Women tend to live longer, stop working at times during their careers and earn less than men. For all these reasons and more, it’s important for women as well as men to be financially literate. Our debt counselors are celebrating International Women’s Day by sharing these financial tips and resources.
Here are financial tips for International Women’s day!
Celebrate International Women’s Day with Financial Literacy
In any season of life, a woman can be empowered with a strong understanding of personal finances. While there are many nuances and complex areas of finance, having a few core financial principles under your belt can help you to navigate through the tough parts.
Let’s take a look at some key concepts to build your financial toolbox on International Women’s Day.
7 Key Financial Principles for International Women’s Day
Spend Less Than You Earn. I think this is the Golden Rule. By committing to this concept in your finances, there will be room to accomplish goals, stay out of debt and save money. It does require that you track your income, expenses, and spending diligently. Try this Budgeting Worksheet to get started.
Make Saving a Priority. Saving is so important, but the results don’t happen overnight. Keeping saving in mind will not only control spending, but avoid debt as well since you will be prepared. It’s also a good reminder about forecasting retirement needs and how long that can take.
Debt Isn’t Required. Like many Americans, I grew up thinking credit card debt and living paycheck-to-paycheck was normal. Thankfully, this is not true. Remember to spend less than you earn and make saving a priority. So instead of going into debt over a large purchase, you can save for it first.
It’s Never Too Early to think about Retirement. Compound interest takes time to…compound. After years and years, your investment will build and build. All investors have these charts in their offices that will tell you the younger you are, the more your investment will make for you by the time you need to retire. Listen to them!
Write Down Your Budget & Goals. There is nothing worse than having undefined and unachievable goals. You can’t get anywhere without knowing where you are going.
Work as a Team. If you are in a serious relationship or married, it’s critical to discuss finances with one another. You and your partner come from different backgrounds, philosophies and financial standings. There may be some unspoken debt that comes with anxiety, shame or fear of rejection. No matter how good your relationship is, anything can be soured by not working together on finances.
Protect Your Assets. Insurance, identity theft protection and estate planning are very important actions to take. Protect all your hard work now and for the future.
If you’re struggling to pay off debt, ACCC can help. Schedule a free credit counseling session with us today.
