Money Matters

Like all women, I love to shop. I love clothes, shoes, handbags, etc. I know several men who love to shop as well for clothing, shoes (i.e. Jordan’s, Dunks etc.) & electronics. We work hard every day and we should be able to enjoy the fruits of our labor however we shouldn't get in debt as a result. This is why I decided to write this. It's by the grace of GOD that I'm debt free. So I wanted to share some of the tips that I use and the information that I've learned to help my readers out as well.

 1. Simplify your lifestyle meaning; decrease your cost of living. I know several people who live beyond their means purchasing things they don't need, with money they don't have to impress people they don't like. If you decrease the amount of money you need to live you can increase your savings and/or money available to invest.

2. Don't be afraid of coupons. Personally I love them. I don't shop without them. You would be amazed how much money you can save. I've gone to Kroger on several occasions and between sale items and coupons I left with 5 bags of groceries spending $9. I do the same at Macy's and Victoria's Secret. Yes I can afford to pay full price but why should I when I don't have to? The money I save could be put to use elsewhere (we'll get to that later).

  

3. Seek a good financial planner. The best way to do this is by referrals from friends and family but still ask questions. Why do they like the planner? Does the planner educate them on various types of investments or just one? Is the planner willing to tell you how they personally invest their funds or show you their statement? If the planner won't do this, I consider that a red flag. If they believe in the products they're trying to sell you they should own it & they should be willing to show you what it is they invest in themselves.

4. Allocate funds after taxes into the following accounts:

• 50% into an account for normal living expenses & necessities
• 10% into a long term spending account
• 10% to an educational account for either yourself or your children
• 10% for charitable donations
• 10% into a "play" account to purchase clothing, shoes, a new handbag, go to the spa etc.
• 10% into an account for investments

Learn to think long term when it comes to purchases as opposed to instant gratification. Make an effort to create balance between enjoyment today and getting and/or remaining debt free for tomorrow. Eliminate emotional spending. Often times spending money you don't have stems from expending emotions you do have as a result of lack of fulfillment in some area of your life.

When making large purchases ask yourself, "Do I really need this?", "Is this an asset?", "Is this creating value?", or "Is this creating debt?"

Learn to collect assets, not bills. Until next time...

Spring is here! Are you ready?

Spring is here and I couldn't be happier. The snow has melted, we've had sunshine, the days are longer and hopefully Mother Nature will cooperate soon and we will see warmer. With that being said, I've compiled some tips in an effort to prepare you for a delightful spring.

For the ladies:

1. Update your skincare regimen - The winter months tend to strip our skin of its natural moisture thus leaving it dry. Cleanse your skin with a gentle, soap free cleanser. Ease up on the heavy moisturizers as they can make your skin feel greasy in the warmer months. Moisturizing should still be a part of your daily routine however you may want to select one that isn't as heavy. Be sure to exfoliate 2-3 times a week as well to remove dead skin cells.
2. Update your make-up - Most cosmetics have a 6 month shelf life so now is the perfect time to toss any leftover winter make-up. You can do away with the heavy foundations (which I'm against all together) and opt for a tinted moisturizer.  You don't need heavy make-up or a lot of coverage...especially in warmer months when it can melt off your face. Remember, less is more. Spring also gives you the opportunity to take advantage of the beautiful new shades that are available.
3. Select a spring summer fragrance - Think sexy, romantic, and floral.
4. Update your lingerie - This is something you should do often, the change of seasons should only provide another opportunity for you to do so. When you go shopping get measured as well to ensure that you're getting the proper fit. You'll look sexier, feel sexier and your man will thank you.
5. You're feet - Before you pull out any sandals or sling backs please get a pedicure and moisturize, moisturize, moisturize. I can't stress that enough. Lastly, I don't care how HAWT the shoe is; don't buy it if it doesn't fit. It's never cute to have your feet hanging off of your shoe. As a rule of thumb purchase shoes a 1/2 size bigger.

A man who takes pride in himself and his appearance is sexy. Being obsessed about it is NOT. That being said, I have a few tips for the men as well.

For the Men:

1. Skincare - There are several products in the marketplace that cater to men's skincare. As with women, you may need to update your cleanser and moisturizer particularly if you reside in the northern states. Heavy cleaners and moisturizers are no longer needed and if you're not too shy you may benefit from a men's facial. Don't forget to exfoliate. Also, when was the last time you changed the blade on that razor?
2. Fragrance - Women love a good smelling man, I know I do. Think sexy, refreshing, cool, and masculine.
3. Underwear - No need to get fancy guys. As long as they're clean and free of holes you're good. A new pack of underwear never hurts.
4. Manicure & Pedicure - Yes, men need them too. Manicures and pedicures clean the cuticles, which eliminates painful and unsightly hang nails. A pedicure exfoliates the dead skin away, helping to diminish calluses and potential dead skin build-up.

I'm baaaaack

It's been too long. At the end of last year I decided I was going to start blogging because people consistently tell me the world needs to hear what I have to say, I need to teach a class, etc. I have opinions on so many things that it sparks great discussions. I absolutely love mature, intellectual discussions. As always "life happens". This is a term I frequently use when we let life get in the way living, maintain / forming new relationships, and doing what it is we want to do. Yes, I've been busy. Like most adults I have work, family & social obligations that I need to tend to. However I also believe that we make time for what we want to make time for and I just simply have not made the time to blog. It is my goal to make time at least once a week to post a new blog. I'm new to blogging so once I get the hang of this and it begins to become my obsession I'm sure it will be more. So as Entian Bereola says, "Let's Get Into It"

The Holiday Rush

Thanksgiving has come and gone. We all ate good and now is the time when the malls are packed with shoppers, many of which will go into debt purchasing things they can't afford trying to impress others. I ask that you all remember the reason for the season. It's not about eating and giving gifts though that's a part of it. The reason for the season is Jesus. Find things to be grateful for and give him the praise. Are you healthy? Do you have a roof over your head?, A warm home?, Are you employed?, Do you have kids, parents, siblings?, Do you have a car or access to public transportation? These are all amazing gifts that GOD has given us. I'm sure you have plenty more to add to this list. So when you're shopping or preparing to sit down to enjoy your holiday feast with your family make sure you acknowledge GOD as well. We would not be here if it weren't for him. GOD is love.

Winter Boo Neither Required or Desired

It’s been a week since we “fell back” with Daylight Savings Time. The days are getting shorter and the nights are getting colder. As a result many are in search of a “winter boo” or “cuddle buddy”. I’m here to tell all of you who are doing this to STOP! Embrace being single.  Don’t mistake being alone for loneliness. Being single does not mean you’re desperate. What it does mean is that you’re amazing enough, woman enough, man enough and fabulous enough to walk alone. There is nothing wrong with wanting that special someone in your life but when you focus on you and being the best person you can be your special person will find you. So turn on the heat or grab a blanket because a "winter boo" is neither required or desired. Take it from me go out, have fun, and make the most of the single life!