Door by Thomas J. Stanley

The Millionaire Women Next Door book is the women’s version of Millionaire Next Door. He tells the stories of women millionaires and how they built their wealth.

3. Nice Girls Don't Get Rich: 75 Avoidable Mistakes Women Make With Money by Lois P. Frankel.

In Nice Girls Don't Get Rich: 75 Avoidable Mistakes Women Make With Money, you'll learn the common mistakes that are holding women back from financial success and in turn, how to overcome them.

4. Smart Women Finish Rich by David Bach

In David Bach’s book, Smart Women Finish Rich, he lays out his 9 step plan for establishing financial security and building long-term wealth.

Nice girls don't get rich

 

5. Spend Well, Live Rich: How To Get What You Want With The Money You Have by Michelle Singletary

Michelle lays out the 7 practical money lessons she learned from her grandmother in her book, Spend Well, Live Rich: How To Get What You Want With The Money You Have. She then shares how she's implemented them to build a wealthy life and how you can too.

6. Rich Bitch: A Simple 12 Step Plan For Getting For Financial Life Together Finally by Nicole Lapin

In her book, Rich Bitch: A Simple 12 Step Plan For Getting For Financial Life Together Finally, Nicole lays out her simple 12-step plan to win with your finances. Including laying out the mistakes she made and how she overcame them.

7. Live It, Love It, Earn It: A Woman's Guide To Financial Freedom by Marianne Olszewski

Live It, Love It, Earn It: A Woman's Guide To Financial Freedom is a mix of personal finance and motivational advice. Marianne inspires you to surround yourself with people and situations that will push you toward success instead of away from it.

Best Personal Finance books Smart women finish rich

 

8. Financially Fearless by Alexa Von Tobel

Financially Fearless is all about building your financial plan around your own priorities and goals without giving up what you love.

9. Real Money Answers for Every Woman: How to Win the Money Game With or Without a Man by Patrice Washington

Real Money Answers for Every Woman will help you get out of debt, rebuild your credit, and reach your financial goals on your own!

10. Money, A Love Story: Untangle Your Financial Woes And Create The Life You Really Want by Kate Northrup

Money, A Love Story is all about identifying your relationship with money and building a healthy relationship with money. She helps identify your perceptions around money by identifying emotional aspects that are holding you back.

Best Personal Finance books Money a love story

 

11. Women & Money: Owning The Power To Control Your Destiny by Suze Orman

Women & Money: Owning The Power To Control Your Destiny lays out Suze’s 5-month plan for women. She helps you identify the emotional and practical knowledge surrounding money that is holding you back. Then helps you build your plan toward long-term wealth.

12. Broke Millennial: Stop Scraping By And Get Your Financial Life Together by Erin Lowry

Broke Millennial is for 20-30-year-old millennials looking for a financial plan that is not the typical personal finance book. This book will help those in their 20s and 30s navigate life with student loan debt and building friendships and romantic relationships while being open about your finances.

13. You Are a Badass at Making Money: Master the Mindset of Wealth by Jen Sincero

You Are a Badass at Making Money is a hilarious book filled with aha moments that will help you overcome the mindset that is holding you back from financial success.

Best Personal Finance books You are a badass at making money

14. The $1,000 Project: An Easy Guide To Mindful Saving And Financial Well Being by Canna Campbell

The $1,000 Project is an easy guide to saving money and seeing immediate results. Canna encourages saving in $1,000 buckets to stay motivated and to see faster results.

15. Secrets of Six-Figure Women: Surprising Strategies to Up Your Earnings and Change Your Life by Barbara Stanny

In Secrets of Six-Figure Women, Barbara interviews women making six figures and up to identify the key characteristics that helped them succeed so you can too.

Best Personal Finance books Secrets of six figure women

 

16. The Automatic Millionaire, A Powerful One-Step Plan to Live and Finish Rich by David Bach

The Automatic Millionaire is a one-step plan to becoming a millionaire regardless of where you are right now.

