Five Steps to Join Me in A Conscious August

Five Steps to Join Me in A Conscious August

Consciousness is what I teach whether with spending, saving or investing. What did No Buy July do for me? Reminded me to revisit and reflect on my spending periodically myself.

July was an opportunity to be more intentional about my spending or lack of it. Yes, by nature and profession I pay attention to numbers, especially cash flow. Yet, there is always room for improvement.

I often spend when I am tired – too tired to cook or exhausted from the day and just want to zone out in front of the television, meaning I reach for something that will entertain me best – often a movie or recently released series. Most of them with an upcharge.

I am a realist. In today’s world, spending is ever present. How you do it and when and why are the questions. Those deeper questions are what is important to getting one’s spending under control.

In addition, taking care of the financial details provides the clarity to get a handle on one’s finances. The month of July allowed me the time to slow down and really look at what was occurring with my spending.

You may benefit from my learnings. Here’s the specifics of what I learned and my next steps:

1. Write Wants Down:

I need to write things down that I want or perceive as needing. Delaying spending is a strategy we all can do. Then, you can prioritize and be thoughtful about your purchases. Plus, that mindful step which slows down the purchase, makes one more appreciative when the purchase arrives.  

Prioritizing is not easy, where I struggled was everyday typical things I used.

For example, are vitamins a want or need? I waited to replace some until the end of the month, considering them groceries.

And what if something broke, did I buy a new one right away? My electric kettle boiled its final water mid-month. As something I used multiple times a day, I wanted another one; however, I realized I had other options. I boiled water each day on the stove. The delay reminded me to appreciate an electric kettle. The wonderful convenience was the first thing I bought on August 1st. 

2. Review Subscriptions:

Taking the time to go online or on the phone to change or cancel subscriptions pays off. With the extra time last month, I revisited all my subscriptions. The prices have risen for many. Cancelling was easy for the ones I do not use often enough. Yet, each time I tried to cancel, I was offered a better deal. I came out saving about $12-15 dollars per subscription I decided to keep. And saving the monthly payout on the ones I cancelled.

3. Question Financial Apps:

People always tell me that their bank, phone app or financial procedure is the best way to go. Digitally makes everything easier. They do not mean you do not have to pay attention though. This month I learned, Venmo is not always perfect. I use it occasionally to pay or receive money from friends. When I went to pay for a yoga class, I noticed a request that was waiting out there from an event three years ago. Strange I thought I had never noticed before now and thought she had paid me. I did nothing until my friend texted me because she got the same on her end and was appalled she had not paid me. I told her I really thought she had but after looking through my Venmo app could not find the payment. She did some research and sure enough had a screenshot of having paid the exact amount the same month we travelled together. Lesson learned for both of us and now hopefully, you.

4. Make Minor Changes:

Minor changes add up to big ones. Not going into stores. Not using credit cards. And then avoiding the pervasive latte option. Slight changes make life better as there is more money left at the end of the month.

5. Benefits of Not Buying:

Not buying means Time for other things. If you are not scrolling Amazon, or clothing sites, nor heading out to shop, there is more time for walking, cooking, and being with loved ones. A bonus that far outweighs any other advantage of being conscious financially: time.

Always think critically about buying, signing up for a subscription or spending money. Spending needs to resonate with who we are, not be an automatic reaction.

So what am I doing for Conscious August:

1. Taking the time to write it all down. Whether I use credit cards, debit cards or cash, whether it is for business or personal, this month I will record it everything.  

2. I am also reading and sharing what others say about this money behavior we use automatically. Like Michelle Singletary who summed it up best in a recent article, “Five Financial Lies People Should Stop Telling Themselves.” 

Singletary covered a range of topics from not having an emergency fund to spending more on dining out than you really know.

Here is my favorite from her piece: 

"I manage my spending better with a credit card. Monthly statements show where money went, but research reveals that paying with plastic — credit or debit — increases how much people spend. A Federal Reserve Bank of Boston report found that consumers spend an average of $22 per transaction when paying with cash, compared with $112 when using cards."

To see the whole piece may be challenging as I am not a subscriber so sometimes I get in, sometimes I do not. Keep trying. Here is the link 

One outcome of my changing behavior in July? Watching the Seventies television show, Rhoda free on YouTube instead of the pricier Gilded Age. Spoiler alert, I am still sad that Rhoda and Joe separated. I think I am less attached to the Gilded Age characters as I did not grow up with them. That show feels like history. Rhoda feels like a friend. 

May you find more time for yourself and with friends this month and in the future, because of your conscious financial decisions. 

I will be out of the office periodically over the coming months for fun and speaking. From conferences to a friend’s wedding to speaking gigs. I am looking forward to an active fall.

• Learn about my upcoming events

• Read more about my struggles and strategies for No Buy July

No Buy July comes to MoneyPeace

No Buy July caught my eye because of the catchy rhyming phrase. I also thought “this will be a cinch.” Afterall, I'm already aware of my spending, I don't like to shop. And it's summer! My confident thoughts were misinformed. Confidence and consciousness do not always align.

Instead, No Buy July has had a deep impact on me. I have been learning even more about myself, my spending, and my choices. MoneyPeace’s principal of making conscious choices are not always aligned with my spending. Let’s call my choices “a little fuzzy sometimes.” Yes, I was still making a few not so conscious choices. I had no idea how often I stopped for coffee or a treat when I had a busy day. Using this as a reward and rest when a few minutes sitting in the car or chatting with a friend would have done the same.

