A couple of things happened over the last couple weeks that reminded me of why I started blogging about money, and why I CARE so much about being responsible with money.
I got asked about my blog, if I had any formal training in finances. My answer was "I wish." And I really, really do wish. Our conversation went on to a little about where we each were and how easy it is to feel like you've lost control of the reigns, and as a joke I got told maybe I could be brought in for a financing consult. I was floored, because just the other week, I made a confession to my husband, that this would be my dream job.
I would love to work with a family, and help them organize their financial paperwork and change some habits. Due to the no formal training thing, I know I'm not equipped to make a budget, or really even tell people what they should do with their money, but I can work a filing folder and a label maker with passion. Something as small as having a place in your house where you consistently sit, review your bank statements, pay bills, and file them can make a huge impact on your relationship with your money. That leads to me the other event that cemented in my mind why I blog.
We had an impromptu family gathering, and as the guys hid away downstairs and watched the hockey game (the Habs won) my sisters and I had a real, honest discussion about money. We talked about where we've faltered a little, and about how hard it is as a newly married couple to make good decisions about finances. We all had similair stories, we all had to learn. After discussing some failings, the conversation turned, and my sisters and I got to talk about how it gets better. We talked about things that work for our families, and that there really is hope, even if the thought of money has made you sick and kept you up at night. I walked away from that conversation so encouraged. I knew I wasn't alone.
That initation of the conversation, that is what I want to bring to my blogging. I want to make it ok to say, "Yeah, I've made some mistakes. I didn't do so hot at this or this." I want people to know that it can always be turned around, and that positive changes can be made. As scary as money can be, noone should feel alone, because most of us have been there before.
2 comments:
Maybe you could consider starting a grass roots 'club' out of your local MFRC (Military Family Resource Centre); use the power of adult learning strategy to to set a goal and help the members achieve it. Don't get me wrong, some formal training of some kind isn't a bad idea, it has tremendous value but too often we forget the overwhelming power of common sense married to a friendship & support structure. After I had my first baby and had to get back in shape for my BFT (Battle Fitness Test) it wasn't the Perry (fitness) staff that did the most good it was my fellow soldiers who helped me set progressive goals, checked in on me daily, ran and worked out with me, encouraged me when I had tough days. Seems to me what you have to offer is Finance Fitness For Families and sounds like the collective knowledge of the group with your inspiring leadership and organizational strategies would be a fabulous match. I'm on the Board of Directors for my local MFRC and I'd support you in a heartbeat if you came to us with a well laid out plan for doing this.
Reba where is your local MFRC? I love the idea of military families helping each other towards financial goals. And I LOVE the Finanical Fitness for Families name.
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