17. The Richest Man in Babylon by George S. Clason

The Richest Man in Babylon is full of interesting stories about financial success and the happiness that follows. It's based on ancient parables and stories that very much tie into today's world. You can also check out our favorite Richest Man in Babylon quotes!

18. 5 Lessons A Millionaire Taught Me For Women by Richard Paul Evans

5 Lessons A Millionaire Taught Me For Women is not just about money. It’s about building a life around God and your relationships in order to gain life’s real riches.

Best Personal Finance books The 5 lessons a millionaire taught me for women


Best investment books for women

Learning about investing doesn't have to be scary and overwhelming. These beginner investing books are perfect for those that are just learning about how to invest. Plus some of the best personal finance books are about this very topic.

It is so important for women to learn about investing in order to have financial freedom. Studies have shown that women are less likely to invest and when they do, they start when they are older. Investing at a young age is crucial in order to take advantage of long-term gains and compound interest. The younger you start investing, the better off you will be when you decide to retire.

19. Clever Girl Finance: Learning How Investing Works, Grow Your Money by Bola Sokunbi

Clever Girl Finance: Learning How Investing Works, Grow Your Money focuses on teaching women how to make the best investment decisions for themselves; No fancy finance degree required! You'll be able to leverage investment to build long-term wealth even on a modest salary. You'll also learn the key pitfalls to avoid in order to become a successful investor and so much more!

Clever Girl Finance Investing

 

20. The Women's Guide to Successful Investing: Achieving Financial Security and Realizing Your Goals by Nancy Tengler

The Women's Guide to Successful Investing is an easy-to-understand guide that you can implement for long-term investing success.

Women's guide to successful investing book

 

21. The Little Book of Common Sense Investing: The Only Way to Guarantee Your Fair Share of Stock Market Returns by John C. Bogel

In The Little Book of Common Sense Investing, John shares how to be successful with investing in low-cost index funds.

22. The Intelligent Investor: The Definitive Book on Value Investing by Benjamin Graham

Learn how to build a long-term successful investing strategy and avoid costly mistakes with The Intelligent Investor. It focuses specifically on investing for value over time.

The intelligent investor book

 

23. Smart Investors Keep It Simple: Creating Passive Income With Dividend Stocks by Giovanni Rigters

Smart Investors Keep It Simple teaches you the basics of the stock market and the ins and outs of building long-term success.

24. Warren Buffett Invests Like A Girl by The Motley Fool and LouAnn Lofton

In Warren Buffett Invests Like A Girl, learn how to invest like Warren Buffet does. He invests smartly and intentionally and by doing the same you can lower your risk while increasing your gains. There's a reason why women are better investors.

25. The Complete TurtleTrader: How 23 Novice Investors Became Overnight Millionaires by Michael W. Covel

The Complete TurtleTrader is based on the true story of how a millionaire investor taught others to do the same.

26. The Book on Rental Property Investing: How to Create Wealth and Passive Income Through Smart Buy & Hold Real Estate Investing by Brandon Turner

In The Book on Rental Property Investing, you have the perfect guide on investing in real estate the right way. Learn how to become a millionaire with rental properties.

The book on rental property investing

Best career books for women

Building a business or career is not easy, especially when trying to balance family life and career. Most business books are written by men to men. These are the best self-help books for women in business written by other women.

27. Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office: Unconscious Mistakes Women Make That Sabotage Their Careers by Lois P. Frankel

In Nice Girls Don't Get the Corner Office, Lois examines the tendencies that women have that keep them from success. She also shares key tips for women to achieve the success they desire in their careers.

Nice girls don't get the corner office book

 

28. Mistakes I Made at Work: 25 Influential Women Reflect on What They Got Out of Getting It Wrong by Jessica Bacal

In Mistakes I Made at Work, Jessica interviews 25 very successful women about the mistakes they made during their careers and how they learned from them.

29. Own It: The Power of Women at Work by Sallie Krawcheck

In Own It, Sallie draws on her own experience in man’s world and how to navigate that world to achieve your own success.

