There are lots of tips when it comes to getting ahead, financial speaking. Most of them are really simple so if you are struggling to get on top of your finances and it is a burden you could live without, take a look at our suggestions, below, and make a commitment to just start with one. If that works, maybe you will be encouraged to tackle a few more.
Seek advice, listen and follow it
The importance of a good Financial Adviser
Sometimes we try and take on everything ourselves. Whilst it is great to have a can-do attitude, we cannot expect ourselves to be experts in everything, so luckily there are people who are experts in money who can help you on your financial journey. Financial Advisers understand money, they know how it works and they have the skills, tools and technology to make the complicated world of financial planning work for their clients – no matter what their age, income or financial goals.
If you want to get your finances into an achievable financial plan that helps you reach your financial goals sooner, talk to an expert, listen to their ideas, and commit to doing something about it. And don’t be afraid to ask questions throughout the process! If there is something you don’t understand, your Financial Adviser can keep working with you until you understand it, and feel comfortable.
Spend smart, save smarter
The importance of having a budget
If your finances take a sudden hit, are you prepared for that? Things such as losing your job, being asked to take a pay cut, taking time off work to be a stay-at-home parent or suffering an illness or injury can take you out of the workforce and reduce your income – which can be a shock if you are not good at budgeting.
A Financial Adviser can work on a realistic financial budget with you and discuss personal insurance options that may provide financial protection if you become ill or injured.
And remember, a budget is not just about telling you what you can and can’t spend money on, it’s a way of tracking your spending, understanding what you can cut back on, where you can take advantage of cheaper alternatives, how you can compare prices and learning what you can live without in order to reach a more desirable, long-term financial goal.
Financial planning is about exploring options
Diversifying your wealth creation strategies
There are many ways you can increase your wealth and it’s worth exploring all of them and considering whether or not they suit your individual situation, needs, values and goals. A Financial Adviser can help you explore different options such as shares, managed funds, bonds, superannuation and property, whilst keeping in mind your risk tolerance level and need for a certain level of income to pay your bills and put food on the table.
Take the lead and stay in control
Don’t leave the important financial decisions to someone else, get involved!
If you share finances with a partner it is a good idea to make sure you are both informed and that you discuss any major financial decisions before making them. If the relationship breaks down, or one partner becomes ill or injured, then it is good to know the other partner in the relationship has a clear understanding of your financial position, goals and expenses.
If you are invested in financial products, make sure you understand those products, and if they meet your needs, goals and values. Some people only want to invest in ethical or sustainable products, so if this is important to you, make sure you discuss it with your Financial Adviser.
If you would like to discuss this article, or you have any questions or concerns about your financial plan, please get in touch with us. We would love to hear from you.