Blog Articles

Mindset and How We Think

**1. Tony Robbins - Unleash the Power Within**

Harness the incredible force inside you with Tony Robbins' dynamic teachings from *Unleash the Power Within*. Robbins emphasizes the power of decision-making, revealing how our choices shape our reality. By focusing on what you truly desire and taking bold, purposeful steps towards it, you unlock your potential. Your past doesn’t dictate your future; you have the power to redefine your path by acting with intention today. Feel energized and filled with possibility as you let go of limiting beliefs and embrace transformative action. Robbins reminds us that change starts from within — ignite your passion, and awaken to the life you crave.

**2. Napoleon Hill - Think and Grow Rich**

Napoleon Hill provides a blueprint for success in his classic, *Think and Grow Rich*. Central to Hill's philosophy is the idea that thoughts are things, tangible and potent. By cultivating a mindset of abundance and unwavering belief, you can manifest your dreams. Hill outlines the importance of a definite purpose and a burning desire, key drivers that carve the path to riches. Surrounding yourself with a mastermind group amplifies your potential, as collective wisdom breeds innovation. Feed your mind with positive affirmations daily, and watch how your life transforms when you think and grow rich, not just in wealth, but in fulfillment.

**3. James Allen - As a Man Thinketh**

James Allen’s timeless work, *As a Man Thinketh*, teaches that our thoughts shape our lives. We are the architects of our destiny, and just as a gardener cultivates their garden, we must nurture our minds. By sowing seeds of positivity, we reap the rewards of happiness and success. Allen encourages introspection, reminding us that our external world mirrors our internal state. Embrace the power of your thoughts, cultivate habits that align with your goals, and watch as life blossoms in abundance. Your mindset is the fertile ground for achievement — tend to it with care, and extraordinary results will follow.

**4. Joseph Murphy - Power of the Unconscious Mind**

In *Power of the Unconscious Mind*, Joseph Murphy enlightens us on the incredible influence of the subconscious. Our unconscious beliefs, often formed in childhood, determine much of our behavior. By tapping into this realm, we can reprogram deeply ingrained habits and thoughts. Murphy highlights the importance of visualization, guiding us to imagine our desired outcome as if it already exists. As you harness the power of affirmations, your subconscious mind aligns with your conscious desires. This synergy unlocks pathways to success and wellness, fostering a transformation that begins from within, leading to profound changes in the outer world.

**5. Jim Rohn - The Art of Exceptional Living**

Jim Rohn inspires profound personal growth in *The Art of Exceptional Living*. He believes that changing your life’s direction requires shifts in philosophy, not just tactics. Rohn stresses consistent personal development, whether through reading, seminars, or mentorship, to cultivate a rich life. He introduces the idea of setting ambitious goals, aligned with core values, to drive sustained success. With discipline and dedication, Rohn asserts that anyone can elevate their existence. Focus on improving yourself daily — embrace learning and persistence as pillars of an exceptional life, and you’ll witness the transformation of your world, both personally and professionally.

**6. Dale Carnegie - How to Win Friends and Influence People**

Dale Carnegie’s *How to Win Friends and Influence People* provides invaluable insights on forging meaningful connections. His principles emphasize sincere appreciation and understanding others' viewpoints. Carnegie highlights the importance of being genuinely interested in people, listening carefully, and offering compliments. These seemingly simple actions create a profound impact, leading to trust and cooperation. Mastering the art of influence isn’t about manipulation; it’s about empathy, generosity, and shared success. By applying these timeless principles, you open doors to powerful relationships and opportunities, paving the way for both personal and professional triumphs in a connected, compassionate world.

**7. Joe Dispenza - Evolve Your Brain**

Joe Dispenza’s *Evolve Your Brain* explores the intricate power of neuroplasticity, showing that change in your life starts at the neurological level. Dispenza reveals how your thoughts shape your reality, highlighting the malleability of your brain. By breaking free from negative thought patterns and developing a mindset focused on growth, you can rewire neural pathways. He encourages meditation and mindfulness as tools to facilitate this transformation, fostering a connection between body and mind. As you consciously choose thoughts of empowerment and possibility, you evolve beyond perceived limitations, unleashing new potentials for joy and achievement.

