Ep. 113 - FINANCIAL WELLNESS AND MENTAL HEALTH

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 Welcome to the Merging Life and Money Show, the live show and podcast dedicated to helping professional women achieve financial wellness by merging the emotional and practical sides of money. I am so glad you are here for today's enlightening discussion on an important topic financial wellness and mental health. You see, our financial decisions, habits, and challenges can have a major effect on our psychological wellbeing, which is why I am taking this moment to recognize the last week of Financial Literacy Month. This important annual celebration is all about empowering individuals with the knowledge they need to make informed and effective financial choices. So today I will be uncovering the intersection between financial wellness and mental health by delving into the effects of financial stress on our emotional state. I will also explore how understanding the connection between money and mental health can help you manage your finances healthily. I will also look at practical strategies for reducing financial stress. So welcome to the merging Life in Money show.

 

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Before I get into it, let me introduce myself. Hi everyone. I am your host, Marie-Jo Caesar. Make sure to tune in every Thursday at 07:00 p.m. Pacific Standard Time for a live broadcast with yours truly. I am here to give you the knowledge, skills, motivation, and enthusiasm you need to achieve financial wellness and live your life with means and meaning. Throughout this month, I dealt with topics related to financial literacy since April is Financial Literacy Month. Thank you for tuning in today.

 

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So before we begin, why don't you grab a beverage of your choice, make yourself comfy. It is going to be an important insightful episode, a bit long. Get a hold of a pen and a notebook so you can take some notes and discuss them later with family members, friends, colleagues, neighbors, and more. And if you are tuning in from iTunes, Spotify, Google Podcasts, iHeartRadio, or any other major podcast platform, thank you. Thank you for being here with me today. I am delighted to have you. So let's get going. As you may know, this show's main objective is to empower you with the knowledge and tools you need to achieve financial wellness.

 

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And today I will be uncovering the vital connection between financial wellness and mental health. A huge topic these days. When it comes to our finances. It is important to understand that money does not just affect our bank account, as it also severely impacts our emotional wellbeing. Today, I want to give you the insight and tools needed to build a healthier relationship with your money and your finances. Therefore, in this engaging episode, I will explore three transformative aspects of financial wellness and mental health. First, I will explore the impact of financial stress on mental health, shedding light on its far-reaching effects. Next, I will discuss the importance of financial literacy for emotional wellbeing, revealing how knowledge empowers you to face financial challenges with confidence.

 

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And finally, I will introduce the concept of mindful money management and will provide you with practical tips for cultivating a healthy relationship with money. So stay tuned as I uncover these vital topics, giving you the tools and strategies you need to achieve a balanced and fulfilling financial life that supports both your material needs and emotional wellbeing. So, before I get any further, let me give the show some context. In today's fast-paced world, the demands of personal finance can be overwhelming, and navigating the complexities of financial decisions can take a toll on our mental health. That is where the show comes in. I'm here to shed light on the often-overlooked relationship between financial wellness and mental health. So through insightful discussions, expert advice, and practical strategies, I will help you understand how to create a harmonized and fulfilling financial life that not only meets your material needs but also supports your emotional wellbeing. As noted, a few moments ago, I will look into the world of personal finance with a focus on mental health empowering you to take control of your financial journey with confidence, resilience, and a deeper understanding of the vital connection between money and happiness.

 

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So let's come together to break down barriers, demystify personal finance, and create a community that supports one another on the path to financial wellness and mental health. This leads me to the first point of today's show. The impact of financial stress on mental health. If you are feeling overwhelmed by your finances, let me tell you, you are not alone. Financial stress is a common experience, one that can have a profound effect on our emotional wellbeing. Today, I'm here to impart the insight and knowledge needed to combat it. So let's find out how financial stress impacts mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. And let's uncover effective strategies for managing it.