30. Women Don't Ask: The High Cost of Avoiding Negotiation--and Positive Strategies for Change by Linda Babcock.

In Women Don't Ask, overcome your fears of negotiating. Start making as much if not more than the men in your field.

Women don't ask book

 

31. Fearless and Free: How Smart Women Pivot and Relaunch Their Careers by Wendy Sachs

Fearless and Free teaches you how to overcome your fears and launch your career without holding yourself back.

32. Boss Bitch: A Simple 12-Step Plan to Take Charge of Your Career by Nicole Lapin

In Boss Bitch, Nicole walks you through how to take control of your future by being more confident and ambitious.

33. Power Moves: How Women Can Pivot, Reboot, and Build a Career of Purpose by Lauren McGoodwin

Learn how to get unstuck and become fulfilled with your career based on the actionable advice and tools in Power Moves.

34. Leave Your Mark: Land Your Dream Job. Kill It in Your Career. Rock Social Media by Aliza Licht

Aliza shares her real-life experience of building a brand and how you too can make your mark on your business in her book, Leave Your Mark.

35. The Myth of the Nice Girl: Achieving a Career You Love Without Becoming a Person You Hate by Fran Hauser

Take your career to the next level while still being true to yourself and not selling out with The Myth of the Nice Girl.

The myth of the nice girl book


Best books for female entrepreneurs

Building a business is not easy and it is a constant balance of learning, reading, and building our customer base. However, the more we can learn from others that have already been there and done that, the better off our businesses will be.

We can grow faster and make money doing what we love. These self-help books for women will help you grow your business and make it profitable from the get-go. Especially considering that over 50% of new businesses close in the first 5 years.

36. The Side Hustle Guide: Build a Successful Side Hustle And Increase Your Income by Bola Sokunbi

The Side Hustle Guide is the 3rd book in the Clever Finance series. It's all about empowering women to expand their income. From mindset to branding to business finances, we've got you covered!Side Hustle Guide Book

 

37. She Means Business: Turn Your Ideas into Reality and Become a Wildly Successful Entrepreneur by Carrie Green

In She Means Business, Carries teaches you how to turn your passion and dreams into a money-making business. She also focused heavily on mindset and believing in yourself, something that is necessary on the entrepreneurial journey.

38. Business Boutique: A Woman's Guide for Making Money Doing What She Loves by Christy Wright

Business Boutique will help you build a business around what you are passionate about. Christy’s advice and tips are precisely what you need to start your business today. Great for beginners!

 

39. #GIRLBOSS by Sophia Amoruso

#GIRLBOSS will help you follow your instincts and build a business by throwing out the old way of doing things and doing what works instead.

40. Girl Code: Unlocking the Secrets to Success, Sanity, and Happiness for the Female Entrepreneur by Cara Awill Leyba

With Girl Code, learn how to build your confidence and help other women. You'll also learn about building a community of support not one of jealousy and competition.

41. Profit First: Transform Your Business from a Cash-Eating Monster to a Money-Making Machine by Mike Michalowicz

Profit First will help your business be profitable from the start and helps you break down exactly how you should structure your business finances.Profit first book

 

42. The E-Myth Revisited: Why Most Small Businesses Don't Work and What to Do About It by Michael E. Gerber

Learn from years of experience about building a small business and do what works with The E-Myth Revisited! Learn what essential processes to put in place, what to outsourcing, time management, and more.

43. The 4-Hour Workweek: Escape 9-5, Live Anywhere, and Join the New Rich by Tim Ferris.

Learn how to be more efficient and optimize your time with the simple tips in The 4-Hour Workweek. Make more money while working less!

44. Million Dollar Women: The Essential Guide for Female Entrepreneurs Who Want to Go Big by Julia Pimsleur

Learn the fundamentals of networking and how getting the right support can help you build a million-dollar business with Million Dollar Women. From fundraising to finding the team and mentors, this book walks you through it all.

Million dollar women book

 

45. Dear Female Founder: 66 Letters of Advice from Women Entrepreneurs Who Have Made $1 Billion in Revenue by Lu Li

Get the advice that you will wish you had when you started your business in Dear Female Founder. It's laid out as letters from other female entrepreneurs who've taken the journey.