**8. Norman Vincent Peale - The Power of Positive Thinking**

In *The Power of Positive Thinking*, Norman Vincent Peale illuminates the path to success through optimism and faith. Peale encourages the rejection of negativity, believing wholeheartedly in ourselves, and trusting in a higher power. Positive thinking is a catalyst for dynamic change, awakening inner strengths and creative solutions. By maintaining a hopeful outlook, you attract favorable circumstances, opening gateways to prosperity. Peale’s philosophy is simple yet profound: believe you can achieve, and you will find the way. Embrace optimism as your guiding star, and allow it to lead you to a life rich in peace, purpose, and possibility.

**9. Brian Tracy - Focal Point**

Brian Tracy’s *Focal Point* guides readers towards achieving clarity and focus in all areas of life. Tracy advocates for honing in on what truly matters, directing energy towards impactful tasks that align with long-term goals. By setting clear objectives and prioritizing pace-setting actions, you can drastically increase productivity and satisfaction. Eliminate distractions and simplify your life; this concentrated effort liberates the potential for exceptional achievement. Tracy encourages self-discipline and purposeful work, suggesting these as foundational elements leading to personal and professional fulfillment. Master the art of focus, and watch as your dreams transform into tangible realities.

**10. Stephen Covey - The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People**

Stephen Covey’s seminal book, *The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People*, presents a holistic approach to achieving life’s greatest ambitions. Covey’s framework begins with personal victories: being proactive, starting with clear goals, and prioritizing effectively. This personal leadership sets the foundation for public victories, fostering cooperative relationships and exponential growth. Covey underscores the power of synergy, leveraging collective strengths for innovative solutions. By constantly renewing and balancing your personal development, you achieve sustainable success. Integrate these habits into your life, making lasting changes to both your mindset and actions, and you’ll evolve into a highly effective individual.

**11. Lou Holtz - The Game Plan for Success**

Lou Holtz shares a strategic approach to achieving your goals in *The Game Plan for Success*. Holtz draws from his legendary coaching experience, emphasizing the importance of setting clear, achievable goals and maintaining discipline. He suggests creating a game plan that relies on teamwork, adaptability, and a positive attitude. Holtz champions persistence and resilience, reminding us to face obstacles as opportunities for growth. When you live by your values, commit to excellence, and inspire those around you, success becomes inevitable. Adopt this game plan, and start turning your aspirations into achievements, proving that success is a journey driven by intention and hard work.

**12. Andy Andrews - The Traveler’s Gift**

Andy Andrews weaves a captivating tale in *The Traveler’s Gift*, blending fiction with life-changing principles. The protagonist’s journey reveals seven key decisions, each serving as a cornerstone for success. Andrews stresses responsibility as foundational, urging readers to accept that they are the pilots of their destiny. Embracing wisdom from historical figures, Andrews encourages relentless courage, a forgiving spirit, and the savoring of life in the present. This book serves as a powerful reminder of personal agency; by choosing to implement these timeless decisions, you embark on a transformative journey, reshaping your future with purpose and vision.

Wellness Updates

Your immune system is indeed a remarkable part of your body, acting as the first line of defense against illnesses and infections. Here's a brief overview of how to support and maintain a healthy immune system:

1. **Balanced Diet**:
- **Nutrients**: Ensure your diet is rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains. Vitamins and minerals, like Vitamin C, Vitamin D, and Zinc, play crucial roles in immune function.
- **Hydration**: Staying well-hydrated supports overall health and helps the immune system function properly.

2. **Regular Exercise**:
- Engaging in moderate, regular physical activity can boost circulation, allowing the immune cells to move more freely throughout the body and perform efficiently.

3. **Adequate Sleep**:
- Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night. Sleep cycles are critical for a functioning immune system, as they strengthen the body’s natural defenses.

