Achieving Balance and Inner Peace: Exploring the 7 Essential Pillars of Self-Care
Are you constantly feeling overwhelmed and burnt out? Do you long for balance and inner peace in your life? Look no further – in this article, we will explore the 7 essential pillars of self-care that can help you achieve just that. Self-care is not just about bubble baths and face masks; it goes much deeper than that. It's about taking care of your physical, emotional, and mental well-being to create a harmonious and fulfilling life. In this comprehensive guide, we will delve into each of the seven pillars of self-care: physical health, mental health, emotional well-being, spirituality, relationships, personal development, and leisure. We will discuss practical and actionable tips for incorporating each pillar into your daily routine, as well as provide insights and strategies for managing stress, cultivating mindfulness, improving self-compassion, and building healthy relationships. It's time to prioritize yourself and make self-care a non-negotiable part of your life. So, whether you're a busy professional, a full-time parent, or simply seeking a happier and more balanced life, this article is for you. Get ready to embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. Understanding the concept of balance and inner peaceBalance and inner peace are not just abstract concepts; they are essential for our overall well-being. Achieving balance means finding equilibrium in all areas of our lives, while inner peace refers to a state of calmness and contentment within ourselves. When we are balanced and at peace, we are better equipped to handle life's challenges and enjoy its blessings. Pillar 1: Physical self-care - Nurturing your body Physical self-care is the foundation of overall well-being. Taking care of our bodies not only improves our physical health but also boosts our mental and emotional well-being. Eating a nutritious diet, exercising regularly, getting enough sleep, and practicing good hygiene are all important aspects of physical self-care. By prioritizing our physical health, we can increase our energy levels, reduce stress, and enhance our overall quality of life. Pillar 2: Emotional self-care - Managing and expressing emotions Emotional self-care involves recognizing, understanding, and managing our emotions in a healthy way. It's about allowing ourselves to feel and express our emotions without judgment or suppression. Practicing self-compassion, engaging in activities that bring us joy, and seeking support from loved ones are all vital components of emotional self-care. By nurturing our emotional well-being, we can improve our relationships, reduce anxiety and depression, and cultivate a greater sense of inner peace. Pillar 3: Mental self-care - Cultivating a positive mindset Mental self-care is about nurturing our minds and cultivating a positive mindset. It involves engaging in activities that stimulate our intellect, such as reading, learning, and problem-solving. Practicing mindfulness and meditation can also help quiet the mind and reduce stress. By taking care of our mental health, we can improve our focus, enhance our creativity, and develop a more optimistic outlook on life. Pillar 4: Spiritual self-care - Connecting with your inner self Spiritual self-care involves connecting with our inner selves and cultivating a sense of purpose and meaning in life. This can be achieved through practices such as meditation, prayer, or spending time in nature. Reflecting on our values, beliefs, and goals can also help us align our actions with our inner truth. By nurturing our spiritual well-being, we can develop a greater sense of peace, find clarity in decision-making, and foster a deeper connection with ourselves and others. Pillar 5: Social self-care - Building and maintaining meaningful relationships Social self-care is about nurturing our relationships and building a supportive network of friends and loved ones. It involves setting boundaries, practicing effective communication, and prioritizing quality time with the people who matter most to us. By cultivating healthy relationships, we can experience a sense of belonging, receive emotional support, and foster a greater sense of happiness and fulfillment. Pillar 6: Professional self-care - Finding fulfillment in your work Professional self-care is about finding fulfillment and satisfaction in our work. It involves aligning our career with our passions and values, setting realistic goals, and maintaining a healthy work-life balance. By prioritizing our professional well-being, we can experience greater job satisfaction, reduce stress, and enhance our overall sense of purpose and fulfillment. Pillar 7: Environmental self-care - Creating a harmonious living space Environmental self-care involves creating a harmonious and nurturing living space. It's about surrounding ourselves with a clean, organized, and aesthetically pleasing environment that supports our well-being. Decluttering our physical space, incorporating elements of nature, and creating a calming atmosphere can all contribute to a greater sense of peace and tranquility. In Closing: Incorporating these pillars can lead to a more balanced and peaceful life Incorporating the seven pillars of self-care into our lives can lead to a balanced and peaceful existence. By nurturing our physical, emotional, mental, and spiritual well-being, building meaningful relationships, finding fulfillment in our work, and creating a harmonious living space, we can cultivate a deep sense of inner peace and live a life that is aligned with our values and desires. Remember, self-care is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Prioritizing yourself and making self-care a non-negotiable part of your life is the key to achieving balance and inner peace. So start implementing these pillars into your daily routine and embark on a journey of self-discovery and transformation. You deserve it. Now, take a deep breath and make a commitment to yourself – a commitment to prioritize self-care and create a life that is balanced, fulfilling, and filled with inner peace to heal your body from cancer or other illnesses you're suffering with. If you want to learn more, I will be going deeper with each pillar in my community. Join me, link's below. Much love my friends, Donna Gammon
