Finance

Be sure to read the intro so that you understand what the terms used here mean and how they fit together.

Intro

Most Americans are broke, saddled with debt, live paycheck-to-paycheck, have financial stress, live beyond their means and don’t have enough saved for emergencies and retirement. Don’t be like most people. Be the weird one. Below is what to do, goals to shoot for, concerning facts to motivate you, and links to helpful tools and additional information.

Facts

• Over 40% of Americans have less than $10,000 saved for when they retire.
• Two-thirds of Americans would struggle to scrounge up $1,000 in an emergency.
• Only 32% of Americans maintain a household budget.
• 43% of Americans spend more than they receive each month borrow and use credit cards to finance the shortfall.
• 44% of American adults are relying on an auto loan to pay for their car.

Goals

To be without financial stress.

Goal Characteristics

To be the master of your money so it does not control you, to live below your means, to have and to follow a short- and long-term financial plan to reach your current and future financial goals.

To not be immature with your money and to just blow it on stupid stuff because you want it or to “keep up with the Jones.”

Skills

1) Save up $1,000 emergency fund.

2) Pay off all debt, except mortgage, from smallest to largest balance.

3) Increase your emergency fund to 3-6 months expenses.

4) Invest 15% of income into retirement funds.

5) Invest for kids’ college.

6) Pay off the mortgage.

7) Spend, give and be generous!

(Do steps 1-3 one at a time, 4-6 at the same time, then you reach 7).

Skill Expressions