4. **Stress Management**:
- Chronic stress can suppress immune responses. Techniques like mindfulness, meditation, yoga, or hobbies can be beneficial in managing stress levels.

5. **Hygiene Practices**:
- Regular handwashing, avoiding touching your face, and maintaining good personal hygiene can prevent infections.

6. **Avoid Smoking and Limit Alcohol**:
- Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can impair immune function. Reducing these habits can significantly benefit your immune health.

7. **Vaccinations**:
- Keeping up with recommended vaccinations is an effective way to prime the immune system against specific diseases.  However, there are two sides to this practice.  One has to understand that vaccinations are putting disease in your body to build up antibodies.  Sometimes this practice can make you ill.

8. **Regular Check-Ups**:
- Routine health screenings and check-ups can help detect any potential issues early and ensure your immune system is functioning well.

By adhering to these simple lifestyle choices, you can help keep your immune system robust and responsive. Remember, small, consistent changes can make a big difference over time.

Financial Updates

Insurance

Insurance transfers the financial risk of life's events to an insurance company. A sound insurance strategy can help protect your family from the financial consequences of those events. A strategy can include personal insurance, liability insurance, and life insurance.

Featured Video

The Other Sure Thing

Though we don't like to think about it, all of us will make an exit sometime. Are you prepared?

1.  Life Insurance

Have any of you lost someone near and dear to you? How did you feel? Were you able to just get up and get back to “it”? There is a hole in our hearts when we lose someone. If that someone was a spouse, child, father, mother, sibling, grandparent, best friend, etc., normal may not be achieved for quite a while. But for those who are left behind, there are still kids to feed, bills that have to be paid, obligations that have to be met. And in case you haven’t had this happen before, funerals are not cheap. A relatively bare bones funeral could run up to $10,000 fairly quickly. The lifestyle you have all been living at continues, but the money doesn’t. And for those of you who think that bad things only happen to “the other guy”, I have news for you: There is no selectivity. It could be you, it could be the person next to you. LIFE HAPPENS.

If you are a business owner, what will happen to the business? What will happen to the cash flow that keeps your family safe? If you have partners, how will the deceased partner’s family be paid for their interest? Will that be enough to provide the deceased partner’s family the same income? And how will the partners get the money to pay the widow or widower?

There are many opinions around how much life insurance a person needs. But is an arbitrary figure the correct protection. What are we really protecting? Isn’t it the income a person brings into the household? If that is the case, shouldn’t there be a way to calculate that number scientifically? In fact, there is.

We cannot replace the value a person brings to the family, to the workers they are with, to the friends, churchmates or temple brethren. But we can replace the income. And wouldn’t that be huge.

2. Disability

The most important asset we own is our health – our ability to get up every day and do what we love to do (we hope that is the case). It is our ability to provide the lifestyle we live for ourselves and our families that motivates us. For some, lifestyle is everything “cars or trucks”; for others it is travel. Some like to cook and enjoy entertaining, while others like to eat at different restaurants all the time so they can taste the different cuisines. But for all of us, it is our families. We start out in our work life just trying to earn enough to pay the bills. Over time, that income can far outpace just paying the bills – it can afford us a different type of lifestyle. And usually, that means both spouses are working and earning. What if something happened to one of you to the extent that you could not work – either for an elongated time or forever? What would that look like in your world? Could you continue to make the mortgage payment on that new house, or the payment on that new car? Could you continue to travel to exotic locations? Would there be enough money to even pay the PG&E and put food on the table? And what about the added expense that a prolonged disability would cause us to incur?

We insure our cars and homes and jewelry. Doesn’t it make sense to insure the biggest asset we have – our health and ability to bring home “the bacon”? I know that people would rather wait than pay out money to be used only in the event of an emergency. Life happens to us all. To what degree that will happen, what it will look like, is only anyone’s guess. There are many options when looking at “paycheck protection”. Surprisingly, it might easily fit in your budget.

What happens during disability?