 

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Because when you understand this important relationship, you should be able to navigate these turbulent waters and find a sense of balance in your financial lives. First, let's talk about a topic that affects us all financial stress and its impact on our mental health. So when it comes to managing your finances, it is easy to feel overwhelmed and anxious. And constant worry can take a toll on your emotional wellbeing. Let me repeat that when it comes to suffering from financial challenges, you are not alone. It is natural to feel anxious or depressed when you are struggling to keep up with bills and payments. But the good news is that there are ways to mitigate these feelings and regain control over your financial life and emotional wellbeing. So let's dive into research statistics that draw our attention to the prevalence of financial stress and its influence on overall happiness.

 

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The fact is that understanding the psychological impact of financial stress can help you develop effective strategies to relieve its burden on your emotional health. Let's look at some telling statistics. A study conducted by the American psychological association, or APA, in 2020 revealed that 72% of Americans reported feeling stressed about money at least some of the time, with 20% experiencing extreme financial stress. And the same study indicated that financial stress is a significant source of strain on relationships, with nearly one-third of adults citing money as a major cause of conflict in their partnerships. Moreover, research from the Federal Reserve has shown that individuals with higher levels of financial stress are more likely to experience symptoms of depression and anxiety. Financial stress is also associated with poor physical health, including an increased risk of heart disease and other stress-related illnesses. Another study by Northwestern Mutual found that financial anxiety could have a lasting effect on an individual's wellbeing. Participants reported that financial stress affected their happiness, leading to reduced social interaction, negative impacts on personal relationships, and diminished overall life satisfaction.

 

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These research findings and statistics highlight the critical need to address financial stress and its influence on our emotional wellbeing. By taking the necessary steps to reduce financial stress, you can improve your mental health and overall happiness, thus creating a more balanced and fulfilling life. And by grasping the connection between financial stress and mental health, you will be better equipped to recognize the signs of financial stress in your own life and develop effective strategies to manage it. Empower yourself with knowledge and take control of your financial wellbeing to pave the way for a happier and more emotionally balanced life. So how do I take control of my financial wellbeing? You might ask. A little later in the episode, I will talk about the steps to take for managing stress effectively. Now I would like to explain the connection to mental health issues such as anxiety and depression. It is essential to understand how financial stress can directly impact your emotional wellbeing.

 

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It can create or exacerbate mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, leaving you feeling overwhelmed, helpless, and emotionally drained. The burden of financial stress can create a constant state of worry, leading to anxiety as you try to juggle mounting debts, meet financial obligations, or cope with the uncertainty of your financial future. This anxiety can interfere with your daily life, affecting your work performance, your relationships, and even your physical health. Also, financial stress can contribute to feelings of depression. The sense of failure and helplessness that often accompanies financial struggles can leave you feeling demoralized and isolated. So the impact of these struggles on your self-esteem and self-worth may also intensify feelings of sadness and hopelessness. I will tell you that the challenge is to recognize a connection between financial stress and mental health issues like anxiety and depression because once you identify it, you can take proactive steps to address the root causes of your financial challenges and develop coping strategies to alleviate their effects on your emotional wellbeing. I would therefore urge you to empower yourself with knowledge and take control of your financial life to pave the way for improved mental health and overall happiness.

 

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And as I seek to understand the prevalence of financial stress and its impact on wellbeing, I must take into consideration the data, the compelling research findings, and statistics that illustrate the widespread nature of this issue. It is only when you grasp the scope of financial stress that you can better appreciate the need for effective strategies that manage it and mitigate its effects on your emotional wellbeing. So, here are some additional statistics related to financial stress and its impact on mental health and wellbeing. A 2019 PwC Employees Financial Wellness Survey found that 59% of employees cited financial or money matters as their top source of stress, significantly surpassing other stressors like work 15% health concerns 12%, and relationships. 10% and according to a 2018 study by the American Psychological Association, almost two-thirds of Americans 64% reported that money was a significant source of stress in their lives. The same study found that financial stress was higher among parents, younger adults ages 18 to 49, and those living in lower-income households. A 2018 Financial Finesse Report revealed that employees experiencing high or overwhelming financial stress were more likely to report health issues, with 44% reporting depression, 65% experiencing anxiety, and 71% suffering from sleep problems. A 2017 study published in the Journal of Finance Therapy revealed that financial stress is associated with increased psychological distress, reduced life satisfaction, and poor physical health.