Then, there is the burnt out me – stretched on the couch, looking for some intriguing show to watch. When I stumble on just the right thing, Amazon often wants to give me an upcharge. What is a few extra dollars? That is what they have trained us to think. Whether a monthly Netflix subscription, free week of HBO or limited time subscription offer flashing across the screen, this weary decision maker will usually click. However, day one of No Buy July, I caught myself before I did. Yes, I wanted to see the latest season of the HBO series, The Gilded Age, but I kept on track. (Please do not tell me what has happened.)

So I did jump in with both feet to No Buy July, but had to adjust in week one. Quickly I learned that I had to adapt one of my strict rules of no extras. I wanted to honor my commitments that I had already made. Last week, I took a friend out for their birthday lunch – it was delicious and fun. No matter that their birthday was in early June! I had promised them a birthday lunch and so I paid for something that wasn't essential or groceries.

I have found the upside to all this no buy. This past weekend I did some chores with the materials at hand. They were the projects that had gotten delayed partly because I really wasn't psyched to do them. In the midst of polishing windows, polishing my leather Blundstone boots and a bit of deep cleaning in the kitchen, I did not think about spending money at all. When I was done, the added bonus came to me: no longer were chores staring me in the face and making me weary!

I also cooked and baked this weekend because I had time. Those activities had their own benefits. I was staying off the computer and its buying temptations and ate better, too. Win, win!

There have been a few non-wins. After that lunch last week, I wandered into Sweet Charity. This delightful secondhand store always draws me in. On that day, They had candles at an incredibly discounted price and I bought four to have at home. Only when I got home and went to put them away, did I realize my slip. No one's perfect!

Whatever your motivation to try No Buy July or any other financial change, remember you have control over your money and decision making. You may want to cut your spending, stop supporting large corporations, or just become more attentive to your everyday life.

Here are some tips to get you in the swing of not buying:

1. Can you get your family on board? Or perhaps some friends to make it more fun?

2. Clean up some paperwork that has been set aside. Bonus if it brings in money such as medical reimbursement or expense reports.

3. Plan an outing that is totally free. See how much fun you can have, then plan another.

4. If staying off the computer is not for you and on-line shopping is calling, email yourself the piece of clothing or sporting equipment you really want. Then, set up a folder titled shopping or No Buy July and file it there. In August, go ahead back there and review. You will have an easy reminder if what you wanted is still important to you.

Pay attention to what you learn. This is about getting off autopilot and back in conscious decision making around your money. The world moves fast. We need the reminder that we do not have to keep up the pace. Sometimes a pause may be the most nourishing gift to give yourself.

Want to follow more about what I have been learning? Check out my videos on social media or my blog.

Have a fun month!

99 and Feeling Fine

My first major learning was on a fan bus to Rockies Baseball Stadium. Okay, the true picture was it was a Boulder City bus that went to Denver every day but this Sunday I was on my way to the game. (To cheer for the Dodgers with my husband, but on the bus, we kept a low profile.) As the bus filled at every stop, to the point that people were standing in the aisle, a family got on. There was a bit of standing room though a lovely person had her two young children get up and sit on her lap for the eldest of the clan. A smiling woman about my age said, “Oh, here is a seat for you Grandma.” I smiled. The woman’s two young children squeezed in a seat nearby. As passengers crammed up the aisle, I had the smiling woman next to me and started up a conversation. She was with her own family of four and her Dad and her Grandma heading to the game. She offered, “My grandmother is 99!”

Ninety-nine and taking the bus. Ninety-nine and a huge Rockies fan. Ninety-nine and spry as someone twenty years younger by my observation. “What is her secret?” I asked as I was truly curious. Here is what I was told:

First, she has “No Regrets.”  

Second, she believes in, “Let it Go.” 

Her granddaughter added that her grandmother is Catholic and believes in the power of confession and confessing as part of the letting go process. Then, she moves on.

This 99 year old so impressed me, as I have been telling anyone who will listen. Neither of her mottos are easy to live by. I would add she did not have an easy life based on the brief conversation with her granddaughter. She lost a son in his twenties. Then, a second child died before her when she was an adult. She carried on. 

The final secret I learned when we all got off the bus a quarter of a mile and many stairs from the stadium entrance. On the arm of her “senior citizen” son, she was keeping pace with the rest of us. Her grandson in law commented, “Wow, Grandma, you walk along great.” 

 “Why wouldn’t I? I walk every day!” So I add to the healthy and happy list until 99, walk every day and have a bit of spunk! A passion or two will help as well. 

How are you preparing for a long and healthy life? Plan your finances, yes. Planning your life is just as important.

1. Check Your Regrets at the Door.

2. Release and Let Go. Move On.

3. Go For a Walk.

4. Enjoy your Passion.

5. Carry On.

Thank you Grandma for the lesson.

Mother Knows Best

May this find you all healthy and grounded as we ride out this unnerving time of life. I hope revisiting the suggestions below help you during this time. 

Whether you listen to the political pundits or the astrology experts and everyone in between, you may feel like Chicken Little, “The sky is falling, The Sky is Falling." The stock market is falling or rising dramatically, depending on the day. Legislation is changing. War is raging. The world is shifting in dramatic ways and there is nothing we can do about it. Or is there? 

Rather than stopping to listen to more noise in this erratic world, find out where you can make an impact for the better. That starts with and within yourself. The weather we cannot not do anything about, but we can put on a raincoat when it’s raining. Metaphorically speaking, it is raining now so what can we do?