Some people have no disability income insurance, others have it through an employer, and still others aren’t even aware if they have coverage. For nearly everyone, though, a disability could mean a significant reduction in income, or no income at all.

3.  Medical

Most people buy insurance by price. They are always looking for the “best deal”, and they assume that low price conveys the best deal. Medical Insurance is there to protect the client’s balance sheet. When you buy insurance, buy it for “…the way you want it to look on the day you absolutely have to have it”. Life happens to us all. We just don’t know what that means. High deductibles (how much you have to pay before the insurance kicks in) may bring low premiums today, but it will result in a much larger bill when anything goes wrong.

We specialize in individual and family coverage, group insurance, insurance for seniors. We look for the best plans available. For us, the best plan offers the best coverage for the most reasonable price. We are aware that “best plan” and “most reasonable price” differs with the different clients we have.

When it comes to group insurance we can offer almost all plans that are out there. Again, we do the work to come up with the plan that you want.Group Benefits

Businesses who provide benefits for their employees can come to Pacific Advisors and expect packages that include a variety of benefits from medical insurance, life insurance, disability insurance, dental insurance, and vision insurance.

Packages can also include a variety of investment products such as 401 K’s.

Flexibility is one of our specialties so that the business owner and each employee has the benefits which is the best fit for them and their families.

4.  Investments

You can never be sure what the market will do at any moment, except change. A disciplined approach to investing that includes broad diversification to manage risk can help you achieve your financial objectives.

Many investment vehicles, such as annuities and individual retirement accounts, offer tax-deferred earnings. Because the earnings accumulate tax deferred, your money has the potential to grow faster than would a currently taxable vehicle.

Qualified plans, such as a 401(k) or the fully insured 412(e)(3) plans, adhere to IRS regulations regarding eligibility, employer contributions, employee withdrawals, and withdrawal tax consequences. A company must also meet strict federal rules for nondiscrimination to ensure that the plan benefits all eligible employees.Investment

Investing should be easy – just buy low and sell high – but most of us have trouble following that simple advice. There are principles and strategies that may enable you to put together an investment portfolio that reflects your risk tolerance, time horizon, and goals. Understanding these principles and strategies can help you avoid some of the pitfalls that snare some investors.

5.  Business Services

Many people start businesses to capitalize on a talent they have - this could be cooking, contracting, repairing, etc. But they soon learn that having a specific talent does not guarantee success. There are many aspects to running a business, such as buying right, supply/demand, employees, medical insurance, etc. Some businesses may create partnerships or may form corporations. The key is to protect the business investment while the business is growing. Then, at some point in time there will be changes such as an owner wanting to retire. Monetizing the assets to provide for these changes and maintain the owner’s lifestyle can be a challenge. Pacific Advisors can help navigate all of the situations that come from owning a business, and make sure the investments are protected.

6.    Choose a Financial Advisor and have Resources

Estate

Manage personal affairs while you're alive and control the distribution of wealth upon your death.

Effective estate management enables you to manage your affairs during your lifetime and control the distribution of your wealth after death. An effective estate strategy can spell out your healthcare wishes and ensure that they're carried out – even if you are unable to communicate. It can even designate someone to manage your financial affairs should you be unable to do so.

Featured Video

When Do You Need a Will?How to Talk About Money With Your Children or Grandchildren

When do you need a will? The answer is easy: Right Now.

Insurance

A well-structured insurance strategy can help protect your loved ones from the financial consequences of unexpected events.

Investment

Create an investment strategy that’s designed to pursue your risk tolerance, time horizon, and goals.

Lifestyle

How to strike a balance between work and leisure is just one aspect of the wide-ranging Lifestyle matters.

Money

Managing your money involves more than simply making and following a budget.

Retirement

Steps to consider so you can potentially accumulate the money you'll need to pursue the retirement activities you want.

7. Tax

Understanding tax strategies can potentially help you better manage your overall tax situation.  Understanding tax strategies and managing your tax bill should be part of any sound financial approach. Some taxes can be deferred, and others can be managed through tax-efficient investing. With careful and consistent preparation, you may be able to manage the impact of taxes on your financial efforts.

