Zero-Based Budgeting: Giving Every Dollar a Job

Welcome, dear readers! Today, let’s tackle a budgeting method that can help us gain more control over our finances. It’s called zero-based budgeting. Zero-based budgeting is a method where your income minus your expenses equals zero. But don’t be alarmed – zero in this case doesn’t mean empty pockets! Instead, it means that every dollar … Read more

The Crucial Role of Investment Diversification

Diversification is key in investing, spreading investments across various assets, industries, and locations to manage risk and seize opportunities. Benefits include mitigating risks, capitalizing on diverse market cycles, and achieving long-term goals. Common mistakes to avoid include overdiversification, ignoring correlation, and neglecting rebalancing. Embrace diversification for a balanced and resilient portfolio.

The Savvy Diner’s Guide to Saving Money

appwave save money

In our fast-paced world, the convenience of ordering takeout or delivery is undeniable. Whether it’s a busy workday or a lazy weekend, sometimes cooking at home just isn’t on the menu. However, the cost of ordering out frequently can add up quickly, making a significant dent in your budget. Fear not, though! With a few … Read more

How to Rebuild Your Credit Score from Scratch

watch your credit score

Credit: a five-letter word that carries immense weight in our financial lives. A good credit score opens doors to opportunities – from securing a mortgage to getting a favorable loan rate. But what happens when your credit score is less than ideal? Whether it’s due to past financial mistakes, unexpected hardships, or simply a lack … Read more

Teaching Kids about Money

As a mother, I have come to realise that one of the most important life lessons we can impart on our children is financial literacy. Picture this: if we consider life as a complex puzzle, then understanding money is like having the corner pieces. They’re not the whole picture, but they give you a place … Read more

Building Your Financial Confidence

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In a world where financial decisions shape our daily lives, confidence in financial literacy is more than just a skill—it’s an essential component of empowerment. Yet, for many, the realm of finance seems shrouded in complexity and jargon, leading to a sense of apprehension rather than control. This blog post is dedicated to demystifying the … Read more

Retirement Planning Advice for Self-Employed Parent

Young self-employed fashion designer or tailor looking at sketch of seasonal collection items

Could you offer some advice on what retirement savings options are available to self-employed individuals like me? And how should I prioritize my savings between retirement and my kids’ education?

My Worst Financial Mistake

We asked our readers to confess to their worst financial mistakes. Here are our 10 favorite responses (edited for clarity and privacy): These anecdotes serve as a reminder that financial decisions should be made with caution and thorough research. It’s easy to get swayed by emotions or external influences, but taking the time to evaluate … Read more

The 5 Habits of Savvy Investors

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Becoming a savvy investor is not just about luck or innate talent. It’s a journey that requires knowledge, discipline, and the cultivation of smart financial habits. Whether you’re just starting your investment journey or seeking to enhance your existing strategies, adopting these five habits can help you become a more informed and successful investor. Let’s … Read more

Money Lessons from Your First Job

learning on the job

We’ve all been there – the initial thrill of landing our very first job. For many, it’s a rite of passage, a step into adulthood and financial independence. But beyond the paychecks and newfound responsibilities, there’s an entire curriculum of life and money lessons waiting to be discovered. This article dives deep into the vital … Read more

I Want To Shop Local – But How?

Young African American woman shopping at a local city street market

I hope this email finds you well. I’ve been an avid reader of your column, and I really appreciate the practical advice you provide to help people make smart financial and lifestyle choices. So, here’s the thing: I’ve recently been inspired by a movement in my community that emphasizes the importance of shopping locally. I … Read more

Late Stage Capitalism’s Wounds

the misery of late stage capitalism

We live in an era characterized by unprecedented wealth, technological marvels, and global connectivity. Yet, beneath this gilded facade lies a system marked by stark inequalities, environmental degradation, and pervasive discontent. Dubbed ‘late stage capitalism,’ this phase of our economic evolution seems to magnify capitalism’s inherent flaws, with many pointing towards socialism as a potential … Read more

Should Kids Manage Their College Funds?

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As the landscape of higher education funding grows increasingly complex, parents and guardians are faced with myriad decisions. One particularly daunting question that’s surfaced in recent times is whether or not to let young adults manage their own college funds. Trusting a teenager or young adult with what might be a significant amount of money … Read more

Why The ‘Millionaire Next Door’ Is Probably Not Your Neighbor Anymore

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The American Dream has long been punctuated by the archetype of the ‘Millionaire Next Door’—that unassuming, frugal neighbor who, unbeknownst to you, has amassed a fortune through saving, investing, and living below their means. This notion has been immortalized in self-help books and financial literature, serving as a roadmap for generations aspiring to accumulate wealth. … Read more

Social Media’s Impact on Our Spending Habits

happy young woman browsing phone on bed

Ah, social media—the modern agora where everyone from your high school nemesis to your slightly eccentric aunt convenes to show off their latest escapades or acquisitions. It’s a realm brimming with manicured realities, a space where the grass doesn’t just look greener—it is greener. But what’s the cost of participating in this digital ecosystem where … Read more

Habits of Happy Investors

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A peculiar notion lingers around investing, painting it as a voodoo practice accessible only to Wall Street aficionados or those with finance degrees. But let’s debunk that myth right now: being a perceptive investor is not divined by some cosmic roll of the dice. It’s a deliberate path paved with not just mathematical algorithms but … Read more

Investing 101 for Teens

teaching teenagers to invest

In a world dominated by quick fixes and instant gratification, the concept of investing for the future can seem like a foreign language, especially to teenagers. Yet, it’s never too early to learn the principles of investing. In fact, the earlier one starts, the greater the potential for long-term gains. This article aims to demystify … Read more

The Role of Wisdom in Financial Literacy

In the clamor for financial education, we often hear terms like “budgeting,” “investing,” and “debt management” thrown around. While these are undoubtedly critical aspects of financial literacy, they only address the surface of what it means to be financially savvy. At the core of true financial understanding lies a timeless and often overlooked element: wisdom. … Read more

Overcoming Childhood Financial Trauma

In the labyrinth of our psyche, childhood experiences cast long shadows that often touch various corners of our adult lives. Among these, financial traumas stand out as particularly influential, shaping our attitudes towards money, spending habits, and even our self-worth. Understanding and addressing these deep-seated issues is not only crucial for financial well-being but also … Read more

Cryptocurrency and Cybersecurity at School

learning cryptocurrency at schol

In a bustling elementary school classroom, 10-year-old Mia excitedly shares how she earned her first digital coin in an online game. Across the room, Leo talks about a new app his parents installed that secures their home devices. The digital realm is no longer a distant world reserved for tech-savvy adults; it’s a playground where … Read more