 

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The study also found that financial stress contributed to an increased likelihood of engaging in unhealthy coping behaviors, such as overeating, smoking, and excessive alcohol consumption. I also looked at an article published online in February 2022 by the National Library of Medicine about the relationships between financial worries and psychological distress among US adults. The article reviewed the association between financial worries and psychological distress highlighting certain socioeconomic factors, and it found a significant link between financial concerns and psychological distress, with disadvantaged populations being more vulnerable to mental health issues due to a lack of coping resources. For instance, it was found that women are more likely to experience psychological distress due to financial worries than men. They found that married individuals generally have better mental health outcomes and financial wellbeing compared to unmarried individuals. They also found that higher education can buffer the negative effect of financial worries on psychological distress as more educated individuals are more likely to know how to avoid it and cope with adverse situations. Employment status is also crucial as it provides income and social networks that support both economic and mental health wellbeing.

 

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Homeowners and those in higher income households will generally have better access to health care services and are financially less vulnerable, which can protect them against the negative effect of financial voice on mental health. I will say that these statistical data emphasize the significant impact financial stress has on mental health and wellbeing, highlighting the importance of addressing financial concerns and developing effective coping strategies. And as you navigate the complexities of personal finance, it is so important to identify the signs of financial stress early on, enabling you to take proactive steps to manage it and protect your emotional wellbeing. So here is a list of indicators that will help you identify financial stress and take the necessary measures to alleviate it, so pay close attention to them. One. Persistent Worry about Money. If you find yourself consistently worrying about paying bills, meeting financial obligations, or facing an uncertain financial future, this could be a sign that financial stress is taking a toll on your mental health. Two. Mood Swings and Irritability. Financial stress can cause emotional turbulence, leading, as I just said, to mood swings, increased irritability, and heightened sensitivity to minor setbacks or stressors. Three. Sleep Disturbances, difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking up throughout the night, or experiencing nightmares related to financial issues are all potential signs of financial stress impacting your wellbeing. Four. Physical Symptoms. Financial stress can manifest itself physically through headaches, muscle tension, fatigue, or even gastrointestinal issues.

 

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Five. Avoidance Behaviors. If you find yourself procrastinating on addressing financial matters, ignoring bills, or avoiding discussions about money with your partners, these behaviors may indicate underlying financial stress. Six. Unhealthy Coping Mechanism. As I mentioned earlier when you turn to excessive eating, smoking, alcohol consumption, or other harmful habits as means of coping with financial stresses, another warning sign is that your wellbeing may be compromised. Pay close attention to your behavior, because by recognizing these signs of financial stress, you can take action to address the root causes and develop healthy coping strategies to support your emotional and financial wellbeing. So remember that seeking help from a financial professional or therapist can provide valuable guidance and support in managing financial stress effectively. So, before addressing the second point of today's episode, I would like to talk about some strategies that you can adopt to manage financial stress effectively. Because effectively managing financial stress is essential for safeguarding your mental and emotional wellbeing. So here are a few strategies that can help you relieve financial stress and regain control of your financial life. Create a Budget. Developing a comprehensive budget is the first step towards regaining control over your finances.

 

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By tracking your income and expenses, you can identify areas where you can cut back, allocate funds more effectively and establish a solid foundation for financial stability. Set Financial Goals. Establishing clear, attainable financial goals can provide direction and motivation as you work to improve your situation. So make sure to break down your goals into smaller actionable steps and celebrate your progress along the way. Another one is Building an Emergency Fund. Having a financial cushion in the form of an emergency fund can help reduce financial stress by providing a safety net for unexpected expenses or even income loss. So aim to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses in a readily accessible account. Prioritize debt Repayment develop a plan to tackle your debt focusing on the high-interest debt first. Consider options such as debt consolidation, balance transfers, or negotiating with some creditors to reduce interest rates and create a manageable repayment plan.

