Money Matters
Money is one of those sticky topics, that growing up we weren’t encouraged to discuss. Over the years we’ve learned what it means to work with our finances and have discovered how often it is linked to our well-being and our self-care. So today, we here at AHS want to open the conversation and share some things we’ve learned over time while keeping our balances in check. If you’ve read our posts you’ll know that we’re not financial experts or advisors, we’re just people who think it’s important to talk about something that plays such a massive role in all of our lives, so let’s dive in.
Lesson 1. It’s okay to spend money sometimes
Yes, you read that right! Spending money is a necessary reality in being alive. We all need to eat, have shelter, wear clothes etc. so let’s take a moment to give ourselves some permission and know that extreme frugality (although to some ideal and/or necessary) isn’t always the mindset that helps us feel our best. Don’t get me wrong, I love to see how long I can go without breaking a bill but if every once in a while you want to give yourself kindness and get something nice, or enjoy an elevated meal, that’s okay, just make sure you’re bank account isn’t empty at the end of it. It’s all about spending on things that matter to you while keeping your bases covered. For example, I (Nicole) love to travel, so much of my savings are dedicated to this passion. Whatever your thing is, just know that you're allowed to spend money on your happiness.
Lesson 2. It’s okay to save money sometimes
Saving can be one of the best acts of self-care that you can do because it sets future you up for success, but that doesn’t mean it’s always easy. Future plans can often feel distant and arguably not as fun as a purchase made on a whim which can provide instant gratification rather than delay your joy for future you. One of my biggest tips is to have a set amount that you put aside every month that specifically goes into your savings for your future. That account can be a beautiful security blanket when the unexpected comes up or for some magical long terms plans.
3. Track your spending
Nothing makes me happier than concrete data to lean on for integral information. Having spent part of my career in analytics, I have found it endlessly useful for my husband and me to track our spending. Each month we’ll sit down and log each purchase on each card to see where we’re spending and how that reflects on our financial goals. We’ve all done the “I don’t want to check my bank account” game where you prefer to live in ignorant bliss, but trust us, having an eye on your money means that you can make more informed decisions that will support whatever your financial goals may be.
Lesson 4. Allow for ebbs and flows
Money comes and money goes. It’s easy to stress over financials (as I tend to do), but it’s important to remember that in a lot of ways, money is truly a balance. I keep my cool when spending money by focusing on the value of what the purchase brings and creates rather than the dollar amount, knowing that I’m investing in something that will add to my life or someone else’s. If I can make someone’s day by bringing them a coffee or making a friend feel special on their birthday then I will, that is money well spent bringing joy to someone else which makes me happy too. As long as your baseline is covered, respecting that some days the cup will overflow and others it will be low is just part of life. Time is the only currency we don’t get to save in an account for a later day, so spend it with those you love, give to others when you can and strive to save for future you.
Want more self-care tips and ideas? Check out our Self-care section and our Instagram to stay in the know.