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Have you ever stopped to consider how you learned to manage your finances. Are the decisions you are making with your money today setting you up for a stable future?  Many of us struggle to stay on top of our finances. Whether it’s not making enough or not managing what we have. These challenges can leave us feeling overwhelmed…and that stress. It’s real. According to a study, “Higher financial worries were significantly associated with higher psychological distress.” If you’ve ever found yourself anxious about paying that next bill or wondering how to stretch your paycheck further, you’re not alone. Honestly, this was a significant amount of my 20’s. But here’s the good news: learning how to manage your finances can greatly reduce unnecessary stress in your life.

Last month, I read a book ( )that unexpectedly transformed how I am thinking about my finances in the last quarter of the year! Though aimed at teens, its financial lessons hit home. As a millennial, I thought I had a decent grasp on money management. (Thanks to my uncle M sending me articles on investing, providing lessons on financial stewardship and consistently leading by example.) But the gems in this book pushed me into a year-end financial challenge that I hope to carry into the future. The book’s four core pillars—developing a money mindset, spending low, earning high, and investing wisely—are not just for teens. They are strategies that work for anyone aiming to take control of their finances and move toward financial stability.

Here’s a breakdown of the lessons I’ve adopted, and how you, too, can end the year on a stronger financial footing:

Money Management: Key Takeaways (AKA My 4th Quarter Plan)

1. Develop a Money Mindset
   The way you think about money matters. A lot. Cultivating a positive attitude toward money and believing you can control your financial future is key. Managing money is a skill—one you can learn and improve over time. This shift in mindset is crucial for long-term financial health.
2. Create a Budget
   A budget is the foundation of all good financial habits. By tracking your income and expenses, you gain a clear picture of where your money is going. From there, you can reduce unnecessary spending—those daily coffees or spontaneous shopping sprees—and redirect that cash toward your financial goals.
3. Spend Low
   In our social media-driven culture of “treat yourself,” mindful spending can feel like a buzzkill, but it’s the opposite. Prioritize needs over wants and trim expenses where you can. Finding deals and using coupons isn’t just for our parents—being smart about where your money goes is empowering.
4. Earn High
   Many of us aren’t earning as much as we’d like. Whether it’s negotiating a raise, picking up a side hustle, or finding ways to grow your skills, increasing your income is a game-changer. If you’ve got free time, consider part-time work or freelance gigs.
5. Invest Wisely
   Investing might seem daunting, but it’s one of the most important ways to build wealth. Start as early as possible to take advantage of compound interest, and make sure to diversify your investments to reduce risk. If you’re not sure where to start, reach out to a financial advisor—many banks offer free or affordable consultations.
6. Pay Yourself First
   Before you pay bills or spend money on anything else, set aside a portion of your income for savings. This ensures you’re consistently building a financial cushion and preparing for future goals, like buying a home, starting a business, saving for retirement or an emergency fund.
7. Manage Debt
   Debt can feel like a weight on your shoulders, but with the right strategy, you can lift that burden. Focus on paying off high-interest debt first, and if necessary, look into consolidating loans to lower your overall interest rates. The faster you knock out debt, the quicker you can work toward financial freedom.
8. Plan for the Future
   Whether your goals are big (buying a house) or small (taking that dream vacation), it’s important to create a financial plan. Setting clear, realistic goals and working toward them will help keep you motivated and on track.

By adopting these strategies, you can master your money and reduce financial stress. Financial management is not just about numbers—it’s about creating peace of mind and building the life you want. So, as we near the end of the year, take a step toward financial stability. It’s never too late to improve how you handle your money. Shout out to Dr. Robert Baines Jr. for writing a book that sparked this journey for me. I urge you to invest in the book…and get one for a teen you know. His insights aren’t just for teens; they’re for anyone looking to build a strong financial foundation. 

So, what are you waiting for? Your financial freedom starts today.