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How to Find Your Personal Path to Wellness Unleashing the Healing Power Within: How to Find Your Personal Path to Wellness
Are you ready to take control of your health and unlock the secret to true wellness? In today's fast-paced world, finding balance and achieving optimal health can feel like an impossible task. But fear not, because the power to heal lies within you, waiting to be unleashed. In this article, we will guide you on a journey to discover your personal path to wellness and tap into the healing power that resides deep within your being. From nourishing your body with wholesome foods to nurturing your mind with positive thoughts and self-care practices, we will explore a variety of powerful strategies to support your journey towards vibrant health. Whether you're seeking relief from chronic ailments, recovering from an injury, or simply yearning to live a more vibrant life, this article will empower you with practical tips and guidance to overcome obstacles and transform your wellbeing from the inside out. Get ready to unleash the healing power within and embark on a life-changing journey towards lasting wellness. Understanding the concept of healing power within Healing is not just about treating symptoms; it's about addressing the root causes of illness and restoring balance to your mind, body, and spirit. The concept of healing power within recognizes that we all have an innate ability to heal ourselves. It is about harnessing the body's natural healing mechanisms and supporting them through various means. Healing power within starts with acknowledging that you are not just a physical body, but a complex system of interconnected energies. These energies influence your overall well-being and can either contribute to or hinder your healing process. By understanding this concept, you can begin to tap into your own healing power and take charge of your health. The mind-body connection: Exploring the link between mental and physical health The mind and body are inseparable, and their connection plays a crucial role in your overall health and well-being. Your thoughts, emotions, and beliefs can have a profound impact on your physical health. Stress, for example, can weaken the immune system and lead to a host of health problems. On the other hand, a positive mindset can enhance the body's ability to heal and thrive. Research has shown that practices like meditation, deep breathing, and mindfulness can positively influence the mind-body connection. These practices can help reduce stress, improve mental clarity, and promote emotional well-being. By incorporating such practices into your daily routine, you can strengthen the mind-body connection and unleash your body's natural healing abilities. Identifying personal barriers to wellness Before embarking on your journey to wellness, it's important to identify and address any personal barriers that may be holding you back. These barriers can be physical, emotional, or even mental. For example, lack of time, unhealthy lifestyle habits, negative self-talk, or unresolved emotional trauma can all hinder your progress towards optimal health. Take some time to reflect on your life and identify any patterns or habits that may be contributing to your current state of health. Are there any negative beliefs or self-limiting thoughts that are holding you back? Are there any unhealthy relationships or environments that are draining your energy? By identifying these barriers, you can begin to remove them and create space for healing and growth. Cultivating a positive mindset for healing A positive mindset is a powerful tool for healing. When you believe in your body's ability to heal and have faith in the process, you create a fertile ground for transformation. Cultivating a positive mindset involves cultivating self-compassion, practicing gratitude, and reframing negative thoughts into positive affirmations. Start by becoming aware of your thoughts and challenging any negative or self-critical beliefs. Replace them with positive and empowering affirmations that align with your desired state of health. Surround yourself with positive influences, whether it's uplifting books, inspiring podcasts, or supportive friends and family. By cultivating a positive mindset, you can tap into the healing power within and create a nurturing environment for your well-being. Nurturing your body: The importance of nutrition and exercise Proper nutrition and regular exercise are essential for supporting your body's natural healing processes. Nourishing your body with wholesome foods provides the essential nutrients it needs to function optimally. Focus on a balanced diet that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Avoid processed foods, excessive sugar, and artificial additives that can disrupt your body's natural balance. In addition to nutrition, regular exercise is vital for maintaining a healthy