Featured Video

The Facts About Income Tax

Millions faithfully file their 1040 forms each April. But some things about federal income taxes may surprise you.

Inventorying Your Possessions

Creating an inventory of your possessions can save you time, money and aggravation in the event you someday suffer losses.Gap Insurance for Leased Cars

If you’re thinking of leasing a new car, then you shouldn’t forget about gap insurance.Does Your Credit Score Affect Your Insurance Rates?

Your credit score may influence how much you pay for auto and home insurance.Why should we consider life insurance?

Insurance isn’t always top of mind, but it can help protect you and give you confidence, so you can focus on your life.Women and insurance: What you need to know

As women achieve more, they lag in protecting their earnings, families, and legacies through insurance.Tips to convert term life insurance to whole life insurance

A term life policy can be converted to permanent life insurance as protection needs for your and your loved ones change

8. Tax Efficiency in Retirement

Will you pay higher taxes in retirement? It’s possible. But that will largely depend on how you generate income. Will it be from working? Will it be from retirement plans? And if it does come from retirement plans, it’s important to understand which types of plans will be financing your retirement.

Another factor to consider is the role Social Security will play in your retirement. When do you plan to start to take Social Security benefits? If you have a spouse, when do they plan on taking benefits? It’s critical to answer key Social Security benefits questions so you have a better understanding of how it will affect your taxable income.

What’s a pre-tax investment? Traditional IRAs and 401(k)s are examples of pre-tax investments that are designed to help you save for retirement.

You won’t pay any taxes on the contributions you make to these accounts until you start to take distributions. Pre-tax investments are also called tax-deferred investments, as the money you accumulate in these accounts can benefit from tax-deferred growth.

For individuals covered by a retirement plan at work, the tax deduction for a traditional IRA in 2024 is phased out for incomes between $123,000 and $143,000 for married couples filing jointly, and between $77,000 and $87,000 for single filers.1

Keep in mind that once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from a traditional IRA, 401(k), and other defined contribution plans in most circumstances. Withdrawals are taxed as ordinary income and, if taken before age 59½, may be subject to a 10% federal income tax penalty.

What’s an after-tax investment? A Roth IRA is the most well-known. When you put money into a Roth IRA, the contribution is made with after-tax dollars. Like a traditional IRA, contributions to a Roth IRA are limited based on income. For 2024, contributions to a Roth IRA are phased out between $230,000 and $240,000 for married couples filing jointly and between $146,000 and $161,000 for single filers.1

To qualify for the tax-free and penalty-free withdrawal of earnings, Roth IRA distributions must meet a five-year holding requirement and occur after age 59½. Tax-free and penalty-free withdrawals can also be taken under certain other circumstances, such as the owner's death. The original Roth IRA owner is not required to take minimum annual withdrawals.

Remember, this article is for informational purposes only and is not a replacement for real-life advice, so make sure to consult your tax, legal, or financial professionals before modifying your retirement strategy.

Are you striving for greater tax efficiency? In retirement, it is especially important – and worth a discussion. A few financial adjustments may help you manage your tax liabilities.

9.  IRA Withdrawals that Escape the 10% Tax Penalty

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG, LLC, is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2024 FMG Suite.

 9.        IRA Withdrawals that Escape the 10% Tax Penalty

The reason withdrawals from a Traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA) prior to age 59½ are generally subject to a 10% tax penalty is that policymakers wanted to create a disincentive to use these savings for anything other than retirement.1

Yet, policymakers also recognize that life can present more pressing circumstances that require access to these savings. In appreciation of this, the list of withdrawals that may be taken from a Traditional IRA without incurring a 10% early withdrawal penalty has grown over the years.Penalty-Free Withdrawals

Outlined below are the circumstances under which individuals may withdraw from an IRA prior to age 59½ without a tax penalty. Ordinary income tax, however, generally is due on such distributions.

