You Might Not Know, But You Can Figure It Out

I remember always having an interest in money from a very young age. If I wasn't saving quarters or putting away birthday and graduation gifts, I was depositing more than half of my small (but big to a teenager) paycheck into my personal checking and savings accounts. I knew how to save. It was all I knew.

But here's the thing: I didn't know what I didn't know, and I was hungry to learn more.

The Search for Knowledge

I recall asking knowledgeable individuals about the stock market, investing, and related topics to teach me. But not much was shared with me. I may not recall correctly, but I remember someone telling me that I'd have to learn it on my own. 

I didn't like that response—not one bit. 

But I've always been the type of person who never wanted to depend on others, so maybe that planted a seed. I think it sparked something in me—a real hunger to learn more about investing and to understand how money could work for me beyond just sitting in a savings account.

The Journey

Fast forward many years, and I am now a CFP® professional with extensive knowledge of saving, investing, the market, and much more. I read personal finance books constantly, listen to podcasts, and watch videos. I immerse myself in this world because I genuinely love it.

However, what matters most to me is that I share a lot. Through this blog, pro bono work, and helping friends, family, and anyone willing to listen, I share what I've learned. I think because I was so eager for knowledge and felt like no one was able or willing to share it with me, I want to share with others more than anything.

You Can Figure It Out Too

This post is for those who may feel unsure, confused, or uninformed about finances. I want you to know there is hope.

You don't have to immerse yourself in this stuff the way I did. You don't have to love it as much as I do. You certainly don't have to make it a career. However, you are more than capable of learning what you need to know.

I save. I invest. I spend wisely. I understand these concepts and continue to learn more every day. And if I can do it—starting from a place of not knowing what I didn't know—so can you.

Where to Start

One of the beautiful things about living in this era is that information is readily available everywhere. You have access to:

  • Books: Head to your library or search for highly-rated personal finance books. Start with the basics.
  • Podcasts: Listen while you commute, exercise, or do chores. There are numerous free podcasts that break down financial concepts in plain language.
  • Videos: YouTube is full of financial educators who make complex topics easy to understand.
  • Online Resources: Websites, blogs (like this one!), and forums where people share their experiences and knowledge.
  • Community: Connect with like-minded individuals who are on the same journey. Ask questions. Share what you're learning.

You don't need someone to hold your hand through every step. You don't need to wait for permission or for someone to deem you "ready." You just need to start.

It's not about being perfect. It's not about never making mistakes. It's about being willing to learn, to grow, and to take control of your financial future one step at a time.

You might not know everything right now. That's okay. Neither did I. Neither does anyone when they start.

But you can figure it out. I believe in you.

✨Managing Money Like a Boss is about having the courage to figure it out.✨

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