body and mind. Physical activity not only promotes cardiovascular health and strengthens muscles but also releases endorphins, the body's natural feel-good chemicals. Find activities that you enjoy and make them a regular part of your routine. Whether it's walking, dancing, yoga, or swimming, find what works for you and commit to it. Exploring alternative therapies for holistic healing While conventional medicine has its place, exploring alternative therapies can offer additional avenues for healing and well-being. Practices like acupuncture, chiropractic care, herbal medicine, and energy healing modalities can complement traditional approaches to health and provide holistic support. These alternative therapies work by addressing the root causes of illness and promoting balance within the body. They can help alleviate pain, reduce stress, improve energy flow, and enhance overall well-being. When combined with conventional treatments, these therapies can provide a comprehensive approach to healing that addresses the whole person. The role of spirituality in wellness Spirituality plays a significant role in wellness, as it allows us to connect with something greater than ourselves and find meaning and purpose in life. Whether you practice a specific religion or have your own spiritual beliefs, incorporating spirituality into your wellness journey can bring a sense of peace, harmony, and inner strength. Engage in practices that resonate with your spiritual beliefs, such as prayer, meditation, or spending time in nature. Seek out spiritual communities or like-minded individuals who can support you on your journey. By nurturing your spirituality, you can tap into a deeper sense of purpose and align your actions with your values, promoting overall well-being. Building a support network for your healing journey Embarking on a healing journey can sometimes feel overwhelming, which is why building a support network is crucial. Surround yourself with people who uplift and inspire you, whether it's friends, family, or support groups. Connect with healthcare professionals who share your holistic approach to wellness and can guide you on your path. In addition to human support, consider the benefits of animal companionship. Pets can provide unconditional love, reduce stress, and offer a sense of purpose and companionship. Whether it's a loyal dog, a playful cat, or a gentle horse, animals can be powerful allies on your healing journey. Creating a personalized wellness plan To fully unleash the healing power within, it's important to create a personalized wellness plan that encompasses all aspects of your being. Start by setting clear and achievable goals for your health and well-being. Break them down into smaller, manageable steps that you can take on a daily basis. Consider incorporating various wellness practices into your routine, such as meditation, exercise, journaling, and healthy eating. Experiment with different modalities and approaches to find what works best for you. Remember that your wellness plan is unique to you, so be open to trying new things and adapting as needed. Conclusion: Embracing your journey to wellness In conclusion, the power to heal lies within each and every one of us. By understanding the concept of healing power within, exploring the mind-body connection, identifying personal barriers, and cultivating a positive mindset, you can unleash your body's natural healing abilities. Nurturing your body through proper nutrition and exercise, exploring alternative therapies, and incorporating spirituality into your wellness journey further support your path to vibrant health. Remember to build a support network of like-minded individuals and healthcare professionals who can guide you on your healing journey. And most importantly, create a personalized wellness plan that encompasses all aspects of your being. Embrace your journey to wellness, knowing that you have the power to transform your health and unlock the secret to true well-being. Donna Gammon Dear Valued Friends, Welcome to the latest edition of our Reiki Healing newsletter! I hope this message finds you in good health and high spirits. Life Healing Solutions is committed to providing you with valuable insights and information to support your holistic well-being journey. In this edition, we will explore the profound healing power of Reiki and how it can transform your life. Reiki: A Path to Healing and Balance Reiki, a Japanese healing technique, is gaining popularity for its ability to restore balance and promote overall wellness. It is a gentle, non-invasive practice that uses energy to address imbalances within the body, mind, and spirit. By directing positive life force energy through the body, Reiki promotes deep relaxation, relieves stress, and supports the body's natural healing abilities. The Benefits of Reiki Reiki offers a wide range of benefits that can positively impact your physical, mental, and emotional well-being. Here are a few key advantages: 1. Stress Reduction: Reiki helps release tension, promoting a state of deep relaxation and calmness. This relaxation response can help alleviate stress-related symptoms such as anxiety, insomnia, and fatigue. 2. Pain Relief: Reiki can provide relief from chronic pain and discomfort by targeting the root cause of the issue and stimulating the body's natural healing response. 3. Emotional Healing: Reiki works on an energetic level, helping to release emotional blockages and promote emotional balance. It can be particularly helpful in managing grief, trauma, and emotional imbalances. 