The Stock Market: 

You cannot change what the stock market is doing. So, adding or decreasing your stock holdings will not change much. However, you can change your personal situation by rebalancing your portfolio. This simply means being sure that the risk you are taking with your combination of stock and bonds is appropriate for your needs. Another simple change applies to the new money you contribute to your 401k or other investments. (Do not stop investing.) Change the allocation to a more conservative investment than where it is being invested now. For example, if 100% of your 401k paycheck contribution is going into stock currently, you designate future contribution to be invested half into a bond fund and the other half to a stock fund, or do one-third each to cash, bonds, stocks. That would make it more conservative without missing out or having to make changes again if the stock market shifts. 

On the Political Front: 

Write your congressperson. Get involved in a campaign. Run for office. Becoming involved is critical to changing the process. Do not sit out the democratic process. 

Daily Spending:

Whether it be takeout, Amazon or on-line classes, we all developed new spending habits these past couple of years. Now is the time to reevaluate once again what fits our new world and whether some of what we needed in the recent past is no longer necessary. Even a monthly $9.00 adds up to $108.00 a year that can be saved or spent more appropriately for today. Perhaps you could cancel just one subscription? Check out this video for help

Climate Change:

Reduce, reuse, recycle. Many forget that first one...Reduce what you use. Personal impact matters. And sets a good example. If you are already doing that, find a way to educate others or just be an example in your community.

Charity:

Giving to a good cause of time and money is a powerful gift. When we give money, we are saying “we have enough to share.” We also do the same when we give our time to a cause we are passionate about. Most of all, giving feels as good as receiving and the studies prove it. Neural responses to taxation and voluntary giving reveal motives for charitable donations

Do the next right thing for you. Conscious action steps can help us move forward and decrease the Chicken Little emotional reactions. By taking conscious action, you have something positive to focus on. 

Take Care of yourself.

Time to Live Differently? Here’s 3 Ideas to Start

Time to Live Differently? Here’s 3 Ideas to Start

Gradual changes create sustainable improvements. Yet, we are in a quick fix society. Ponder the following ideas to implement long-lasting changes in your life.  

These are the ideas I have been thinking about:

1. Could you live on less?

Reduce. Reuse. Recycle. Food to clothes to housewares. Not only would this be good for the environment, your pocketbook would be in a better position as well.

The impact of you and your decision making is a way to take care of yourself beyond an economic blackout day, “no spend” January or stressing about how to save money.  

Living on less involves more thoughtful choices. Intentional spending, rather than on-line scrolling.  

Conscious consumption is not dictating what is right and wrong for you to spend on. Rather, you choose what you really want versus what is available for you to have. This lifestyle involves critical thinking. As a result, you will find yourself gifting, donating and sharing some of the things and clothes you do have.  

Think about the impact of you! Your finances will thank you if you start small today.

2. Car Planning And Options

For my CFP, I am always attending continuing education sessions. This month the tax code and changes got me thinking and learning about electric cars. That session led to reading more about new cars. 

I love cars and yet, I realize the fastest, newest and shiniest are not usually necessary for transportation. With all the car advertisements and holiday sales, this is easy to forget.

The idea of electric cars has always been appealing to me. Tax benefits made many consumers take the plunge. But now the tax perks are gone, I am still pondering.

A call to my insurance agent about something unrelated got me talking about electric cars. (I told you I liked them!) His perspective is “consider the practical aspects of owning one.” For example, check with your insurance company for what the insurance will cost. These vehicles are heavier and repairs often more expensive, leading to more costly insurance coverage. And, be sure there are charging stations where you live.  

There are other options from gas to hybrid or better yet if you are city dweller, reevaluate owning a car. A recent article on a car free community is intriguing.

3. Take Time Out

Time out from from the world is extra critical these days. Try a few with mental breaks through movies, television, or creativity. This will help you turn off the news and the phones. “Time outs” are effective for young minds and emotions. Why not adults?  

One way to do this is to keep up your creativity. I have been writing. You can feed your spirit by doing your art, whether painting, sewing or woodworking. Whatever does the trick will lower your stress and keep your positive energy flowing.

May they save you from ruminating about the state of the world temporarily as they have helped me.

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Still preoccupied with the stock market gyrations?

I will write more about it in the future. For now, check out my blog from another springtime that had many reeling:

St Patrick and Riding the Wave of the Stock Market

Share the Love!

Share the Love

Roses. Chocolates. Red Hearts. Tis the season that is celebrating love.  

What if we looked beyond the cards and special dinners of Valentine’s Day? Consider the other ways to show your love. I have just the gift for you; Something lasting and meaningful.  

Here is how this CFP wants you to demonstrate your love this month:

1. Have a Well Done Estate Plan. 

What does that mean? You have created a legal plan. One that is written down and documented to cover the realities of life from illness to death. Not because you are sick or dying or some kind of pessimist but because you want your wishes followed through and desire ease of transition for those left behind. Create Peace of Mind, sign an estate plan.

2. Have Cash to Offset Stress of Life Events.

No matter who you are or where you live, life throws curve balls sometimes. Financial curve balls usually coincide with life events which are unexpected. Building a cash account just to sustain you and your loved ones during such times is loving for yourself. This money cushion is registering the reality of self-love. Knowing that whatever happens, you will not encounter added financial stress. Promote calm, have cash. 

3. Review Your Investments Every year.

Investments all too often are left to the set it and forget it approach. In our busy lives, we figure if it has been working for the past decade there is no reason to mess with a good thing. However, in that decade, our lives have changed. We need to make sure our investments are appropriately invested for our age and goals. They change and so should our investments. Rather than leave it in the professional hands alone, be sure to check in at least annually to align your investments with who you are today.

Live in the present, check-in with your investments accordingly.

Yes, the above steps are harder to do than stopping at a store. The flipside of those glossy cards is true care which inspires action. The time and energy involved focus on something long-lasting and deeper like your love.

