I hope you’re aware by now that nobody cares more about your money and overall wellbeing then you do. But also be aware that you have the ability to influence your financial situation. At any given time, your influence is either contributing to your future positively or negatively. It’s very seldom static. The good news is that handling your money is a learned behavior, and so you can learn to organize yourself into a more wealthy situation. But first, you will need to change your finance mindset to do what winners do.
The Only Constant in Life is Change – François de la Rochefoucauld
1. Choice
Change starts with a choice. So ask yourselfL ‘Do I want to change for the better?’ When you hear yourself saying things such as “I am living paycheck to paycheck” or “I can’t afford that” or “I have no retirement savings”, it’s time for you to make a decision to reorganize your life and get out of the mess you have created.
2. Courage
Changing takes courage. More often than not, we lack the guts to change our situation mostly because of external pressures. Most people, who have successfully made positive changes, had to take the unpopular route. This may mean you’ll encounter some resistence. If you have a financial goal to achieve, make a plan and stick to it. This may mean downsizing, less outings with friends and family, no more vacations until the debt is paid off. These moves will appear unpopular but the end result is worth the sacrifice.
3. Concentration
Change demands a lot of focus. There are plenty of interruptions that may cause you to lose focus. But with a systematic plan of action, you will be able to remain focused. As you start your financial plan, have an end result in mind. What are the overall goals you’re determine to achieve with your plan? The big picture view will help you stay on track.
4. Confidence
Assuming you are the manager at your financial ‘office’, make decisions with confidence. When in doubt, seek for advice from people who are already financial independent. There are numerous trainings and seminars in which you can learn how to take the steps towards financial freedom. Realize you are the manager of your financial life. If you lack confidence in money matters, educate yourself. Attend seminars and workshops, look for mentors or hire a professional with the heart of a teacher to educate you as you plan out your financial future. The more you learn about handling your money, the more confidence you will have in executing financial decisions.
5. Consistency
Like anything in life, it pays off to be consistent in most areas of your life. Create a budget every month. Review and revise your budget weekly in order to accommodate any changes in your lifestyle. Look at your goals often to ensure you are on track. Don’t stop learning and educating yourself about finances (or anything else that matters to you). All the changes you make and the lessons you learn can be easily unlearned if you’re not consistent in your execution of your goals.
6. Chance
Give yourself a winning chance. You deserve to have a fulfilled life. Many people discount themselves because of the many mistakes they have done in the past. Granted some of the consequences may still linger, but you still have a chance to get back on track to financial freedom. Any personal and financial change starts with giving yourself a chance.
7. Control
When your financial situation is out of control, only YOU can take control of it. Not the government, not your parents, nor your spouse. Acknowledge the facts and take control of the situation by creating an action plan that you can implement immediately.
If your financial situation does not reflect your financial goals, change it. Keep educating yourself and don’t hesitate to seek professional help when necessary. In so doing, you will be creating a brighter financial future for yourself and your loved ones.