 

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Increasing financial Literacy it's a must. Invest time in learning about personal finance topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, and debt management. By increasing your financial knowledge, you will be better equipped to make informed decisions and reduce financial stress. Seek professional Help if you are struggling to manage financial stress on your own, consider seeking the assistance of a financial professional or a credit counselor. These professionals can provide guidance and support tailored to your unique financial situation. Practice self-care and stress reduction. Incorporate stress reduction techniques such as exercise, meditation, and deep breathing exercises into your daily routine. Also, prioritize self-care and make time for activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Trust me, by implementing these strategies, you can effectively manage financial stress and protect your emotional wellbeing, paving the way to a more harmonized and fulfilling financial life.

 

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Now, let's look at the second point the importance of financial literacy for emotional wellbeing. Gaining financial literacy can have a positive effect on both your financial health and emotional wellbeing. Through learning the key component of personal finance, you will gain the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions and have a better understanding of how to manage your money. I talked about that before. This deepened understanding can result in improved control over your finances, enhancing your overall sense of stability. I will add that with this new fund inside, you will be in a better position to make decisions in alignment with your values and your goals, leading to greater satisfaction with your financial life and ultimately bringing more peace of mind. So how does financial literacy help in improving both personal outcomes and emotional wellbeing? Let me first talk about the benefits of financial literacy in promoting emotional wellbeing and self-confidence. As discussed in previous episodes this month, make sure to check them out.

 

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Financial literacy is a powerful tool that can significantly impact your emotional wellbeing and self-confidence. Therefore, by equipping yourself with the knowledge and skills to manage your finances effectively, you will enjoy a range of benefits that extend beyond your financial life. One. Reduce financial stress. As you become more financially literate, you will gain a better understanding of how to budget, how save, and how to invest, which will alleviate financial stress and promote a sense of control and stability in your life. Two. Improve decision-making. Financial literacy enables you to make informed decisions regarding your money, such as choosing the right investment options, managing debt, and planning for your future. This sense of empowerment can bolster your self-confidence and overall emotional wellbeing. Three. Greater independence and Self Sufficiency: A strong foundation in financial literacy helps you become more self-reliant, giving you the tools and confidence to navigate financial challenges and setbacks without depending on others. Four Life Satisfaction Studies have shown that individuals with higher financial literacy levels report greater life satisfaction as they are better equipped to manage their finances and achieve their financial goals.

 

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Five. Enhanced Relationships financial literacy definitely can also improve your relationships as it equips you with the skills to communicate effectively about money, set shared financial goals, and foster a healthy financial dynamic with your partner or your family members. So by investing time and effort in building your financial literacy, you will not only secure a more stable financial future, but also experience a profound impact on your emotional wellbeing and self-confidence. Therefore, embrace the journey toward financial empowerment and enjoy the benefits it brings to your life. Now, let's talk about the key components of financial literacy. As I know last week and I will refer to the past shows in April, financial literacy encompasses a range of essential skills and knowledge that empower you to make informed decisions about your money. And as you work toward improving your financial literacy, it is important to focus on these key components. Budgeting-Learning to create and maintain a budget is fundamental for effective money management. So by tracking your income and expenses, you can allocate your resources wisely, ensuring that your financial needs are met and your financial goals are within reach.

 

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Two. Saving-Developing a good saving habits is crucial to building a sound financial foundation. Setting aside a portion of your income for an emergency fund, retirement, or specific financial goals allows you to plan and be prepared for unexpected expenses. Three. Investing - Understanding the basics of investing can help you grow your wealth over time. So familiarize yourself with various investment options such as stocks, bonds, and mutual funds, and learn how to assess the risks and potential return associated with each option. Four. Debt Management-Effectively managing debt is essential for maintaining financial stability and reducing financial stress. So learn strategies for prioritizing debt repayment, negotiating with creditors, and consolidating debt to minimize interest costs and pay off your obligations more efficiently. I promise you, by focusing on these key components of financial literacy, you will equip yourself with the skills and knowledge necessary to navigate your financial journey with confidence. So remember that the path to financial literacy is a lifelong learning process.

