Don't Be Like the Government: A Financial Planning Pep Talk
The government shut down again. Nothing says "we've got this under control" like 2 million federal workers wondering if they should start a GoFundMe.
We've been here before. I know because I lived it. In 2013, I was a Department of the Army Civilian, and my then-husband, a career (22 years in) Soldier, was on his 4th wartime deployment. And while he was overseas serving his country, Congress couldn't get it together long enough to make sure we were getting paid on time.
Let that sink in.
Meanwhile, we are over here clipping coupons, meal prepping, and having minor panic attacks when our credit card bill is $47 higher than expected. But Congress? They're out here with a $36 TRILLION debt like it's Monopoly money, playing chicken with the economy while we're all just trying to make sure our 401(k) doesn't become a 201(k).
We do not control what those folks do in Washington. But we CAN make sure we don't run OUR finances like the federal government runs theirs.
You do NOT want your financial plan to look like the national budget. You know what happens when you don't have a plan? Overdraft fees. Stress, anxiety, panic. That sinking feeling when an unexpected expense hits and you realize you are one car repair away from a personal shutdown. The fear when you swipe your debit card in the grocery checkout line with a basket full of items thinking the swipe is going to say “declined.” That CAN be avoided
While they are out there arguing about debt ceilings and medicare, here's your assignment:
Build an emergency fund. 3-6 months of expenses. Because unlike the government, you can't just print more money when things get tight.
Live below your means. Revolutionary concept, I know. But if Congress won't do it, somebody should.
Invest consistently. Even when the market's weird. Even when the headlines are screaming. Compound interest doesn't care about shutdowns.
Know where your money is going. Track it. Budget it. Give every dollar a job. Be the opposite of a federal spending bill.
Get your beneficiaries straight. If your ex is still on your life insurance or your 401(k), we have a problem. A BIG one.
Have a will and basic estate docs. Because leaving your family to figure it out while they're grieving? That's a government-level move, and we're better than that.
Financial planning isn't sexy. Most people would say it is not fun. It is the adulting equivalent of flossing. But I will tell you what is A LOT LESS fun: Living paycheck to paycheck because you avoid making a plan. Scrambling when life throws you a curveball can be avoided. You want to wind down as you get older, not have to ramp up at 65 because you spent like Congress and saved like... Congress and you can’t afford to retire.
While they keep the shut down going in DC. We're going to keep building wealth, planning smart, and NOT going $36 trillion into debt. Deal?
Ready to get your financial plan tighter than the federal budget should be? Let's talk. I know lots of people who can help get you there. Click here to reach out.
