What are some of the fears you have about money? The fears you don’t even talk about with your partner? With your family? To yourself?
Before we can start making progress our financial goals, we have to really understand the things that are holding us back. To start the discussion, below is an excerpt from my book 10 Things College Students Need to Know About Money:
The first step in changing any behavior is recognizing that behavior. Many people don’t really take the time to sit down and think about why they do the things that they do. Let’s take a moment and really think this through. Answer each question honestly, even if only to yourself:
1) Growing up, my parent(s) seemed __________ about money.
2) Growing up, a phrase I heard often about money was __________.
3) My first job was ________________. I used the money to ______________.
4) When I thought about the costs involved with college, I thought I would pay for them by _________.
5) When I’m with friends I feel ________ about money.
6) When I think about managing my money I feel ____________.
7) The thing that concerns me most about money is _________.
8) This amount of money in my bank account would make me feel great _____________.
9) I have that much money now or I’m working towards that goal. Why or why not?
Take a moment to think about these statements and be honest about your experiences. Things may not change overnight, but as you understand your self and your motivations better you’ll be able to make better choices.
Shay Olivarria is the most dynamic financial education speaker working today. She speaks at high schools, colleges, and companies across the country. She has written three books on personal finance, including Amazon Best Seller “Money Matters: The Get It Done in 1 Minute Workbook”. Shay has been quoted on Bankrate.com, FoxBusiness.com, and The Credit Union Times, among others. To schedule Shay to speak at your event visit www.BiggerThanYourBlock.com.
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