 

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So always seek opportunities to expand your understanding and adapt to your evolving financial circumstances. Now, before moving on to the third and last point of today's episode, let's make sure to celebrate the last week of Financial Literacy Month by sharing resources and initiatives to improve financial knowledge and skills. So as we celebrate the last week of Financial Literacy Month, it is a fantastic opportunity to explore resources and initiatives that can help you improve your financial knowledge and skills. Here are some valuable resources to consider. Many organizations and educational institutions offer free or low-cost online courses and webinars covering various personal finance topics from budgeting to investing. Examples include Coursera, Udemy, and your local community college. Two there's a wealth of personal finance books and eBooks available, providing in-depth guidance on money management, investing, and financial planning. Some of the popular titles include Money Makeover by Dave Ramsay, Get Good With Money by Tiffany Aliche, and Rich Dad Poor Dad by Robert Kiyosaki. Three. Podcast and YouTube channels focused on personal finance can offer valuable insights and practical advice in an engaging format.

 

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Examples include the Tony Robbins podcast, this podcast, Merging Life and Money Show, and the Financial Diet YouTube channel. Four. Many financial experts and organizations maintain blogs and websites offering a plethora of articles, tools, and resources on personal finance topics. So check out websites like NerdWallet, Investopedia, and the Balance. Five. Utilize financial apps and tools to help you budget, save, invest, and manage debt more effectively. Examples include Mint, YNAB (You Need A Budget), and Personal Capital. Do your homework before choosing the app that will work for you, because they all have different features, so select the one that will help you meet your objectives. Six. Keep an eye out for workshops and seminars on personal finance topics offered by local organizations such as the Chamber of Commerce, for example, libraries or community centers.

 

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So these events can provide an opportunity to learn from experts and connect with others who share your financial goals. Another one would be Government resources. Government agencies such as the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau or the CFPB and the Financial Literacy and Education Commission offer resources and initiatives aimed at improving financial literacy among the general public. So by leveraging these resources and initiatives, you can deepen your financial knowledge and enhance your skills, setting the stage for a more secure and fulfilling financial future. So celebrate Financial Literacy Month by taking action and investing in your financial education today. So now to the third and final point of today's show. In this final segment, I will turn your attention to the concept of mindful money Management a powerful approach to cultivating a healthy relationship with money. So by incorporating mindfulness into your financial practices, you can strike a balance between your financial goals and your emotional wellbeing.

 

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So I'm going to explore the principles of mindful money management, discuss its role in fostering a harmonized financial life, and share actionable tips for embracing value to approach spending, saving, and investing. Although I talked about it in last week's show, I will address it again as it is an approach to personal finance that encourages you to become more aware of your financial habits, attitudes, and emotions. It is important to note that by incorporating mindfulness into your financial practices, you can develop a deeper understanding of your relationship with money and make more conscious and intentional choices that align with your values and goals. This holistic approach to personal finance goes beyond simply tracking numbers and focuses on fostering a healthy and harmonized financial life. By becoming more present and engaging with your financial decisions, you can better recognize patterns, identify areas for improvement, and ensure that your financial actions align with your long-term vision. As you embark on your journey toward Mindful Money Management, remember that it is not just about dollars and cents. It's about cultivating a meaningful and fulfilling relationship with money that supports your overall wellbeing and your happiness. Now, I would like to discuss the role of Mindful Money Management in promoting an integrated or harmonized financial life.