  1. Death — If you die prior to age 59½, the beneficiary(ies) of your IRA may withdraw the assets without penalty. However, if your beneficiary decides to roll it over into his or her IRA, he or she will forfeit this exception.2,3

  2. Disability — Disability is defined as being unable to engage in any gainful employment because of a mental or physical disability, as determined by a physician.4

  3. Substantially Equal Periodic Payments — You are permitted to take a series of substantially equal periodic payments and avoid the tax penalty, provided they continue until you turn 59½ or for five years, whichever is later. The calculation of such payments is complicated, and individuals should consider speaking with a qualified tax professional.4

  4. Home Purchase — You may take up to $10,000 toward the purchase of your first home. (According to the Internal Revenue Service, you also qualify if you have not owned a home in the last two years). This is a lifetime limit.

  5. Unreimbursed Medical Expenses — This exception covers medical expenses in excess of 7.5% of your adjusted gross income.

  6. Medical Insurance — This permits the unemployed to pay for medical insurance if they meet specific criteria.

  7. Higher Education Expenses — Funds may be used to cover higher education expenses for you, your spouse, children, or grandchildren. Only certain institutions and associated expenses are permitted.

  8. IRS Levy — Funds may be used to pay an IRS levy.

  9. Active Duty Call-Up — Funds may be used by reservists called up after 9/11/01, and whose withdrawals meet the definition of qualified reservist distributions.

1. In most circumstances, once you reach age 73, you must begin taking required minimum distributions from a Traditional Individual Retirement Account (IRA). You may continue to contribute to a Traditional IRA past age 70½ as long as you meet the earned-income requirement.
2. Distributions to a non-spouse beneficiary are generally required to be distributed by the end of the 10th calendar year following the year of the Individual Retirement Account (IRA) owner's death. The new rule does not require the non-spouse beneficiary to take withdrawals during the 10-year period. But all the money must be withdrawn by the end of the 10th calendar year following the inheritance. A surviving spouse of the IRA owner, disabled or chronically ill individuals, individuals who are not more than 10 years younger than the IRA owner, and a child of the IRA owner who has not reached the age of majority may have other minimum distribution requirements.
3. Investopedia.com, December 24, 2023
4. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Federal and state laws and regulations are subject to change, which may have an impact on after-tax investment returns. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation.

The content is developed from sources believed to be providing accurate information. The information in this material is not intended as tax or legal advice. It may not be used for the purpose of avoiding any federal tax penalties. Please consult legal or tax professionals for specific information regarding your individual situation. This material was developed and produced by FMG Suite to provide information on a topic that may be of interest. FMG Suite is not affiliated with the named broker-dealer, state- or SEC-registered investment advisory firm. The opinions expressed and material provided are for general information, and should not be considered a solicitation for the purchase or sale of any security. Copyright 2024 FMG Suite.

10.  A Fruitful Retirement: Social Security Benefit

Taking your Social Security benefits at the right time may help maximize your benefit.How to avoid individual retirement account deduction mistakes

Published Wed, Oct 6 20219:42 AM EDT

Kate Dore, CFP®

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Key Points

·         Some investors may score a federal write-off for their traditional individual retirement account contributions up to a limit.  

·         However, the tax break depends on participating in a workplace retirement plan, such as a 401(k) plans or pension, and income.

·         Those who can’t deduct their IRA contributions may have other options, financial experts say. 

·         As the year winds down, those looking to trim their tax bill may consider an individual retirement account contribution. Before transferring the funds, however, there are rules and limits investors need to know, financial experts say.

·         “Anyone can contribute to a traditional IRA — you, me, Jeff Bezos,” said certified financial planner Howard Pressman, partner at Egan, Berger & Weiner in Vienna, Virginia. 

·         However, the ability to write off IRA contributions depends on two factors: participation in workplace retirement plans and income.

11. How to Pay Off Debt Fast: 7 Tips

Find ways to free up cash in your budget and bump up your income, then explore strategies for paying down balances.