4. Spiritual Growth: Reiki helps deepen your connection to your inner self and higher consciousness. It can enhance your spiritual journey, intuition, and personal growth. 5. Improved Well-being: Regular Reiki sessions can boost your overall well-being, enhancing your immune system, promoting better sleep, and fostering a positive outlook on life. Experience Reiki at Life Healing Solutions At Life Healing Solutions, I'm dedicated to providing personalized and transformative healing experiences. Whether you're seeking relief from physical discomfort, emotional healing, or a deeper sense of inner peace, I'm here to support you on your healing journey. In addition to individual Reiki sessions, I offer Reiki training and workshops for those interested in learning this powerful healing art. These programs provide you with the knowledge and skills to practice Reiki on yourself and others, empowering you to take control of your well-being. Upcoming Events and Special Offers I'm excited to announce that I will be hosting a Reiki Level 1 Training Workshop on Sept.16th. This workshop is perfect for beginners who wish to learn the foundations of Reiki and start their healing journey. Limited spots are available, so be sure to reserve your place early. As a token of our appreciation for your continued support, I'm offering a special discount of 10% off on all Reiki sessions booked within the next month. Simply use the code "HEALING10" when scheduling your appointment to redeem this exclusive offer. Lets Stay Connected To stay updated with the latest news, events, and special offers, make sure to follow us on our social media channels and subscribe to our newsletter. I love hearing from ,my clients, so please don't hesitate to reach out with any questions or feedback Life Healing Solutions is focusing on helping women with Cancer! Why are we focusing on Cancer healing? Well, 17 years ago, I went through Breast Cancer and had to go through chemo and radiation treatment. All though it wasn't fun, I learned so much! About myself, God, and how I could play a big part in my healing process.
Fast forward to today, I have multiple friends and family members going through cancer treatment. Of course, they are very dear to me, but three are pulling at my heartstrings and, at this time, fighting for their life. They are my sister, one of my best friends from high school, and a very dear friend from church. So, I asked myself how I could better serve those in need, and blogging is an essential, effective way to let everyone know what I am doing. And it will be a great platform to share ideas for cancer patients to start using techniques I have used to help heal their bodies. And by sharing on a blog, it will help reach more people. So, you will see more blog posts so I can serve those needing cancer healing and help those I love. With that said, cancer is one of those illnesses we hate to hear when someone says they are sick because there is no cure, but that doesn't mean we can't do anything. We can do some strategic things that can help us with our chances of survival. Here are three things to help you or someone you love get started today. #1 Meditation: Meditation can help them feel better and reduce anxiety and stress. Also, studies have shown that meditation can improve energy levels and lessen fatigue for people with cancer. #2 Sound Healing: Sound Healings vibrations and sounds work together to find harmony within the body, providing relaxation, peace, and pain relief. Sound healing can also impact your immune system, heart rate, and blood pressure. #3 Yoga: Yoga combines stretching exercises and deep breathing, is a great way to start healing. Yoga provides some stress relief for people with cancer and has also been shown to improve sleep and reduce fatigue. Doing these three techniques will help you get started on your healing journey today! If you need help or have questions please schedule a consultation with me; I am always happy to help. ![]() How to Let Your Inner Light Shine Can you think of someone you know who is always positive? This doesn’t mean that they are always happy, sometimes life throws pretty heavy curve balls, but do you know someone who responds to those curve balls with grace and ease, who reacts from a place of love and light? It’s people, like Mother Teresa, who face fear with love and forgiveness, who is a true spiritual light that has inspired the world. You have a light inside of you, too. Depending on where you are in your spiritual development, that light might be a flickering flame or a big bonfire, but it’s there, and it’s ready for you to nourish it and let it get brighter and stronger. You can do this by just reaching higher levels of awareness. In this expanded state you’ll interact with the others from a thoughtful, loving place. This is a much happier one then from the immediate knee-jerk reactions and fearful defensiveness that is the pattern of so many who are not coming from an enlightened awareness. Don’t Suppress Your Light! Healing and enlightenment go hand in hand, it’s much harder to reach states of expanded awareness when your energy field is blocked or your chakras are spinning incorrectly. Think of it like this: when your chakras and energy field are not operating at it best, darkness fills your energy field and your body like a drop of ink in water, spreading quickly, and dimming your inner light. This is where energy healing comes to the rescue. With energy healing, you can clear those blockages and begin cleansing, charging and balancing your field, allowing space for the light to return. Here are 3 tips for healing yourself and growing the light inside of you so you can live a more positive, happier life. 1. Have fun. Joy is often overlooked in our fast-paced world, but it is so important for bringing light into your life. If you’re like many, you are often rushing around, caught up in the busy-ness of projects, travel, appointments, etc. and you might forget to take time out to simply enjoy yourself. Here are some suggestions and somethings I’ve been doing lately. Take a fun break! Even if you have to schedule it in, make time to read a good book or watch an entertaining movie or take a bubble bath, play games with friends or take a walk with your significant other. Whatever makes you smile, laugh, and feel great—do that as often as possible. It’s really just letting yourself have fun the way you did as a child, totally free and unrestricted. Think about how good it feels to let go. Joy is healing. 