 

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Mindful Money Management plays a vital role in promoting what I call a harmonized financial life by encouraging you to develop a deeper connection with your financial habits and emotions. So when you embrace mindfulness in your financial practices, you can experience several benefits that contribute to a more harmonious relationship with money. The first one that comes to mind is increased self-awareness. Mindful Money Management helps you become more attuned to your financial habits, emotions, and motivations, allowing you to make more informed and intentional decisions that support your financial wellbeing. Two. Alignment with personal values by incorporating mindfulness into your financial life, you ensure that your financial actions align with your core values and long-term goals, which in turn fosters a sense of fulfillment and purpose in your financial journey. Three. Reduced impulsive spending practicing mindfulness can help you become more aware of your spending triggers and curb impulsive purchases, which leads to more intentional spending habits that support your financial goals. Four. Enhanced emotional resilience. Mindful Money Management encourages you to approach financial setbacks and challenges with greater emotional resilience. So in doing so, you can navigate this situation with a sense of calm and perspective.

 

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And five. Improved communication and relationships. It is a fact that by cultivating mindfulness in your financial life, you can foster more open and effective communication about money matters with your partner or family members, leading to healthier financial dynamics in your relationships. So when all is said and done, when you embrace the principles of mindful money management, you can create an integrated financial life that not only supports your material needs but also nurtures your emotional wellbeing, personal values, and relationships. And as mentioned before, cultivating a healthy relationship with money is essential for a harmonized financial life and overall emotional wellbeing. So here are eight tips to help you foster a positive connection with your finances. Let me say that I addressed some of these tips last week as I was talking about financial discipline, which indicates the importance of such values. One. Set clear and achievable financial goals that reflect your values and priorities. You will find out that by defining your objectives, you create a roadmap that guides your financial decisions and provides motivation to stay on track.

 

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Two. Cultivate an attitude of gratitude by regularly acknowledging the positive aspects of your financial life, such as your accomplishments, the resources available to you, and your support systems. This practice helps you maintain a balanced perspective and fosters contentment. Three. Embrace a value-based approach to spending and saving. The reason is that when you align your spending and saving habits with your core values and priorities, you ensure that your financial decisions contribute to a meaningful and fulfilling life. Four. Track your spending and review your habits, mature your spending pattern to identify areas for improvement, and make adjustments as needed to support your financial goals and maintain a healthy relationship with your money. Five. Educate yourself about personal finance. As I noted before, continuously expand your financial knowledge by reading books, attending workshops, or consulting with financial professionals. This will empower you to make informed decisions and foster self-confidence in your financial capabilities.

 

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And six. Acknowledge and celebrate your financial milestones, both large and small, to reinforce positive behavior and maintain motivation through your financial journey. Seven. Develop a support network. Make sure to connect with like-minded individuals who share your financial values and goals and lean on them for support, encouragement, and accountability. Eight. Practice self-compassion, be kind to yourself when you face financial setbacks or make mistakes and use these experiences as opportunities to learn and grow. I will end this point by stating that by incorporating these tips into your financial life, you will for sure cultivate a healthy relationship with money that supports your emotional wellbeing and fosters a harmonized and fulfilling financial journey. I would like to make one more point before I bring this episode to a close. In your journey toward financial wellness, self-compassion, and self-awareness are critical elements that can significantly impact your ability to navigate both setbacks and successes with resilience and grace.

 

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These qualities play an important role in fostering a healthy relationship with money, and here is why. Self-compassion involves extending kindness and understanding toward yourself, especially during challenging times or when confronted with personal shortcomings. So, by practicing self-compassion in your financial life, you can develop a more balanced perspective on your financial progress, recognizing that setbacks and mistakes are a natural part of the journey. You can cultivate a growth mindset that encourages learning from your experiences rather than dwelling on failures or berating yourself for not meeting expectations. And you can foster emotional resilience as well, which can help you better cope with financial stress and maintain a sense of wellbeing despite external circumstances. Now, self-awareness. It refers to the ability to recognize and understand your thoughts, emotions, and behavior because, in the context of personal finance, self-awareness enables you to identify your financial patterns and triggers, thus helping you make more conscious and intentional decisions that align with your goals and values. It also enables you to recognize the impact of your emotions on your financial behaviors, thus enabling you to manage them effectively and avoid impulsive decisions. And lastly, it enables you to stay grounded and focused on your long-term vision, even amidst the inevitable ups and downs of your financial journey.

