A Journey of Generational Impact - Money Money

Over the past decade and a half, I've worked to build my financial literacy and money management skills. The past few years taking scope of my life, the world and what brings me joy, early retirement has become a goal and its made me even more intentional with my spending and saving. Along this journey, I've felt it’s my responsibility and duty to share what I learn with my family & friends, aiming to empower them with the tools to shape their financial destinies.  

However, as anyone who's tried to share financial tips & information knows, convincing someone to change their financial habits is no easy feat. It's a challenge to guide others when they're entrenched in their own routines and perspectives. I often struggle with continuing to repeat/share the information and shutting up and letting the chips fall where they may. I recently received a call that served as reinforcement when people are ready, they will make the change.

The call came from one of my parents, who tends to alway have more going out than coming in. When I was younger I understood because they had kids to take care of.  As I got older and there was no one to really take care except for themselves, I didn’t and don’t get it. When I try to have money management conversations to understand where the money is going, they tend to shut down. I can’t care more than them, but I also can’t continue to try and have the conversation as their spending will ultimately impact and effect me.

My heart beamed with so much pride as they called me and told me they FINALLY opened a high yield savings (HYSA). They even went as far researching and identifying the right company for their investments. They even opened more than one account! Made one intentional for general savings and the other for a specific cause which I had been preaching HYSA for the last 2 years as I found out about them and being specific with your goals. Taking it a step even further, they even setup automatic deduction out of their income prioritizing saving. They reflected on their expenses and habits and recognized how much they spend on cigarettes and acknowledged they could cut back on that expense to save and prepare for their future.

When I tell you I was so ecstatic and proud!!! That mindset shift is so transformative and is what it takes to make a change in your life and get to a place and space you haven’t been before. Not only did they decide to lessen a habit that is a financial drain, they took the giant leap towards securing their financial future and preparing for unknowns. I believe in a balance of enjoying yourself and life while being responsible and taking into account your future and this is what is taking place!!!

This experience reinforced a crucial lesson I’ve known but it felt good to see it - people come around to change in their own time. The journey toward financial literacy is a personal one, and its my responsibility to continue being the example, even when immediate results may not be apparent. Patience and persistence are key.

Financial literacy isn't just about personal gain; it's about creating a ripple effect that touches the lives of those around us. My parent’s newfound commitment to financial health not only impacts their life but sets the stage for generational change and will be another example for the younger family members.  It's a testament to the power of leading by example, showing that through education and action, we can break free from financial constraints and pave the way for a more secure and prosperous future no matter your age, when you start, or where you’re learning or getting the encouragement from.