Are You Financially Fit?
On this episode of Financially Naked: Stories from The Financial Gym, hosts Sara B. and Gina, two Certified Financial Trainers, talk about financial fitness. They cover what it means, how to assess your financial health, and actionable steps to improve it. By drawing parallels between physical and financial fitness, they explore the importance of reflection, goal-setting, and building a solid foundation to reduce stress and create more freedom in your life. Whether you are seeking financial security or want to feel more in control, this episode offers practical tips and encouragement to help you on your financial fitness journey.
Podcast Notes
Introduction to Financial Fitness
While the end/beginning of the year is a great time to reflect on your finances, you don't have to wait to make changes or set new goals around your financial fitness. At The Gym, clients meet with their Trainers every quarter to reflect on their goals, progress, and overall financial health.
Start with reflection. Ask yourself: How are you feeling about your finances? Are you constantly checking your bank account? Do you feel stressed when you think about money? Your mindset and emotions are an important indicator of financial health.
There are many parallels between physical fitness and financial fitness. For both, there is no wrong time to get started. Start wherever you are, be honest, but do not judge yourself for past decisions.
If working on your financial health feels stressful, you do not have to do it alone. Working with a Financial Trainer at The Gym is a great option. They can help you understand your goals and make a clear plan for how to accomplish them.
Defining Your Financial Goals
Financial fitness looks and feels different for everyone. It's essential to define and understand what it means for you. This will help you set clear goals and action steps.
Common goals for Financial Gym clients include feeling less stressed, financially secure, traveling, buying a home, or starting a family. Financial independence is an goal we think all clients should strive for.
Building a strong financial foundation is important. Once your basic needs are met, you can pursue bigger goals and feel more in control overall. Focus on the foundation first, then you can pursue other financial goals.
Action Steps for Financial Fitness
Start by figuring out your numbers. You need to understand your income, fixed expenses, and average variable expenses. It's key to understand your starting point when setting goals.
Create a budget that aligns with your values and goals. A budget does not have to be restrictive. In fact, a budget will give you more control, freedom, and flexibility. It empowers you to understand where your money is going and have enough for what you truly want.
Improving your financial health takes time. A strong, sustainable plan is the key to long-term financial health. Be patient with yourself. If you take small, actionable steps toward your goals, you will see the progress over time.
You do not have to do this alone. There is power in accountability. You can work with a Trainer at The Financial Gym or find an accountability buddy to help you stay on track.
If you want to work with a Certified Financial Trainer to help navigate your finances, schedule a free warm-up call today! If you have any ideas or questions for the show, send an email to trainerpodcast@fingyms.com.
Resources
Meet The Trainers
Sara Belhouari, Certified Financial Trainer
Gina Funaro, Certified Financial Trainer