Life changes. When you are prepared, your life can weather any movements in life or the stock market.

Time well spent is time on yourself and your financial life. The above will help you, which leads to helping your loved ones. You will be planning for your financial well-being and that of your loved one for the long-term.

Peace of mind and heart will radiate love for yourself and expand to others. The kind of demonstration of love that lasts long after the chocolates are gone.

Go ahead do the visual expressions of love. Buy the flowers. Sign a card. And make the grand gesture of loving gratitude to your loved ones.

Forget Your Financial Resolutions! Do this Instead!

Your financial consciousness will improve and continue to improve by taking care of what you have. 

Studies tell us that people quit their resolutions early in the year. A Quicken study learned that 63% of us spend money to aim to accomplish their goals for the new year. Financially, there is one step you can take to improve your financial situation and understanding. Do it this month. And then every January.  

Creating Your Net Worth for each and every December 31st will give you a sense of your personal financial situation. And it does not cost money! 

This is a one page summary of your financial life that too many people seldom consider. Having the information at your fingertips of your investments, savings, and debt at one point every year allow you to see progress. More than that, the summary will show you what you want or need to change in the coming year.

Here are the steps to make your own net worth:

1. Decide if you are going to do it by hand, spreadsheet or a form. (I will share a form to start you off on my blog, here.)

2. Gather your financial information. You may need passwords, connectivity or recent statements from the mail.

3. Using the same date for the financial details as much as possible, begin to list all your assets. This includes the smallest checking or savings account, the savings bonds, retirement accounts and stock accounts. Plus include a car or home if you have them.

4. Find your debts as of December 31st. Your car loan, credit card, personal loan and mortgage are all debts you owe to someone else or a financial institution.

5. Total the assets. Total the debts.

6. Subtract the debts from the assets. This is your net worth. The number may be positive or negative. For example, when I finished graduate school, I had a negative net worth despite my MBA. If that is the case for you, remind yourself it is temporary.

With this information at hand, make your financial decisions for the year.  

Thinking of taking a trip that may need to go on your credit card? Review your net worth first.

Debating about how much to put in a 401k at your new job? One look at your net worth will show where you stand for retirement and may motivate you to increase your contribution.

Looking to apply for a mortgage? Updating your net worth will prepare you for the paperwork.

A Net Worth statement raises your financial savvy about yourself. This one piece of paper will grant you more consciousness around your money than all the programs that guarantee to improve your situation for a fee. 

Once you have an understanding of your financial assets and debts, you are better informed to make all sorts of financial decisions. And you have one financial tool and system to carry forward into the rest of your financial life.

More on Resolutions:

Here are some studies on New Year’s Resolutions:

• From the National Library of Medicine

• 2018 Quicken Survey

AI Shared this with me…

Research on New Year's resolutions shows that while they can be effective for some, most people don't keep them. Some factors that contribute to this include: 

• Lack of a plan: People often make resolutions without a clear plan for how to achieve them 

• Pressure: People may feel pressured to make resolutions, especially women and Gen Z 

• Negative language: Resolutions framed in negative language can make it harder to stick to them 

Who makes New Year's resolutions? 

• Young adults are most likely to make resolutions

• There are only modest differences in who makes resolutions by race, ethnicity, gender, or partisanship

What are the most popular resolutions? 

• Improving physical health

• Saving more money

• Exercising more

• Eating healthier

• Being happy

• Losing weight

How can you make your resolutions more effective? Frame your resolutions in positive language, Set goals that provide direction and purpose, and Find ways to stay accountable. 

Five Steps For Reviewing the Year Gone & One For The New Year

To Know Where You Are Going, You Need to Know Where You Have Been:

5 Steps to Review the Past and A Bonus One to Move You Forward!

1. Gathering Medical Receipts

Separating the medical expenses falls into different categories. For me, medical costs include my deductible and for certain other medical reasons like eye care. Knowing that total helps me plan what I may be spending for 2025.

In your case, you may use that number to get reimbursement from a Medical Savings Account at work. Or to plan funding for your Health Savings Account for next year.

I did it this week as I can confirm I did not miss any as most appointments are fresh in my mind. Most of all, I am ready to start my taxes when that time comes. Having the totals easily available make taxes less stressful. (Notice I did not say not stressful.) And who does not need lower stress?

2. Finishing Up Business Details: Expense Reports

I sometimes pay for business expenses in cash, rather than my business debit card or credit card. I am great at keeping the receipts but not so great at reimbursing myself. This past week I sat down with all the receipts and scraps of paper. Then, I categorized and totaled and submitted them for payment to MoneyPeace. Okay, me, but you get the point. Details matter. And add up.

With the computerized systems corporations have now, your expense reports are easier; however, you still must do them. Spend an hour and see what money you have coming to you.

3. Creating a Net Worth Statement

Keeping one page of my financial assets helps me maintain understanding of where my money is and how to find it. Seems basic; however, every year when I fill in the blanks of assets and liabilities, I learn something new.

I look at my holdings and balances more closely at this time of year. I discover which investment is doing well. I learn how much I have tucked away for my goals like travel or a new vehicle or home improvements. I look closer at how I used my credit card and what bits may be lingering.

By setting aside a bit of extra time to review all sides of my financial life, I have a complete picture of what has happened during the year. Some of the information is a review and some a revelation.

4. Confirming Charitable Donations

I made a list and checked it twice. Now I know what I gave and to whom. I also know which charities I like to support that I may have missed this year.

For those who give exclusively via one credit card, you would tell me it is easy: They give you the total. I like my deeper dive because I see what matters to me, where I took action and where I may like to contribute next.

