Three Steps To Relieve Financial Stress
One way to relieve stress in any area of our lives is to take control of the situation, rather than to let events and conditions determine our quality of life. This is especially true in the case of financial stability. If we don't manage our financial situation, we are apt to experience a great deal of stress that will effect many areas of our lives for a very long time. Here are three steps that will get you on track to relieving financial stress so you can enjoy every day to the fullest extent!
The first step is to ask yourself if you're now ready to follow through with a plan to get out from under the dark cloud of financial stress. By following the process, you will reach your goal. First, though, you need to be ready to take on the responsibility of being the 'boss' of your financial situation. When you claim that responsibility, that means you've taken the first step, and you're ready to move on.
The second step is to make a budget. Does that sound boring? It doesn't have to be. You can make your budget in any format that you find attractive and that will keep your attention. Buy a large whiteboard and use colored markers to keep track of your expenses vs. your income. Buy a beautiful calendar (yes, even one with a good looking model on it, if you'd like) to write on, day by day, what your balance is, keeping an eye on whether you will have enough for your expenses. Draw a picture of a 'Savings Thermometer', the kind that non-profits often use when showing progress on how much they've received in donations toward their goal, and color it in to show your progress in building a savings account.
The third step of your process as boss of your financial security is to stay advised. It's true that 'information is power'. Always be ready to learn more about the basics of financial planning. Talk to debt counselors that might be available at no cost. Read articles about balancing your budget, check out books at the library written by financial advisers, and watch videos discussing the basics of financial security. Beware, though, of any 'get rich quick' gimmicks. Stick to the basics, and don't fall prey to those who are out to take your money.
It might be surprising that there are only three steps to this process, but that's because each one of those steps is very empowering. First, you take charge. Second, you set up a budget so there is not one nickel that you spend or receive as income that isn't accounted for. Third, you become educated about the basics of financial security. With those three steps, you will take charge of your current financial situation and progress towards financial security. You will no longer be burdened by the stress of financial insecurity.
In this article you learned about the three steps that can get you out from under the dark cloud of financial insecurity. You're on your way to enjoying the freedom of a balanced budget!
