The Art and Science of Budgeting

The Art and Science of Budgeting

Do you have trouble tracking or sticking to a budget?  If so, You’re not alone.   Many Americans experience stress on a monthly basis when they pay their bills or experience unforeseen situations which always brings unforeseen expenses.   

Below are some simple and easy to apply concepts to help you become a better budgeter. Give them a try to help you regain control over your personal finances or household budget:

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The Holidays Are Just Around the Corner… Start Getting Ready for Them with a “No-Spend Month Challenge”

The Holidays Are Just Around the Corner… Start Getting Ready for Them with a “No-Spend Month Challenge”

As the holidays approach and fall is in the air this could aba  good time to consider a “No Spend Month”.  There are a lot of resources out there on this topic, which should serve to illustrate two points.  First, that spending and saving are issues many of us face and sometimes struggle with. Second, a “No Spend Month” is completely do-able.  If so many others have completed a “No Spend Month” you can too!! 

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3 Reasons Your Spouse or Partner Should be Included During Planning Conversations

3 Reasons Your Spouse or Partner Should be Included During Planning Conversations

Have you and your spouse discussed your retirement plans?  In the 2017 study, Age Wave/ Merrill Lynch, “Finances in Retirement: New Challenges, New Solutions” showed that only 16 percent of pre-retirees older than 50 feel prepared for a 20-year retirement.  

Personally, I found that to be a truly sobering statistic.  As a Certified Financial Planner™ I’ve seen the importance and difference working with a professional to develop and follow a financial plan can make.  Also, I know there is a significant need in our country to help individuals plan their finances and retirements.  However, I was shocked to see a number less than 20 percent!  

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Think You Are Too Young or Can’t Afford to Hire a Financial Professional to Help…. Think Again!

Think You Are Too Young or Can’t Afford to Hire a Financial Professional to Help…. Think Again!

Just because you have recently graduated from college or are early in your career doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t be thinking about your financial future or that you can’t seek help in answering questions you may have.  This is the exact time you should be asking questions.  First, from a saving for your retirement perspective, the younger you are when you start planning and saving for your retirement the better your chances of having a financially independent retirement age.  

But, if you are like many young workers or graduates you feel as if you are unable to save toward many of your life goals.  You may be like the many other recent graduates who have higher levels of student loan debt, lower levels of wealth and personal income than any other generation at the same stage in life according to The Pew Research Center.  Depending on the type of student loans you have federal (subsidized/ unsubsidized) loans or private loans your repayment options will vary. That only means you need some help to review your student loans to see if you could benefit from refinancing them or help you figure out a plan to begin paying off your loans. 

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You’re Speaking, Is Your Advisor Listening???

You’re Speaking, Is Your Advisor Listening???

Recently, women have been the topic of a lot of financial industry conversations, studies, and white papers in the financial services industry.  With women making up slightly over half of the population it seems it is past time for industry professionals to realize the importance of female clients and to begin questioning if their current practices are female friendly. 


As a female who has worked in the financial services industry since 2006, I can say the industry as a whole has made several steps to engage more female clients.  However, overall the industry still has a long way to go.  To the industry’s credit many practicing professionals have read the numerous articles, white papers, and research studies written whose focus has been “Women & Investing” or “How to Communicate with Female Clients” and attended many seminars created that tout, “How to Attract and Retain Female Clients” or “The Opportunity Female Clients Represent”.    Still, with all the research and studies as an industry, we are missing the mark. 

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“I’ve Been Granted a Stock Option from My Employer. What’s Next”? - Understanding Your Executive Compensation

“I’ve Been Granted a Stock Option from My Employer.   What’s Next”? - Understanding Your Executive Compensation

Many employers will grant company stock options to executives and key employees as a way to incentivize them to remain at a company and tie their incentives to increased production/ profitability of the company.  If you have received a stock option from your employer you probably have several questions.  

To fully understand your benefit, you need know what is an Incentive Stock Optionsor ISO and what the similarities/ differences between Incentive Stock Options (ISOs)and Non-Qualified Stock Option (NQSOs).  This knowledge will help you to identify and better manage your options. 

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Understanding the Difference Between a Financial Advisor and a Certified Financial Planner™

Understanding the Difference Between a Financial Advisor and a Certified Financial Planner™

You more than likely have seen Financial Professionals call themselves by different titles.  And like many other consumers you may be confuse about the differences, or if there are any differences. If you have ever wondered about the difference between your friend’s Certified Financial Planner™ and your Financial Advisor, keep reading to find out. 

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