Yesterday, I took to a reputable donation center some clothes and housewares. Cleaning out a few things I did not need, feels good. Passing reusables on to others feels great! As a bonus, I got a receipt for taxes.

5. Review my Accomplishments

This past year featured several diverse highlights for me - from a train trip across Canada to a wedding in a castle to speaking for a wonderful law firm in Kansas City.

Writing continues to be one of my loves. And it is a treat when one of the pieces that get published is a personal story. Recently, I had one published complete with a picture of me from childhood in a Christmas dress. Just for fun, I share it here.

Bonus: Resolutions or Intentions

Resolutions no longer resonate with me. Since I was in my twenties, I have set an intention for each year. This is the time of year it comes to me. I give it time to unfold. Then, I aim to use that as a check point when making decisions throughout the year. 2025’s is still brewing.

Some past ones were: Healthy & Happy, Life is Good, Grateful. You get the idea.

What are you intending for 2025?

None of the above takes much time. All of it requires quiet time to yourself. Why not take an hour and take one step from the above list? See how it feels. You may just want to start on the other steps on the list.

May you have many reasons to celebrate this turning of the clock to the New Year.

Thoughts on Gratitude and Thanksgiving

Thoughts on Gratitude and Thanksgiving

Today as the world spins around us and so many events and circumstances are out of our control. We need to remember what we have to appreciate. Gratitude feeds our sense of abundance.

Maybe we have special memories of Thanksgiving or favorite foods or moments of gratitude.

Memories of favorite foods bring me smiles. One strong memory I have as a child is Nanie Sheehan cutting the turkey in our kitchen each Thanksgiving. She would threaten anyone who came around with a stern look and point of the knife to stay away. Then, she would slip my brother and I a piece of warm turkey and even the crispy bacon if we asked. Delicious and warm, the turkey pre-dinner treat made us feel special.

Only today as an adult do I reflect to why my maternal grandmother cut the turkey on a holiday at her daughter’s house. She was of course, the matriarch. But where was my Dad? My Dad was working. We always waited for him to get home to eat. He literally would walk in through the back door and head right to the dining room to sit at the head of the table - Nanie claimed the opposite head seat.

Over the years, Thanksgiving was not so special to me because my Dad worked. Years later, my sisters were nurses and would be working, too. Later, my brother worked holidays. Dinner together meant starting early and eating slow so whoever was finishing up work would get to share the table. For me, the longer I sat at the table, the more I would eat. And that was not such a good thing. More was not better. Their shift work meant so many shifts that I did not enjoy the meal.

Then, I tried to change my focus. One November, I pulled out the family slides that we had not all seen in ages. I coordinated with my Mom for this post dinner activity: Reminiscing of all the good past times we were together. An activity beyond eating! I even asked my cousin whose family was joining us to grab some of their slides and bring them along to share.

At peace from squabbles or cleaning or all to separate rooms, we were together. The laughter and memories filled the darkened room. Though my brother had to miss the event that first year, the rest of us appreciated the moment. And a tradition was born.

Thanksgiving fills me with not only gratitude but fond memories and thoughts of kindness and sharing. The reality is we may not be able to join with those we love because of death or distance, but we have options to share our gratitude to them and our appreciation for the blessings in our life.

I am grateful to those I love who built those memories Join me in thankfulness. Or a new tradition.

Take the time for the Attitude of Gratitude:

1. List three things and people to whom you are grateful today.

1.

2.

3.

Why not do ten?

The first things that come to my mind are the person who taught me to tell time and my cousin who taught me how to tie my shoe! You may have in mind your first baseball coach, your favorite college professor, or first employer.

2. Be spontaneous and call or write one person who impacted your life. Let them know you are thinking of them.

3. Create a Thanksgiving tale:

Tell others of something you are thankful for in your life – where you live, your friends, or a recent vacation. Start a conversation around the Thanksgiving dinner table about what they appreciate. With all that food on the table, there will be plenty of time to share gratitude.

Have a Peaceful Thanksgiving!

A special thank you to all those who work to keep us safe – the First Responders, Firefighters, Police Officers, Military members and those that keep us healthy – Doctors, Nurses, and Medical Staff. In addition, thanks to all those who labor to keep our world working, even on a holiday.

Know Thyself As You Learn and Grow

Our world is changing and so must we. Your first step, and mine, is to forgive yourself for past missteps – financial and otherwise.

These are stressful times. From a powerful election season to natural disasters, no one and nowhere is immune. This is also a personally challenging time for me.

At the beginning of the month, I got the message to slow down. A broken foot will do that.

In order to grow as human beings, we need to understand our reactions and tendencies. And accept our shortcomings while attempting to improve them. Much like I know I can be short with friends, family and others when I am stressed out – I know I make financial errors when I am busy, overwhelmed and lacking rest.

When I am so preoccupied that I may react without a kind or human touch, I apologize to those I have offended. Because I have learned what tendencies I have, I do it less today than twenty years ago. And correct quicker. When it comes to the fleeting mismanagement of money, I am disrespecting the person I most love and value – myself. And this happens when I am stressed, overcommitted or grieving.

When my finances go haywire, even for a fleeting month or two, I equally need to forgive myself and ask for help. Whatever the reason, I need to pause to give myself attention before I give my finances attention. Acknowledge and accept what happened.

I want to share my process to see if it helps you:

First, I take the time to process the underlying hurt and pain, then I can attempt to get track.

Next, I clear the air by understanding what I could do differently.

Then, I correct the situation with some attention, planning, and paperwork.