Many, or all, of the products featured on this page are from our advertising partners who compensate us when you take certain actions on our website or click to take an action on their website. However, this does not influence our evaluations. Our opinions are our own. Here is a list of our partners and here's how we make money.

Updated Feb 9, 2023 · 1 min read

Written by Sean Pyles

Edited by Kathy Hinson

Lead Assigning Editor

·         Figure out your budget

·         Reduce your spending

·         Stop using your credit cards

·         Look for extra income and cash

·         Find a payoff method you'll stick with

Want to pay off your debt fast? Here are seven tips that can help:Figure out your budget

Getting a handle on your income and expenses can you help you figure out if you have any extra money to pay down your debt. Paying more than the minimum each month can speed up your payoff timeline.

While you’re focusing on debt payoff, work to build an emergency fund. Even a small one can prevent you from getting deeper into debt if an unexpected expense comes up. (Read more about how to save while paying off debt.)

Use this calculator to figure out your budget.Reduce your spending

Every dollar counts, really. Cutting down expenses, such as streaming services, ordering delivery for dinner or ditching an expensive phone, can add up fast.

Consider what you would give up in order to be debt-free.Stop using your credit cards

Halting your debt from growing any larger can make it easier to manage. One way is to stop using your credit cards.

Not adding onto the balance while you’re paying down debt can also help improve your credit utilization — or the ratio of your debt balance to your available credit — which is a major factor in calculating your credit score. The lower your credit utilization, the better it reflects on your credit score.Look for extra income and cash

Scraping together extra income can increase how much you can put toward your debt, accelerating your payoff.

Look into legitimate side hustles. Some jobs can be completed in less than an hour, like user testing for websites and apps. Others, like freelancing, will take longer, but may earn you more cash.

Finding extra cash can help fuel paydown, too. And you consider using some or all of a windfall, such as a tax refund or work bonus, to make a lump-sum payment on debt.Find a payoff method you'll stick with

Paying off debt is a financial and psychological commitment. Just as you have to have the cash to pay down what you owe, you also have to find a payoff method that works for you.

If some quick small wins early in the process will help you stay motivated, the debt snowball method may be right for you. With this tactic, you put all the extra money you can toward paying your smallest debt first (while covering at least the minimums on your other debts). When it's paid off, you roll the money that had been going to the first debt into paying the next-biggest, and so on, until all your debts are paid off.

But if you're more into delayed gratification and maybe saving a little money, the debt avalanche method may be for you. With this strategy, you focus on paying off the debt with the highest interest rate first. Always focusing on wiping out the debt with the highest interest costs can save you money overall and may also speed your debt-free date.Look into debt consolidation

Rolling multiple debts into one payment — ideally with a lower interest rate — through debt consolidation can make your debt easier to manage and less expensive overall. The less you have to pay in interest, the more money you can put toward reducing the underlying debt.

A 0% interest balance transfer credit card or a debt consolidation loan are two solid options for debt consolidation. Note that you’ll likely need a good credit score to qualify. Also, each lender sets its own requirements, and credit score may be just one piece of the puzzle.Know when to call it quits

Sometimes debt can be too much. If you're having a hard time keeping up with your debt payments and your total debt is greater than 50% of your gross annual income, it might be time to get outside help.

Debt relief options, like debt management plans from a nonprofit credit counseling agency and bankruptcy, may give you the relief you need to move past your debts. Otherwise, paying off what you owe could take years and get in the way of other financial goals, like saving for retirement or a down payment on a house.

12.  How to Talk About Money with Your Children or Grandchildren           

Atlanta Falcons linebacker and Kiplinger contributing editor Brandon Copeland discusses how to engage with children on spending, investing and other money topics.

What's up, everybody? This is Brandon Copeland, AKA Professor Cope. And you are now tuned in to another very special … very, very, very special … very, very, very special episode of Cope'ing With Money.

On this episode of Cope'ing With Money, it is time for us to stop beating around the bush, stop playing around, and have serious, serious conversations – serious conversations about the constants in life, the things that we know we are going to be faced with at some point: money.