2. Live your soul’s true purpose. When you are living your true purpose in life, doing what your soul came here to do, you move closer to the light. It’s like having the key that opens a lock, and when you find your true-life purpose, every day will feel like a gift. You’ve heard the words, “You never work a day in your life when you do what you love.” I know this is true for myself: when I’m doing energy work or teaching my healing courses, I feel amazing! If you haven’t found your purpose yet, you can discover it through meditation, working with a spiritual teacher, or other personal work. You can always tell when someone is living in alignment with their true soul’s purpose, because they literally glow. 3. Be of service. If you’ve been to one of my energy healing sessions or listened to my podcast, you have probably heard me say, be of service to others. When you serve it helps you heal yourself. By giving and using your gifts for the greater good it takes your energy and light beyond yourself and helps others grow their light. Light brings more light. If you encourage the light that’s already inside of you to grow and expand, it will eventually burn so brightly that others can’t help but see it, and they will want to follow your radiant example. Not only will you be raising your own vibration by living in light and acting from a framework of positivity, but you will also be helping to raise the vibration of our world! Today's episode will leave you with your jaw dropped! Udo Erasmus, born in Poland during the second World War, found himself starting his life in an orphanage. Realizing at a young age that the world was suffering from a lack of peace and harmony, Udo started down a path of higher education within science, biosciences, psychology, biochemistry, genetics, medicine, and health. He is equipping all of us with the powerful knowledge we likely do not know, and the information he shares with us involving fats, oils, and omegas will give you what you need to make amazing changes for your health. ⠀ ⠀ Click the #linkinbio for the full episode! ⠀ ⠀ Udo has dominated the industry of preventative health and has a wonderful website full of information revolving oils, fats, omega-3. Visit https://udoerasmus.com for more information! ⠀ The Seven Pillars of Self Care
Self-care has become a popular buzzword online, usually portrayed as spa days and indulgent luxury, but what is it really? Let’s dispel the myths so you can truly take care of yourself and your mental health in a weird and constantly changing world. What is self-care?Self-care is simply taking some action meant to improve your health. Of course, there are different aspects of your health you may be wanting to improve. This is where the seven pillars of self-care come in. Some days, you’re tending to one aspect of self-care, while on other days, you may be impacting several. What are the seven pillars of self-care and how do you incorporate them into your self-care routine? The seven pillars of self-care are:-
As you can see these are all important aspects of your life that should be maintained for overall happiness? Many of us are neglecting one, two, or a handful of these areas of our own life, even as we help our loved ones to maintain these pillars. Seeing them in black and white will help you become aware of each so you can better manage areas in which you have been neglectful. You have to be your best self in order to care for others so it's time to start practicing some self-care. As the saying goes, you can’t pour from an empty cup. Let’s look at each pillar individually so you can begin focusing on each in your self-care practices. Mental Mental health and the stigma surrounding it seem to be on everyone's lips these days. What exactly is it and why is it important to self-care? Mental health determines our social, emotional, and psychological wellness. It impacts the way we handle stress, interact with others, and even the choices we make when faced with major and minor decisions. Mental health is tied in with other steps of a self-care routine, underlining its importance. To maintain mental wellness it is important to