Have you made past financial mistakes? Or perhaps made decisions you wish you had not? Welcome to the club. You got this. I got this. Financial missteps is not an uncommon situation. You can fix it by looking internally, then understanding what happened and then move ahead.

All it takes is one step, one day at a time to improve any situation. Most importantly, put parameters in place to prevent it from happening again. I no longer go willy nilly and have piles of piles of bills paper or digitally adding up. I have stop gaps whether credit card limits or cash restrictions – one reason I love cash.

For me, clearly the message is slow down. When I take the time to stay present, I am much more organized and detailed oriented. My financial plans chug along smoothly. When I am busy and overwhelmed, I am thinking of the future and leave a trail of disarray. That may result in unpaid bills, overspending or unnecessary debt, despite my knowing better. I am human. We all are.

I know myself. I know finances. And I know some extra time invested will get me pack on track, as it will with you. Just clear the self-judgement and forgive yourself so you will be ready for the next step.

Keep on learning and growing. When it comes to finances, knowing yourself is first in the line of money management.

Live as if you were to die tomorrow.
Learn as if you were to live forever.

- Mahatma Gandhi

Going Out Singing: Retiring

Olivia Mellan

Singing is a joy, a passion for Olivia Mellan. In college she loved being in plays and creating spoof songs. This coed came of age at a time of the Vietnam protests and women’s rights movement just as Ozzie and Harriet had wound down on television.  

The world of finance, was “A Man’s World.”  Facts and figures dominated. Investments and Wall Street were private affairs. Isolated from women and any discussions beyond the precise tangible numbers, there was no room for a conversation involving feelings.

Enter Olivia Mellan. She is the forbearer of a movement that tied together emotions and money.  She realized that no one had touched on money in the therapeutic process. And certainly financial professionals were not talking on the emotional level. There were some people whose only emotional reference around money was greed. 

She recognized that Money was the last taboo that therapists were talking about in their emotional exploration with clients. As a result, she instigated groundbreaking conversations in the field in Money Psychology. Money Psychology is the process of acknowledging your emotions interwoven with money in order to change behavior around finances to improve them. She felt that money needed to be part of the therapists’ conversation with their clients. 

After the success of an initial workshop, she realized she was on to something. More workshops followed as she incorporated the technique in her practice. Then, five successful books. 

She is a pioneer in tying two worlds together in a way that resonated for millions of her readers, listeners at her speeches and consulting clients. She is a professional through and through and built a career out of something new at a time before millennials and the internet. She knew from interactions with people, they were uncomfortable with money and needing a different approach.  

This was not on a planned career path, rather she has had a windy journey to this year. No one had heard of money psychology. Previous to 1982, the connection between emotions and money was not discussed or dissected. Olivia Mellan was in a PhD program for French and Linguistics and had not much interest in money.  

Yet this woman impacted me, other CFP’s and hundreds of thousands of readers of her books. I have recommended her work and books for years. Now I have had the privilege of knowing her for the past several years.  

Before Behavioral Economics became a subject in business schools, Olivia Mellan was there. How big a movement was she leading? She made it on Oprah before she had a book published. Need I say more?

Fast forward to 2018, Olivia Mellan is the groundbreaker of the connection of money psychology. She opened individuals and financial planners worldwide to the concept. She integrated two fields in a way that no other professional had.  

Now, she is retiring, leaving behind in her wake a new approach to money for the finance professionals, therapists and individuals around the world. The amazing thing is that she moved in a direction that felt right. Without a business plan or mentor to lead her, she studied, reflected and wrote on a topic that was ripe for research. Olivia was drawn to this because she recognized a space in the therapeutic process, which carried over into other areas of life.

What was that path that lead this theatre performer, creative singer and writer of spoof songs to move to the limelight of a new stage that brought with it bestselling books, Oprah appearance and presentations across the country? She credits two points in her life and two people’s support as the main motivators. And both were unplanned and unrelated to what her dreams and aspirations were.

As Olivia tells it, she had two defining moments in her career. The first as a doctoral student. Half way through her thesis writing, at a meeting with her thesis advisor, he suggested that she become a therapist.  She had finished all her course work. She had half her thesis done in French and linguistics.   

At age 27, she was willing to redirect herself and consider therapy as a career. That defining moment brought her to the place she needed to be. The decision meant more schooling, studying and starting at the bottom and not finishing her thesis that she had worked so hard on. She embraced it and followed her heart. After opening her practice, she always had a full schedule of clients. She had found her calling after taking a risk and huge leap.

Her second defining moment is the clarifying the concept that there was a need to discuss emotions and money therapeutically. Her friend, Michael Goldberg, said, “Money because money is the last taboo in the therapy office and life in general.” His words, as Olivia tells it, “created a lightbulb moment in my head where I realized in the therapy office there are ghosts of family members sitting all around the room – my ghosts and the clients ghosts.” Money is a part of life and subject important to address in therapy, not deflect. Her mission began knowing that “We as therapists should create a safe place to talk about this topic.”

She listened to her internal urging and her work began. This work was not only with clients but also delving deeper into studying the concepts and emotions around money.  

As a good student of developmental psychology, she credits nature and nurture to career choice and windy path there. She says, “I inherited a gene from my Dad – Do what you love and the money will follow. He was a judge and lawyer.” So by getting the gene and learning by her environment she knew what was most important.  

Her philosophy, also fitting her career, is “Trust the Process.” If a door closed, another one opened. Her PhD program almost finished, she bravely moved on. “The therapeutic work called out to me.” And the focus on money came soon after her career.

The process was organic and mysterious. That same organic process is at work as she leaves behind a career of 42 years. Some health issues, a move and surrounded by her loving husband, Michael who is retired, she decided it was time.  

