WHERE DO YOU BEGIN WHEN THE FINANCES FEEL OUT OF CONTROL?

Money is the cause of many fights and much conflict; in fact, money fights and money problems are the top predictor of divorce. This statistic goes across all socioeconomic classes, so it’s not how much money is made but the way it is managed.
 
Money issues are a real problem of our time. That is why the ēCO Credit Union Foundation has committed to the cause of financial literacy, especially in the greater Birmingham area. There are so many adults we have encountered that are eager to learn about paying off debt and saving money- two topics that are among the basics of money management but can be some of the hardest to commit to, especially when financial education is lacking.
 
In the digital age we live in, we are lucky to have access to endless amount of resources to look to for help with financial literacy. While we could name various programs and mobile apps, it will all depend on your preference and goals as to which one will work best. Simply pull up a search engine, and type in “money management tools”; hopefully, there will be a good option to fit your goals from the more than 23 million options that pull up! Also, the Foundation has a free cash flow planning worksheet. Fill out the information on this page, and indicate that you would like the worksheet emailed to you.
 
However, programs and mobile apps will not do all of the work; there has to be drive and motivation to get started on making a difference in your financial future. It will take a lot of hard work and organization to begin any of these programs. But take it from me: Once the hard work of finding out where you stand is over, it’s easier to begin making goals and sticking to the plan!
 
Being financially literate is power. Knowing about your money can change not only your future, but generations to come. Be the beginning of a new start.
 
If you are ready to get started on knowing more about your finances, it’s never too late to begin! Comment below to ask questions or suggest a topic that interests you. If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to email [email protected]. And finally, if you believe in our cause of increasing financial literacy, especially in the Birmingham metro area, click on a donate button anywhere on our website or go to our “Donate” tab for more information. Stay tuned for our #givefinancialfreedom initiative on November 28 for Giving Tuesday!