46. Blue Ocean Strategy, Expanded Edition: How to Create Uncontested Market Space and Make the Competition Irrelevant by W. Chan Kim and Renee Mauborgne

In Blue Ocean Strategy, Expanded Edition, learn how to be innovative and create success by finding the right marketing space and getting ahead of your competition.

Blue Ocean Strategy

 

47. Blue Ocean Shift: Beyond Competing - Proven Steps to Inspire Confidence and Seize New Growth by W. Chan Kim and Renee Mauborgne

Ignore the competition and inspire new growth by learning what works and what doesn’t in Blue Ocean Shift.

48. Choosing to Prosper: Triumphing Over Adversity, Breaking Out of Comfort Zones, and Achieving Dreams by Bola Sokunbi

In Choosing to Prosper celebrated company founder and finance leader Bola Sokunbi delivers an uplifting and practical message of success and resilience.

The book challenges readers to examine their own financial and personal dreams and find the strength and resilience they need to achieve them. It is the perfect resource for women trying to navigate the challenges posed by modern life, career, and business.

Choosing to prosper book cover


Best books for personal development books for women

These are my favorite books on learning how to improve your mindset and beliefs in order to live your best life. Personal development has a wide variety of sub-topics when it comes to self-help books for women. Below are some favorites that will help you be successful in your personal and professional life.

49. Year of Yes: How to Dance It Out, Stand In the Sun and Be Your Own Person by Shonda Rhimes

Learn how saying “yes” can transform your life in Year of Yes. Shonda showcases her own successes on her journey both professionally and personally by saying yes.

The year of yes Shonda Rhimes

 

50. No Excuses!: The Power of Self-Discipline by Brian Tracy

Success does not come from luck but from self-discipline. Start taking control of your life and leave the excuses at the door. Brian teaches you exactly how to drop the excuses holding you back in No Excuses!.

51. Believe Bigger: Discover the Path to Your Life Purpose by Marshawn Evan Daniels

In Believe Bigger, Marshawn shares her 5 step plan that will help you hear what God is telling you to do in your life. This is a faith-based book.

52. You Are a Badass: How to Stop Doubting Your Greatness and Start Living an Awesome Life by Jen Sincero

This hilarious book, You Are a Badass, will help you stop the self-sabotage so you can get the life you want.

You are a badass book

 

53. Cultivate: A Grace-Filled Guide to Growing an Intentional Life by Lara Casey

In Cultivate, learn how to stop the beliefs that as women we should be able to do it all, all the time. Lara focuses on finding intention and giving yourself grace for a happier life.

54. Successful Women Think Differently: 9 Habits to Make You Happier, Healthier, and More Resilient by Valorie Burton

In Successful Women Think Differently, learn exactly how to build new thought processes so you can be more successful and resilient.

55. Girl, Wash Your Face: Stop Believing the Lies About Who You Are so You Can Become Who You Were Meant to Be by Rachel Hollis

In Girl, Wash Your Face, Rachel walks you through the lies and mindsets that are holding us back from being who God meant us to be.

Girl wash your face Rachel Hollis

 

56. Jump: Take the Leap of Faith to Achieve Your Life of Abundance by Steve Harvey

In Jump: Take the Leap of Faith to Achieve Your Life of Abundance, learn how to use your faith and your own natural talents to pursue a life of abundance.

57. Abundance Now: Amplify Your Life & Achieve Prosperity Today by Lisa Nichols

In Abundance Now, Lisa shares her own journey and struggles in order to teach you how to live your best life.

Abundance now Lisa Nichols

Leverage these best self help books for women!

leveraging these self-help books for women will help you grow finances, career, business, and mindset. A good book can inspire and motivate you to move to the next level of success in your personal and professional life.

It is so important to read books that will help you grow personally and professionally. The more you learn, the faster you can grow and become who you were meant to be! I challenge you to read one book a month and see how it can change your life for the better. I hope this list of best self-help books for women inspires you.

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