How is she going out? The guild – her team of psychologists where she shares and grows and learns in DC are having a party for her. At their last meeting together, they suggested the party center on songs and music. Olivia has one request to Sing together some of the good old Leonard Bernstein tunes and oldies but goodies like “When you Wish Upon A Star.”  

The words may be changed to reflect the work of the life of a woman who impacted the world in a fine, subtle and yet powerful way. Frank Sinatra’s “I did it My Way” may be the song of the day.

Congratulations Olivia!

Learn One New Thing Every Day!

“Learn one new thing every day.” My Dad always said that and would ask at different times what we had learned. 

Today I want to share what I have been doing so that you have a range of choices – articles, podcasts and future speaking so you can learn more about how to create MoneyPeace.

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Podcast:

I had the opportunity to be on Wes Moss’s Retire Sooner Podcast. We hardly talked about retirement! Instead, we covered a broad range of financial and emotional topics near and dear to my heart. When you have a few minutes or the full fifty minutes you can listen here.

Already a subscriber to his podcast? Listen for me on the July 11th program.

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Financial Expert:

This month I was sought out as a financial expert. Catch my name and advice in print with these articles I was recently quoted in:

• The Average Retirement Age for Men vs. Women in 2024 - GoBankingRates.com

• Should You Draw $1K From Your Retirement Account? - US News

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Monday Money Minutes:

Check out some of my Monday Money Minutes. They are available on my MoneyPeace Facebook page, at my blog or on Instagram. 

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Articles

Of course, I have continued to write articles and offer these two – one for fun and one for your retirement planning consideration:

• Opinion: ‘I will work forever. I need the coverage.’ Waiting for Medicare? There are ways to retire before 65 and still get healthcare. - MarketWatch

• Ode to a Clock Radio - Next Avenue

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Getting Ready to Speak

I have been getting ready with research and updated presentation notes for my upcoming speaking gigs. In September I will be speaking for Financial Behavior Keynote Group on “The Art of Selling a Business.” 

I will also be travelling to Kansas City to speak on “Financial Wellness” for a corporate retreat.

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Lifelong learning is underrated. May you continue to learn one new thing every day whether about personal finance, life or love. 

Summer Time Ease May Lead to Abundance!

Money is an inside job. How you feel matters. I have heard and read that extensively.

Abundance is a state of mind. When we know we are contributing to the world it is easier to feel abundant. All sorts of people experience this through their professional work or volunteering.

They know sometimes it is not the big trip, the expensive car or the once in a lifetime concert event. We can find joy in the simple. For me it can be found in nature, children, and time to play.

Yesterday, I had one of those peak experiences that make me feel more grounded, connected and valued. Abundance from the inside out. A mini reunion of sorts for college friends who enjoyed a day at the lake only a car ride away from home. We laughed. We ate. We drink an array of beverages. We reminisced just a bit. Mostly we reveled in the beauty of the day. I felt restored and blest.

This morning, I noticed how good I felt. I relived in the memories in my mind but knew there was something more brewing from the afternoon of leisure. I had been doing something because I wanted to …no reason, no talk of careers or chores or responsibilities. Simply appreciating the beautiful day and the company.

This made me think. I need more time to just play – whether for a day or afternoon or moment. In our goal-oriented world, that is often overlooked. I know that post-Covid, I have lost some of that spontaneity and openness. As adults we are encouraged to be responsible.

I feel lighter, thinner and happier based on the fun of yesterday. It was definitely a “Play Date” and made me want more play dates. Surrounding oneself in the energy and love and hugs of friendship. Plus the added nonsense of fun and connections. 

I am going on my own playdate this week. Grabbing my bike and going for a ride to nowhere.

Wealth and abundance and joy are inside jobs. What are you doing to take care of your insides? Here are some tips to feel abundant:

Start with what you have:

Be grateful for the little things of the day. The computer you are reading this on – even if it is borrowed or at the library. The clothes on your back.

Think when you are most happy: 

Make a list of activities, people you like to spend time with and activities that feed your spirit. Perhaps being in nature, playing sports, getting dressed up or enjoying movies bring you joy.

Do one thing this week because you want to;

not because you have to or because you need to take care of someone else. Spend a delicious frivolous moment or afternoon on you.

Notice how you feel the next day. 

Does it bring a smile to your face? A lightness to your step? Keep playing with these steps and ideas each day. 

When you value the flow of life, your abundance has more time to catch up with you.  

Enjoy your day!

Happy April Fool's Day!

Happy April Fool's Day!

I started on April Fool’s Day to remember to keep my sense of humor.  I also did not know if this whole business plan would work.  I certainly did not know thirty years later how my life, my work, and MoneyPeace would evolve.  I am so grateful to all you readers, clients over the years and other planning professionals who appreciate my approach to money.

This week, I was reflecting on  MoneyPeace history as part of a registration form with a speaker’s bureau. This was such a gift!  I am appreciative of all the places I have been and of those people who responded to my work.  I was reminded that I love speaking and am ready to do more. 

I do not know where I will be in thirty years. For today, I want to continue to write, speak and spread MoneyPeace.  So, watch for more blogs, articles, email newsletters and videos.

What I Learned from My Irish Family

The roots of my Irish heritage and money are complicated. In Ireland, coins were used for centuries. Often the coins represented reigning kings. In the twelfth century, the British took over and ruled Ireland. This included their money, their banks, and systems, imposing the English system.

The Irish learned not to trust the banks or the money that was used for exchange during the time of the British rule. Though valid currency, the system was English, the language was English and there were so many restrictions on the natives, that many natives were leery of using their banks. These feelings ran deep and settled in many a family over the generations even in an independent country. 