Emotional Many of us as children, especially boys, were discouraged from expressing our emotions. We were told to stop crying when we hurt and that being able to hide our feelings displayed strength. Vulnerability was frowned upon as being a weakness and so we became afraid of expressing our feelings. These emotions do not go away. They build up and spin around in our minds and bodies revealing themselves in undiagnosed non-communicable diseases. The first step to emotional healing is to become aware of, accept and express your thoughts and feelings. It is ok to be sad or angry. It is ok to feel hurt and sorry. It is ok to love. But you cannot love anyone else unless you love yourself. Speak well to and about yourself. Celebrate your achievements. Learn to appreciate your appearance and accomplishments and most of all learn to forgive yourself for mistakes and errors made in the past. You are the most perfect and unique you. No one else can be that. Physical Physical self-care involves much more than just going to the gym or working out. Physical self-care involves your diet, work schedule, sleep habits, and much more. Do you practice eating a healthy, nutritionally-balanced diet? Are you a workaholic or couch potato? Do you get physically active often and take vacations from work when needed? These are all important aspects of self-care and physical well-being. Exercising at least 3 times a week is recommended to stay fit and healthy and this may be as simple as opting to walk to the store instead of driving or taking the train. Put on some music and dance around in your living room. Take the stairs instead of the elevator. Find activities you enjoy doing. Environmental Not many people recognize the importance of our physical surroundings and the impact it has on our well being. Having a clean, well-organized, and clutter-free work and home area not only makes you more productive, it also impacts your emotional well-being. Are you someone who spends most of the day looking for your stuff? The frustration and stress associated with looking for misplaced items is something no one would ever miss. When your area is well organized with a designated place for everything then you eliminate this unnecessary stress. Keep a clean and clutter-free space and watch your mind follow suit. Spiritual Spiritual self-care does not imply becoming a religious person. Your choice of spiritual beliefs is entirely up to you but the important thing is that you care for your consciousness by exercising some spiritual principle. This may come in the form of yoga practice, seeking closeness with a higher power, indulging in meditation to calm your mind, or just connecting with nature. Whatever you choose, it is important that you nurture your spiritual well-being on a daily basis. Take time out from the hustle and bustle of life, retreat to your spiritual corner and connect with whatever keeps you grounded. Recreational When’s the last time you did something just for fun? Fun is essential, especially in a global pandemic and an increasingly stressful world. Find a creative way to relax, kick back and have some belly-busting laughter and old-time fun. For you, that might include watching a movie, heading to brunch with your closest friends, pretend-play with the children in your life, a game of football or watersports in the backyard, a dance party, or cooking a favorite meal. Whatever you do, remember having fun is as important as everything else that matters to you because you need to be able to relax and unwind to recharge your batteries. Social Being social doesn’t have to mean becoming a social butterfly? Many people, especially now in isolation, are reporting a feeling of loneliness and crave love and friendship, which is a crucial part of our emotional well-being. How do you seek to improve your social self-care? Becoming involved in community groups or social activities is one way to connect without the pressure of committing immediately to a one-on-one friendship or relationship. Reaching out to old friends and staying in touch with beloved family members can help to satisfy our need for social interaction. The opposite is also necessary. Walk away from negative persons who are present in your life causing stress and strife. It’s not easy but very necessary to your optimal mental health. It's ok to walk away, even from toxic family members. Remember the most important person to you is you and it's not selfish to practice self-care and love yourself. If you cannot care for yourself how can you care for someone else? So go on, put yourself as your number one priority from time to time. It will create a positive ripple effect in other areas of your life. Are There Better Uses for My Resources?
Henry Ford said, “The highest use of capital is not to make more money, but to make money do more service for the betterment of life.” We always hear about the big lottery winners who, within a few months or years, are completely broke again. Why is that? How could they squander millions of dollars so quickly? Weren’t they just trying to better their lives, as Ford counseled? Yes they were, but only if you take Ford’s quote out of context. In Ford’s book, My Life and Work, he talks about wealth being used to create more jobs, improve working conditions and to solve problems that help better individuals and society as a whole. He realized that by solving problems that affect those around us we also create more opportunity for everyone, including ourselves. Back to the lottery winner who blows all his money - is he helping to solve anyone’s problems other that his own? What is his focus? Isn’t it himself, his selfish wants, his own physical and material desires? And what is the result of that kind of focus? On TV recently I saw a program for which some of the moon mission astronauts were interviewed. These men, when they saw how small and beautiful the earth appeared to be from 240,000 miles away, were all profoundly affected. They viewed the entire human race as occupants, in a galactic sense, of a tiny lifeboat adrift on the eternal currents of space and time, all needing to work together to survive and thrive. In an instant they became proponents of universal cooperation and peace. Our purpose is much greater than ourselves. And when we discover how to use our divine gifts and talents and the monetary resources with which we’ve been blessed to “do more service for the betterment of life” we can create something expansive. Wellsprings of wealth and knowledge. Businesses that keep building. Gifts that keep giving. If you would like to find out more about how I am helping others develop their own expansive lives and businesses please send me a message, check out my website, or even take a listen to some of my podcasts with many transformational stories to choose from! Smart Money in Hard Times
