Financial Freedom: What Does It Mean to You and Can You Even Achieve It?

I recently had a heartfelt conversation with a friend who, with tears in her eyes, shared a significant milestone in her life. For the first time ever, she managed to fund her family’s vacation without resorting to debt.

In previous years, she had been caught in a vicious cycle of racking up credit card debt to fund their trips, only to spend months paying it off just in time for the next vacation.

As I joined in celebrating this meaningful moment with my friend, it prompted a moment of reflection on my own journey and the profound impact of managing finances wisely.

Summer Savvy: How to Plan for Expenses and Enjoy a Stress-Free Summer

Here’s a tip that we often forget in the rush leading up to the end of the school year:

Plan ahead for the expenses of summer.

You’ll likely be thankful you did — preparing and planning can help you enjoy the season and focus on fun instead of finances. By creating a budget and saving early for certain seasonal expenses, you can make the most of your summer without the stress and worries of overspending.

The Habits of the Wealthy: Building a Secure Future, One Habit at a Time

In their book "The Next Millionaire Next Door," Dr. Thomas Stanley and his daughter, Dr. Sarah Stanley Fallaw, delve into the lives of self-made millionaires, revealing some surprising truths. These "millionaires next door" aren't living flashy lifestyles. Instead, they are hard-working people who share six common behavioral traits (“wealth factors”) that paved the path to their financial success.

Let's unpack these traits and see how to incorporate them into your financial journey.

Enjoy This Holiday Season: 5 Ways to Manage Your Finances and Minimize Stress

Even with the current economy of rising prices, high inflation, and feeling like our dollar isn’t going as far as it used to, Americans are still planning to spend lavishly on holiday shopping, with figures surpassing pre-pandemic levels. And even though they may be more discerning in their gift buying with higher prices and less purchasing power, almost 40% of consumers plan on spending more than they did last year.

Whether you plan on spending as much or more than you have in previous years or stick to a tight budget, minimizing your stress and maximizing your finances can be at the top of your priority list.

Embracing Generosity: Top 4 Reasons to Include Giving in Your Financial Strategy

As a nation, we are very generous with one of our most precious resources: money. In 2020 alone, Americans gave $471 billion to charities. And with over 1.54 million charitable organizations (in our country alone) to choose from, it’s not hard to find a worthy cause.
Many small businesses also encourage their employees to give their time and talents by volunteering locally. Small businesses often give more than their big business counterparts— 75% of small business owners give approximately 6% of their profits to charities every year.

Don't forget these key items in your May budget

May can be a season of change and chaos, but don’t let these seasonal expenses surprise you!

How To Create A Budget For October That Will Jumpstart Your Financial Plan

It’s officially fall in Western Pennsylvania! The air conditioning has been off for a few weeks, pumpkin flavored everything is in full swing and the cooler temperatures are setting in. And October this year has another benefit for many Americans, a 3rd paycheck.

What most people are inclined to do is pay off large amounts of debt with that extra pay. Was that what you were thinking too?

8 Steps To Take NOW For The Health Of Your Finances

There’s not a single person who can say they aren’t affected by Covid-19 in some manner. Whether it’s directly financial, childcare related, health issues, caring for someone else, or something else, it’s affected everyone in some manner or another. Follow these 8 steps to keep your family (and business) financially secure.

Dispelling the Myths - Renting vs. Buying a home

If I’ve heard it once, I’ve heard it 100 times. Why would I rent when I can buy and pay less? I can be building equity. I’m throwing my money away by renting.

8 Often Missed May Budget Items

Don’t forget these top 8 items most commonly missed when doing the May budget. And if you’re a lucky winner of the extra paycheck this month, make sure you spend it with intention!

April Showers Grow Free Flowers

Create your April spending plan now and be prepared by checking out the 9 categories listed below that can easily get overlooked. And don’t forget, budgeting is a team sport if you’re married! Sit down after the kids are in bed with your favorite beverage in hand and make it a plan you both agree on.

Approaching Your March Budget Like A Lion

Did you know that 80% of New Year’s Resolutions fail by February, so by March, they’re pretty much caput. Let’s get your financial resolutions back on the road with your March Budget. Don’t forget all the items below.

February Budget Items

I know it’s not the most romantic event in your marriage, but sitting down to discuss your family finances and doing a budget together at least monthly is one of the healthiest things you can do for your marriage. It’s critical that we dream together and share common goals so that you’re working tandem to achieve them.

Ring In The New Year With A Superb Spending Plan

It’s said that a DREAM written down with a date becomes a GOAL. A GOAL broken down into steps becomes a PLAN. A PLAN backed by ACTION becomes REALITY. Think of your budget as your plan. Following your budget will help make your dreams a reality.

25 Side Hustles You Can Start Today To Make $1000 A Month

We’re all given the same 24 hours in a day, it’s what we do with it that differentiates us. Technology has made so much possible for us, I want you to take advantage of all the opportunities that are out there if you’re looking to kick debt in the face. Listed below are 25 side hustles you can start today, and make up to $1000/month!

You better make your December budget and check it twice

Traditionally, we all think about toys and gifts when we consider our Holiday budget. But don’t forget these sneaky items as well.

20 Date Ideas for Married Couples on a Budget

Now that you’re married, date nights are more important than when you were dating. This post breaks down budget-friendly date ideas for you and your spouse.