The Republic of Ireland became independent in 1921, leaving six counties in the north still part of England. In 1927, the Republic issued their own currency. That currency changed with the advent of the Euro in 2002.

Some of my relatives emigrated in the 1920’s and would have had money in the US banks when they failed during the depression. They lost their hard earned money, so the feeling carried down through the ancestors about money and financial systems are complex.

My ancestors learned from their experiences. (Yours did too.) I learned many things from what they had to live through on both sides of the ocean. They were an industrious, practical bunch. Land and homeownership were key to success. Even generations later, feelings around money can be complicated because of a “rich” history of happenings. Sometimes what were their experiences, though no longer relevant to me, make it into family lore. Sorting this all out adds a bit of complexity to what I really need to learn.

My profession is about creating solid quality of life while living in peace around your money. Although knowledgeable on the facts and US rules on the money and tax system, I was taught that there is more to life than money alone.

This is what I learned from my family:

• Help Others: There is always someone who is worse off than you.

• Buy Quality: From clothes to cars to home goods, be sure you buy value.

• Repair It: Do not go and buy new, which takes money and hard work. Fix it.

• Get Educated: From vocations, academics or a lesson in cooking, learning is invaluable.

• Enjoy Music and Dancing: They are a fun release – and fun matters.

• Maintain Community: Connections improve the quality of your life as well as your neighborhood.

• Buy the Best Health Insurance: One cannot put a price on health.

We all learn consciously and unconsciously from our families of origin. We take away the good and the unhealthy financial habits. This month, ponder your roots and learning. What have you learned?

Picked up not good financial habits? Adapt and adjust. As adults, we can choose what we want to change.

Do one thing to honor your ancestors. I will be donating to an Irish charity.

What will you do?  Cook up something traditional. Create a family gathering. Simply connect with a family member.

Whether you are Irish, Spanish, Italian, Mexican, Canadian, Greek, a mix or a pure bred American, we are all human and survived thanks to the strong good character of our ancestors. Celebrate one aspect of your history this month.

Here is a bit of Irish music by The Chieftains: Will You Go Lassie Go (aka Blooming Heather; aka Wild Mountain Thyme)

This CFP Wishes for My Loved Ones

Dear Loved Ones,

There are many questions you have asked me over the years. Despite the fact I cannot give specific advice without knowing one’s full situation, many of your questions required one simple step. 

I never know if you did them or not. I care and am concerned that you are in good hands financially. I prefer you avoid a financial situation that could be fixed with a bit of pre-planning, rather than scrambling after the fact.  

I seldom hear the follow up. I care. And because we are friends first, I am not the professional you work with, I do not ask. 

Today I am wondering if:

Your Retirement Beneficiaries are Correct: 

Longtime partners told me, “Oh yeah, we never changed those from family members. But our families know who to give it to.” By law, the money goes to immediate legal family. If they chose to then pass it on to a partner, there are potential taxes that may diminish those funds. I hope you have designated your partner by now.  

Life Insurance Beneficiaries Updated:

A young recently married couple told me, “We were so busy with our wedding planning and honeymoon, we never updated our life insurance and company benefits. This will go to our spouse automatically now that we are married, right?” No, no, no. You need to make the changes on your policies and with your company. Easy enough to do today. Get on it.

You Have an Estate Plan to Match Your Current Life:

Our lives constantly change: we move, we have children, our assets grow, we have grandchildren, we marry. Too people many make major shifts and leave their former will in place. They often forget or do not understand that you need a recent Power of Attorney for your finances and Health Care Proxy. I do hope after you made the move out of state, you followed up with a new estate plan in your state of residence. 

You Have Assigned A Guardian for Your Children:

This is designated in your estate plan. Otherwise, their guardian many be your next of kin or appointed by the court. A legal guardian is responsible for the health and financial care of a child until “legal majority” in the state of residence. Be Kind to your children. Create a will with your wishes and a lawyer to carry them out.

You have Left a Paper Trail. Or Digital Trail:

Being in good financial shape with an estate plan and well organized records is great. If no one can find them when you fall ill or pass on, then they are of little use to the people who need them most. I hope by now you have told someone how to find your paper trail, making it easier on your loved ones at a dire time. 

Leave behind a legacy of love.

This CFP Wishes for My Loved Ones

My Valentine:

1. Have a Well Done Estate Plan, Have Peace of Mind

2. Have Cash to Offset Stress of Life Events

3. Review Your Investments Every year.  

Life changes. Have that balance of stocks, bonds, growth and value investments. Create an estate plan. Keep a cash account. Then you can weather any movements in life or the stock market

What are Annuities?

Question: “I just got an inheritance and a financial person suggested I purchase an annuity with $90,000. We were going to expand our home. I do want to be smart and do something wise for the long term with the money. What is an annuity? Is it a good investment?”

Christine’s Answer:

Good for you for wanting to learn about money.  

First, the annuity answer. An annuity is an insurance contract. There are many types and forms from fixed annuities to variable annuities which have an investment component. They are backed up the insurance company that sells them. If this financial person only suggested an annuity, then they may only sell annuities. Annuity is a product with a large commission for the sellers typically. If an investment person does not offer you more options, they may not be working in your best interests. 

Expanding your home sounds like an option, but do you have a financial plan? Use that inheritance wisely by consulting an objective financial professional first. You can meet with them on an hourly basis and they can evaluate if you have a safety account, how to manage any debt you may have and plan for your future. They can also further explain annuities and other options to best serve you. To contact one that does not sell products reach out to the Garrett Planning Network.

Once you are more educated you can decide your next steps.