How Big is Your Emergency Fund?
How big is your emergency fund? Experts recommend an emergency fund that covers at least 3 months of basic living expenses. Bankrate.com says this number can vary in certain situations. If you’re self-employed, a larger emergency fund can help when income fluctuates throughout the year. If your job’s unstable or you’re employed in a high-risk […]
Reduce Your Financial Stress
Financial stress got you down? A Gallup poll found that 20% of those surveyed report having a great life. They’re fulfilled by their work, live in great communities, have good physical health, have loved ones they can turn to for help, and have very low financial stress. Financial stress impacts health and relationships. It’s linked […]
Weed Out Weaknesses
Our small weaknesses can do big damage to our wallets. We’re easily blinded to our weaknesses because our spending is so habitual. Ask the Lord, your spouse, or a friend to help you see them. For some people, it’s the daily food and drink purchases. For others, it’s fashion, fitness gear, exotic vacations, and more. […]
60 Day Financial Challenge
Are you familiar with #75Hard? Perhaps you’ve heard about the 75 Day Hard Challenge. Participants follow five rules for 75 days. If you fail at any point, you have to start over from day one. Here’s the challenge: • Follow a diet: no cheat meals or alcohol allowed. • Work out twice a day for […]
Financial Freedom
Happy 4th of July! I have fond memories of a neighborhood parade we started years ago. It was a time to celebrate our freedom dressed in red, white, and blue. Children rode decorated bikes, walked their dress-up dogs and waved flags to cheering neighbors. Unfortunately, many do not know the joy of financial freedom. Do […]
Medical Debt – Part 2
Medical debt is rising. According to the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau, medical collections appear on 43 million credit reports. They account for $88 billion in medical debt. Yet research shows that medical debt does not predict a person’s credit risk. In fact, beginning July 1, Equifax, Experian and TransUnion will no longer include medical debt that […]
Seasons and Financial Resolve
“There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heavens” (Ecclesiastes 3:1) A new year inspires me and provides the opportunity to start fresh. Maybe you feel the same way. Here are 7 tips from LifeHack.org with my commentary on how to make good financial resolutions. Pick one thing. Don’t […]
Sugar, Discipline and Financial Goals
Needing some self-control to manage your money? Years ago, I was frustrated with my physical condition. I knew I could do better with a little discipline. So, one January 1st, I resolved to eliminate all sugar from my diet: no desserts, no candy, and no sweeteners in my coffee. I learned to say no to […]
4 Money Mistakes: #3 – Failing to Schedule Expenses
Four money mistakes can affect your financial health. This week, I’ve addressed the problems of a get-rich-quick mentality and failing to listen to your spouse. Mistake #3 is failing to schedule for unexpected expenses. You are planning a financial disaster if you fail to plan for the unpredictable. These are things that haven’t come due […]
Financial Stress of Military Families
Military families face many challenges. An annual military family lifestyle survey conducted by Blue Star Families found that the service members and their spouses rank financial stress as their greatest concern, even over deployment. Many don’t pay their bills on time and some have debts in collection. Childcare costs and relocation expenses make it extra […]