 

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And as you cultivate self-compassion and self-awareness, you will be better equipped to navigate the complexities of your financial life with a sense of harmony, resilience, and emotional wellbeing. These qualities not only contribute to a healthy relationship with money but also support a fulfilling and meaningful life overall. Bringing today's episode to a close, I will say that in today's discussion, I highlighted the deep connection between financial wellness and mental health, emphasizing the importance of cultivating a balanced approach to personal finance that supports both your material needs and emotional wellbeing. I explore the impact of financial stress on mental health, the role of financial literacy in fostering emotional wellbeing, and the benefits of mindful money management in nurturing a healthy relationship with money. And as I wrap up this important episode, I will recap the key points discussed to help you on your journey toward financial wellness and mental health. I explored the connection between financial stress and mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, highlighting the importance of recognizing the signs of financial stress and implementing effective strategies to manage it. I highlighted the significance of financial literacy in promoting emotional wellbeing and self-confidence, discussing the key components of financial literacy, including budgeting saving, investing, and debt management. And lastly, I introduced the concept of mindful money management and its role in fostering an integrated financial life.

 

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I forgot I also shared tips for cultivating a healthy relationship with money, such as setting financial goals, practicing gratitude, and embracing a value-based approach to spending and saving. As you reflect on these insights, remember to prioritize both your financial and emotional wellbeing in your pursuit of a harmonized and fulfilling financial journey. And as you continue your financial journey, you must take action and invest in your financial wellness and mental health. Also, by actively engaging in the practices discussed today, you can create a foundation for an integrated and fulfilling financial life. So let me review the steps you can take to get you started. One. Reflect on your financial habits and mindset. Take the time to assess your current financial situation, identify areas for improvement, and develop a deeper understanding of your relationship with money.

 

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Two. Educate yourself in personal finance. Seek out resources and opportunities to expand your financial knowledge, such as books, workshops, and consultations with professionals. Three. Implement mindful money management practices by incorporating the tips shared today into your financial routine, like setting goals, tracking your spending, and aligning your financial decisions with your values. Four. Foster self-compassion and self-awareness. Remember to be kind to yourself as you navigate the challenges and successes of your financial journey and use setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning. By taking these steps, you will not only strengthen your financial foundation but also enhance your overall wellbeing. Remember that investing in your financial wellness and mental health is an ongoing process, so continue to explore, learn, and grow as you journey toward a more harmonizing and fulfilling financial life. This is all I have for you today.

 

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And as you know, I like to end my show with inspiring words. And here they are. Money is just a tool, but it is the way we handle it that defines our emotional wellbeing. This brings us to the end of today's Merging Life and Money episode. I wish to extend my heartfelt gratitude to you, my valued listeners, and my followers, for tuning in to today's episode. Your support and engagement are what made this podcast possible, and I truly appreciate your commitment to personal growth and financial wellness. And as we continue to explore the many facets of financial wellbeing and mental health, I encourage you to share your thoughts, experiences, and insight. Your input not only helps me create more meaningful and relevant content but also fosters a supportive community where we can all learn and grow together.

 

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So feel free to reach out on my social media channels or through my website and join the conversation as we navigate the complexities of personal finance and emotional wellbeing together. Once again, thank you for being a part of this journey and I look forward to connecting with you in future episodes. Keep learning, keep going, and together we will build a world where financial independence is within every woman's reach. Stay tuned for more live shows and podcasts covering a wide range of financial wellness topics. I will see you next week. Thursday at 07:00 p.m Pacific Standard Time 08:00 p.m on ten time 09:00 p.m Central Time 10:00 p.m Eastern Time 11:00 p.m Atlantic Time and noon Friday Brisbane, Australia time thank you for being here today on the Merging Life and Money show. To stay connected, be sure to follow me on social media, subscribe to my podcast, and share the podcast episodes with others. And let's continue our journey to financial wellness and success.

 

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I am your host. Marie-Jo Caesar. I will be back again next week until well continue merging life and money. Bye for now.