Aren't You Glad It's Over?
Of course, I'm talking about the election. Finally, we can get back to no more political ads, no more debates, and our Facebook feeds can start to go back to normal. Maybe. Or at least this is a new normal…
No matter who you voted for, there is an air of uncertainty around us. Changes were going to happen and now that the decision has been made, we all have to wait to see what those changes are going to be and how they'll end up affecting us personally.
Today, though, I want to remind you that no matter what, you don't have to let the emotions associated with the political climate derail you. You are still in control of your personal economic future.
I want you to hold on to your power. Do not be discouraged. Don't let doubt and uncertainty creep in to your ability to take charge of your personal destiny.
To help you stay in control, I wanted to provide you with some reassurance and ideas that will give you the confidence to continue on and stay on track to success for your financial future.
1. Make sure you have an emergency fund. Things happen. Make your emergency fund a priority so that you can weather the storm. Having this cushion helps you stay in control and have the assurance that you can continue to live your life on your terms. It's amazing what a safety net like an emergency fund can do for easing stress of unexpected situations.
2. Actively look for ways you can improve your financial standing. Where can you make extra income? Do you work a second job? Can you negotiate a raise? Is it time to seek a new job or career that will provide more opportunity? Are you taking advantage of tax breaks and retirement options available to you? When you're shopping, do you stop and make sure you're getting the best deal. Always be on the lookout for how you can maximize the dollars coming in and minimize the dollars going out.
3. Stay in a mode of action. When we allow emotions to control us, we can often get stuck in confusion, sadness, anger, or frustration. Taking action and moving forward gives us hope. When you make decisions to pay off a debt, the progress you make gives you hope. The pay off gives you reason to celebrate. Your successes encourage you to take more actions for more positive changes. Make sure that you stay in action to perpetuate a positive cycle in your own life.
Keep these three thoughts in mind and you will maintain the control of your personal financial future. We live in an amazing country with amazing people. As individuals, we have incredible opportunities and it can be difficult to keep sight of that when there's a lot of divisive drama around. If that drama is distracting you, turn off the tv or shut down the social media and circle in to focus on you and your immediate needs. Give yourself the space to take control and shield from the drama. Doing this is probably the best gift you can give yourself today. Trust me - your future self will thank you!
