As a stay-at-home mom, taking care of your family is no easy feat. It’s a 24/7 job that can take a toll on your health, especially if you struggle with weekly, debilitating migraines. The reality is, many of us are not just dealing with the demands of family, but also the added stress of financial insecurity. The book "First Steps to Wealth" by Dani Johnson sheds light on how we may have been set up to fail financially, and how this affects our health. In this blog post, we’ll explore why taking control of our finances is crucial for our overall well-being.
Let’s start by acknowledging the financial realities that many of us face. The average American household has credit card debt of over $8,000, while the median household income is just over $68,000. Additionally, the cost of healthcare and education continues to rise, making it difficult to keep up with expenses. These financial pressures can lead to increased stress and anxiety, which can contribute to physical and mental health problems.
One of the key issues highlighted in "First Steps to Wealth" is the idea that our financial struggles may not necessarily be our fault. We’re bombarded with messages from banks, credit card companies, and advertisers telling us to spend money on things we don’t actually need. It’s easy to fall into the trap of living beyond our means when we’re constantly told that material possessions are the key to happiness.
Another factor that contributes to our financial struggles is a lack of education about money management. Most of us have never been taught how to create a budget, manage our finances, or invest our money wisely. The good news is that it’s never too late to learn. By investing the time and effort to educate ourselves about finances, we can take control of our financial futures and reduce our stress levels.
So, what are some practical steps we can take to improve our financial and overall health? The first step is to create a budget. This may seem daunting, but it’s essential for understanding how much money is coming in and going out each month. Once you have a clear picture of your finances, you can identify areas where you may be overspending and make adjustments accordingly.
Another important step is to prioritize saving. Whether it’s setting aside money for emergencies, retirement, or a future expense, saving money is key to reducing financial stress. Even setting aside a small amount of money each month can add up over time and give you a sense of security and control.
Investing in your education about finances is also crucial. There are many resources available online, at your local library, or through financial advisors that can help you learn how to manage your money and invest wisely. By taking the time to educate yourself, you’ll be more confident in making financial decisions and creating a plan for your financial future.
As a stay-at-home mom with weekly migraines, the last thing you need is the added stress of financial insecurity. "First Steps to Wealth" highlights how we may have been set up to fail financially and how this impacts our health. By taking control of our finances, creating a budget, prioritizing saving, and investing in our financial education, we can improve our overall health and well-being. Remember, it’s never too late to take the first steps toward a brighter financial future.
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