Money Talk

Are you feeling a little queasy? We’ve been on a never-ending rollercoaster this year, and it's only May. Market volatility has stirred up a mix of emotions for us all — anxiety, uncertainty, and maybe even a little bit of doom-scrolling.

Take a breath. Not a shallow one — a deep, intentional inhale and exhale. Protect your peace, and resist the urge to refresh the non-stop headlines.

What you can do — because now is always a good time — is make sure your financial house is in order.

Your Financial Blueprint

Think about where you are today and the journey to your ultimate financial destination. What do you need now? What’s coming up next? And what are you building for the long haul?

Here’s a quick breakdown to plan for today and the future that I use, and it might work for you too:

Cash: Money you can access right now — emergency fund, money market accounts, savings accounts.

We all need an emergency fund. Consider this as your financial safety net — money you can grab immediately. Have a set amount to cover essential expenses like rent or mortgage, groceries, bills, and those lovely, surprise expenses life loves to throw at us. How much? The typical recommendation of 3-6 months may not be enough, especially in our current economic climate. Aiming for ~6-9 months and adjusting based on your situation, maybe a safer option. Bonus tip: Park those emergency funds in a high-yield savings account so you can actually earn some interest while it sits there doing its thing.

Income: Money you’ll need in the near future — for planned expenses or short-term goals over the next ~3-5 years.

These are the financial needs you know are coming soon, within a few years: a big purchase, a move, paying down debt, or a career pivot. Consider options like high-yield savings accounts, CDs, or a brokerage account for investing. The goal: have your money working for you, but still within arm’s reach when you need it.

Growth: Money you’re setting aside for the long haul — retirement, long-term wealth building, and those dream-big goals.

This is your future money — the funds that grow over time, that you don’t touch, so you can live comfortably in retirement. Take full advantage of your employer’s retirement plan and match (because hello, free money!). Also, consider IRAs, and HSAs (an HSA can double as long-term investments if you don’t need them for current healthcare costs). Brokerage accounts are another great option here, offering flexibility and solid growth potential.

Pay attention to taxes: Knowing the difference between pre-tax and post-tax accounts can save you headaches (and dollars) later.

Think about building or bumping up your emergency fund. Find a few minutes to jot down your upcoming financial needs and see if your savings and investments line up with your goals and timeline.

This isn’t about perfection — it’s about progress and having a clear, flexible plan for your Now, Next, and Later.

Why Your Mindset Pays Dividends

Let’s keep it real — money management can trigger some serious emotions. Self-doubt, comparison, and frustration because you feel behind. But let’s be clear: the only person whose financial story matters is yours. Watch your own pockets, not the highlight reel you think others are living.

Start small. Where do you have opportunities to make little shifts?

Differentiate your want-to-haves from your need-to-haves.

Save a set amount before you spend each payday.

Cancel those dusty old memberships you forgot you had or really need.

Gamify your savings — create challenges, trackers, or even a little vision board. Visualization really works…I know!

Financial stability isn’t just about numbers — it’s about habits.

Community Keeps You Accountable

Surround yourself with a financial support squad. That could be a professional financial planner, savvy friends, or your go-to newsletters and podcasts (hi 👋). Regularly share, listen, learn, and act together. Financial planning feels a lot less intimidating when you realize everyone’s figuring it out as they go.

Tiny, consistent steps turn into big, lasting rewards.

A few podcasts I keep in rotation: Suze Orman’s Women and Money, Networth and Chill with your Rich BFF, and Our Rich Journey. A good read: The Psychology of Money by Morgan Housel.

Looking Ahead

Inspired? Up to the challenge, and ready to make some money moves?!

What’s one small step you’re going to take this week to boost your financial security? Trim a bill? Begin building or bumping up your Now Money fund? Finally open that high-yield savings account?

Remember — small steps equal big rewards.

Until next time — be a good HUMAN✨