The "Real" Cost of Buying a Home

We're not talking about it in school. We're not talking about it in our homes. We're not talking about it on social media. (Well, some people are talking about it, and then some people are talking about it a lot.) But what are we doing as parents to make sure that we are setting our children up for strong financial futures?

For me, my goal is to make sure that my son uses and understands that money is his employee and it is his tool. The work that I'm doing today is for him. (Hey, please, Bryson, if you're listening, don't spend it all in one place.)

Regardless of your income level or what tax bracket you're in, it is our job as parents and leaders of our households to equip our children with the information that they need to be successful in navigating money as an adult.

Contributing - Personal & Business

**Reinventing Your Purpose: Embracing New Opportunities**

As we journey through life, changes are inevitable. Children grow up, friends relocate, and our physical capabilities evolve. With these changes, it's vital to reinvent your purpose and explore new opportunities for contributing to society. This reinvention involves embracing new activities and discovering fresh ways to engage in them.

Start by reflecting on your passions: what have you always wished to pursue? This could be the perfect time to immerse yourself in interests that have long been on your horizon. Engagement in purposeful activities not only keeps us busy but also imbues our lives with meaning and satisfaction.

For those with business acumen, perhaps starting a small enterprise or delving deeper into entrepreneurship is an inviting avenue. Senior entrepreneurs can benefit significantly from updating their communication skills, especially in utilizing social media platforms effectively.

Moreover, incorporating enjoyable activities into your routine can fill your time with joy and fulfillment. Whether it's participating in sports like golf or hiking, or nurturing artistic talents in painting or photography, finding what excites you is key.

Lastly, consider filling your time with volunteering. Joining community service clubs such as the Rotary or Lions Club not only aids others but also strengthens communal bonds. By reinventing your purpose, you not only enhance your life, but also make meaningful contributions to society.

**Fulfilling Your Time through Enjoyable Activities**

As retirement approaches or daily responsibilities shift, you may find yourself with more free time. This newfound time is an excellent opportunity to seek activities that truly resonate with your interests and enrich your life, thereby contributing indirectly to society through personal fulfillment.

Sports offer a fantastic way to keep active while enjoying social interactions. Activities such as tennis, pickleball, or cycling not only keep you physically fit but also encourage community building through shared interests. Sports bring people together, fostering friendships and a sense of belonging.

Delving into the arts can be equally rewarding. Whether it’s experimenting with painting, honing photography skills, or trying your hand at pottery, these creative pursuits provide an outlet for self-expression. The process of creating art can be deeply satisfying and may even lead to community exhibitions or workshops where you can share your skills and inspire others.

Exploring such activities broadens your horizons and keeps you engaged. Engaging in sports and arts transforms free time into meaningful experiences. Not only do these activities enhance your personal well-being, but they also create ripple effects in society as you inspire and connect with others through shared passions. Enjoying your time to the fullest is a rewarding way to contribute to the vibrancy of the community around you.

**Making a Difference through Volunteering**

When considering ways to contribute meaningfully to society, volunteering emerges as a powerful and impactful choice. By giving your time and talents to help others, not only do you support the community, but you also enrich your own life.

Volunteering can take many forms. Joining community service organizations like the Rotary or Kiwanis Club allows you to participate in diverse projects dedicated to addressing local needs. Such clubs often organize initiatives ranging from food drives and fundraising events to mentoring programs, offering ample opportunities to get involved and make a tangible difference.

Furthermore, providing volunteer care for family and friends, particularly the elderly or young children, is a profound way to contribute. Acting as a caregiver, especially for grandchildren or elder relatives, not only offers significant emotional support but also lightens the load for busy family members. This selfless service strengthens familial bonds and spreads love, care, and kindness.

Volunteering enriches life through the act of giving back. By investing your time into community service or providing care within your family, you create lasting impacts and leave a positive mark on those around you. Embrace the opportunity to contribute to society through volunteering and bask in the fulfillment it brings.


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