Clear strategies
Prices will continue to inflate.
Gas prices will continue to fluctuate unfairly.
Housing will increasingly become “less affordable.”
Food prices will continue to rise to unrealistic prices.
Instead of stressing over it, focus on creating a robust financial shield against economic shifts.
Remember When Gas Used To Be Less Than $1?
I doubt we will ever reach that point again, plus electric cars are becoming more and more popular — eventually, gas will phase out (even if it takes forever).
Most things used to be a heck of a lot cheaper.
As time passes, we notice constant price increases.
But is your wallet increasing with it? And I don’t mean your standard raise, which usually equals 3–4% of your income.
How often are you increasing your income by double-digit percentages or more?
Most people are barely increasing their income by 3%, which means they are at a higher risk of contracting financial stress due to economic and market shifts and inflation.
What Does Financial Agility Look Like?
There are a few ways you can certainly increase your financial agility, and here they are:
– Maintain more than one primary source of income.
– Decrease and eliminate your debt load.
– Prioritize low-cost living.
– Consistently invest.
– Financial education.
1. Primary Income?
That’s right. I no longer recommend having partial additional income sources. It’s all about that secondary income that brings in primary income levels.
By having multiple primary income sources, you’re always financially prepared and safeguarded from economic pivots.
2. What Would Your Budget Look Like Without Debt Payments?
If you had no debt balances, how much more money would you have left each month?
Some people’s answers might be “hundreds,” and others “thousands.”
Debt repayments add up with a quickness.
Certain types of debt work in your favor, but many people don’t use debt to their advantage.
Instead, they utilize it to obtain liabilities like cars, tech gadgets, fashion, and other frivolous purchases (e.g., amazon binges).
3. Six Figures. Same Car. 400k Miles.
A doctor recently told me he’s been driving the same car, which now has over 400k miles on it. He has money, yet what does he do with it?
Well, he doesn’t spend it on cars, which helps him maintain financial agility.
Cars are one of the most costly expenses. A mechanic praised a customer for keeping their car. He said, “This is what many of the wealthy do. They don’t invest their money in cars; they invest it into assets.”
Assets create wealth.
Liabilities create depleted or lower bank account balances.
4. If I Could Go Back And Change One Thing
While loading up my emergency fund, I put investing on the back-burner.
Here’s what I would’ve done instead:
Focus solely on investing and put my emergency fund into a solid interest-bearing investment account.
Yes, it would not have been as liquid and accessible as many recommend you do for your emergency fund, but it would have propelled me financially.
5. Never Stop Learning
Self-education is the single most powerful tool to elevate your financial status.
The more you learn, the greater you increase your odds of success, when you apply the information.
Never think you know enough.
Never think you know it all.
Stay humble.
Look stupid.
Ask questions.
Keep learning.
Money is an ever changing game, which requires fresh insights and education.
Remember, when you know better, you do better.
—
Get your finances in order with a rapid audit
This article is for informational purposes only. It should not be considered Financial or Legal Advice. Not all information will be accurate. Consult a financial professional before making any major financial decisions.