February 2025

Listen, I know managing money can feel like a full-time job—especially when you're balancing bills, family, and trying to build a future. As an accountant, I’ve seen it all. I’ve made my own money mistakes, learned from them, and helped plenty of people get their finances in order. So, let’s talk real talk about how to make smart money moves that will set us up for success.

1. Know Where Your Money is Going (AKA, Make a Budget)

I get it—budgeting sounds like a chore, but trust me, it’s the key to financial peace. You don’t need fancy apps or spreadsheets (unless you like that kind of thing). Just start tracking what’s coming in and what’s going out. Are you spending more on takeout than you thought? Is that Amazon habit adding up? Knowing your numbers gives you power.

Smart Move: Use the 50/30/20 rule—50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings and debt.

2. Build That “Life Happens” Fund

If there’s one thing life has taught me, it’s to expect the unexpected. Whether it’s a car breakdown, a surprise medical bill, or a family emergency, an emergency fund keeps you from stressing or going into debt. Aim for at least three to six months of expenses, but don’t get overwhelmed—start small. Even saving $20 a week adds up over time.

Smart Move: Open a high-yield savings account and set up automatic transfers.

3. Get Serious About Debt (Without Feeling Overwhelmed)

Listen, debt can weigh you down, but there’s a way out. If credit cards, student loans, or personal loans are holding you back, make a plan. Two ways to tackle it:

• Avalanche Method – Pay off high-interest debt first to save money.
• Snowball Method – Pay off the smallest balances first for quick wins.

Pick a strategy that works for you and stop adding new debt if possible.

Smart Move: If you have a credit card balance, call and ask for a lower interest rate—you’d be surprised how often they say yes!

4. Start Investing (Even If It Sounds Scary)

I know a lot of us weren’t raised talking about investing, but hear me out—investing is how you build wealth. You don’t need to be rich to start. If you have a 401(k), 403(b), or IRA, put money in it! If your job offers a match, take full advantage—it’s free money.

And if you’re ready to go further, look into index funds and ETFs—they’re low-risk ways to grow your money over time.

Smart Move: Set up automatic investments—future you will thank you.

5. Keep More of Your Money (AKA, Get Smart About Taxes)

The IRS takes enough—don’t let them take more than they should. Make sure you’re getting every deduction and credit available, especially if you:

• Have kids (Child Tax Credit)
• Own a home (Mortgage Interest Deduction)
• Contribute to retirement accounts (Tax breaks!)
• Have a side hustle (Tons of write-offs!)

Smart Move: If you’re self-employed or have a side gig, keep track of your expenses—you can write off way more than you think.

6. Protect What You’ve Built

We work hard for what we have, so let’s protect it. That means:

• Health insurance (Because one ER visit can wipe out savings)
• Life insurance (So your family is covered, no matter what)
• A will and estate plan (Don’t let the courts decide what happens to your assets)

We don’t like to talk about these things, but taking care of them now means your loved ones won’t be left in a mess later.

Smart Move: If you have kids, name a guardian in your will—it’s one of the most important things you can do.

Final Thoughts: You Got This!

Managing money doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Start where you are, take small steps, and be consistent. We are building wealth for ourselves, our families, and the next generation.

If you found this helpful, drop a comment or share it with someone who needs it. Let’s build this financial freedom together! 💪🏾💰