Three Financial Principles: The Key to Long-Term Success and Freedom💰🚀

In 2016, my second year working in the US, I calculated my financial freedom number using the 4% rule and hit that milestone by 2021. I didn’t overthink it at the time, but people often ask me how I did it. Here's the simple truth: when it comes to managing money and building a secure and fulfilling life, I always remind myself of these three core principles. These aren't just rules I follow—they’re a mindset that helps me navigate life's twists and turns with confidence. 🌟

1. Live Below Your Means (or have a long-term plan to start doing so) 💸

This is the cornerstone of financial stability. It doesn’t matter how much you make if you’re constantly spending more than you earn. The secret? Spend less than you make—or at least have a plan in place so you know where you're headed. Life can get hectic, so having a cushion for bumps in the road is essential. It’s a survival skill anyone should start building as early as possible.

Having a long-term plan means you don't have to strain yourself if your situation is only temporary: raising a baby, taking a career break, going back to school, starting a business, etc. Knowing where you’re heading and having a Plan B in case things don’t go as planned is key. The goal is peace of mind, knowing you won't derail no matter what life throws your way. 📅

2. Keep Investing Through the Highs and Lows 📈

The stock market can be a rollercoaster ride. And we’ve all felt it. But here’s the thing: the rollercoaster doesn’t stop! That’s why I’m a big believer in staying committed to investing, no matter how the market behaves. Whether stocks are booming or crashing, sticking to the right investment strategy is crucial.

Keep calm and stay invested. If you’ve got a long-term strategy (think decades, not days), those dips in the market can actually work in your favor. If you continue investing consistently, you’ll be positioned for success when the market rises again. So, don’t panic and don’t try to time the market— stay the course, and you’ll get where you want to go. 🌍💪

3. Increase Your Skills and Align Your Passion with What You Do 💼🎓

Money comes and goes, but skills stick with you for life. If you want to increase your earning potential, keep investing in yourself. It’ll set you apart in your career and open doors to opportunities others won't get access to. Focus on two core skills: sales/networking and continuous learning.

As you become more established in your field and have a fuller understanding of your strengths and natural interests, make sure your work aligns with your passion. When you love what you do, work doesn’t feel like work and can be creative. It leads to better performance and higher pay. So, focus on developing skills that light you up. Whether it’s a career pivot, gaining new certifications, or even starting a side hustle, investing in yourself will always pay off in the long run.💥

The Flow Chart of Financial Success 🧮

Now that we’ve covered the basics, let's get practical! I’ve created a flow chart to help you navigate common financial priorities and keep you on track. Check it out, and let’s dive into how to apply it to your life!
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Flow Chart Explanation:

• * If you're struggling with debt: consider organizations such as National Foundation for Credit Counseling (NFCC), American Consumer Credit Counseling (ACCC), GreenPath Financial Wellness, Money Management International (MMI), Take Charge America, Operation HOPE, etc.
• If you’re feeling stuck at A through D, and haven’t made enough progress with things like budgeting or saving, it might be time to get some expert help. A financial coach or financial therapist can help you work through tough financial stuff and provide the guidance you need to move forward.
• If you’re aiming to level up on E through H, it’s time to take control and educate yourself. Resources like 3rd Decade, Savvy Ladies, Financial Beginnings, and Banzai offer great tools to sharpen your financial skills and knowledge.
• For tackling I or J, you might need a mentor, or two. Mentors can help you grow in your career and entrepreneurship, but if you're feeling like you need more support, consider hiring a result-driven career or startup coach to give you the extra push.
• If procrastination is holding you back on K, a fee-only comprehensive financial planner can be a game-changer. Look for one at trusted networks like Garrett Planning Network, NAPFA, or Advice-Only Network. A professional can give you the structure and accountability you need to tackle the big financial topics and get on track.

Wrapping Up: Keep Going, Keep Growing 🌱

Managing finances is about mindset, strategy, and consistently taking small steps toward bigger goals. Live below your means, invest regularly, and grow into your passion. Financial freedom isn’t a sprint; it’s a marathon. With these principles, you’ll be ready to handle the ups and downs with confidence. Start today, and make sure every financial decision you make brings you one step closer to the life you want.

More to Come 📚

This content is from Chapter Six of my new book in progress - The Power of US: Transforming Your Relationships and Money, which blends real-world stories, insightful conversations, practical knowledge, and exercises designed to help couples connect on a deeper level and get on the same page with their finances. When you communicate better about your emotions, you can make more confident and smarter money decisions together! 💡

Mark your calendars for August 19th, 2025—that’s when the book is officially launching! Stay tuned for more updates and insights on how you can transform your relationships and money! 🚀

#FinancialFreedom #NewBook #ThePowerOfUs #CouplesandMoney #WealthBuilding

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