As we all try to navigate the Age of COVID, many of us are finding finances to be one of our toughest challenges. Are you one of the millions who have been laid off, let go, had your hours cut, or been forced out of business? Or maybe you have a great job or business but you just don’t seem to be able to get ahead? Regardless of your current financial circumstances, you can likely set yourself up for a better future by using some of the following strategies: 1. Decide on Your Top 3 Financial Goals If you asked me what my top three financial goals are, I would tell you that the first is to carry no debt - other than a mortgage - that I can’t pay off monthly (we have already achieved this goal); second is to own a home outright; third is to be able to comfortably retire when I’m 60. Do you see how the first two goals directly impact the third? Now, what are the three things you want to achieve financially? Give it some in-depth thought. Talk it over with your spouse or partner if you have one. Brainstorm and get your ideas on paper. This step is number one because it will drive all of your key financial decisions in the future. See where this is going? Excited yet? 2. Get a Handle on Debt Loan interest never takes a day off. If you have any typical brand of debt, the interest on that debt is compounding every single day no matter what. That is your money working against you in the worst kind of way. And what is your interest rate on that debt? If you have a $25,000.00 car loan at the “good” rate of 3% over 5 years, you’ll pay nearly $2000.00 in interest. Some might say, “no big deal,” but I can think of a whole bunch of better ways to spend 2 grand, can’t you? And that’s small potatoes compared to consumer debt! Consider the following scenario: Let’s say you have maxed out your $10,000.00 limit card with a rate of 21%. Determined to mend your ways, you decide to quit charging money on that card and to start paying $245.00 against the balance each month until it is paid off. What’s the result? After six long years your balance is paid off. Hurray! And along the way you’ve paid nearly $7700.00 in interest. Ouch! Was all that stuff you bought with the card worth it? And how about opportunity cost? How much would you have earned by putting that $245.00 in a simple index fund for 6 years? At an average rate of return of 7% you would be holding nearly $21,700.00 in that investment. Can you see what a killer debt can be? 3. Be Selective When You Spend Have you ever heard the saying, “Penny wise and pound foolish?” That has described me when I have been so careful about shopping for deals on little items at the market, only to turn around and make a really big stupid purchase. Here’s an example that may resonate with some of you. Let’s say you need a car to commute to work. You could buy your neighbor’s used Honda Accord for $8000, but you see that your co-worker just got a brand new blacked-out F-350 to tow his boat and which also doubles as his commuter truck. He drives you to lunch in the truck and you fall in love with the comfort, the room, the leather seats, and the idea of looking as cool as the Marlboro man when the ladies see you driving it. So, throwing caution to the wind, you go down to the dealership and finance a nicely-optioned Super Duty for $69,000.00 at 3% for 60 months. You don’t haul hay or own a boat but you are going to drop $1240.00 a month to channel your inner Toby Keith. And let’s not forget about Cost-of-Ownership concerns like depreciation, fuel consumption, insurance, repairs, taxes and fees. Not including the price of the truck, your 5 year COO @ 15k miles per year totals about $75000.00. That means you incurred liabilities totaling $144,000.00 to get you back and forth to work over those 5 years. The Accord, on the other hand, with COO costs included, would have only set you back about $18,000.00 or so. Can you think of some alternative uses for the $122,000 difference? Always consider what your decision means when it comes to your top 3 big financial goals. If it takes you further away from your objectives, go back to the drawing board! Wrap up - Your financial goals and strategy are completely in your control! Wherever you’re at, just take stock of the situation and start taking baby steps based on your top 3 goals. As far as other suggestions go, I would take a hard look at setting up automatic monthly transfers into investments and tax sheltered financial instruments beyond your 401k, such as an HSA, a Roth IRA, etc. I would try to set aside a minimum of 10% of your salary for investing and more if you are able. Another thing that some people find quite beneficial and freeing is practicing some degree of minimalism. In a nutshell, the idea is less stuff = less worries, stress and problems. You might do a quick evaluation of the things that bring you true joy and the things that don’t. Then get rid of the things that don’t. Lastly, there is tons of great financial advice and info to be found online. Do a little research and see what resonates with you. You can do this! ReplyForward |
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