#142 Work Less, Live More How to Cultivate a Mindset for Financial Freedom

#142: Work Less, Live More: How to Cultivate a Mindset for Financial Freedom –

Most of us want to work less, live more, but did you know that a lot of your success comes down to your mindset?

The path to financial freedom is not solely about numbers and strategies but also about building a mindset supporting success

You might be surprised at how your beliefs and attitudes can influence your (often unconscious) financial behaviors. Ultimately, this impacts your ability to achieve financial independence. 

By cultivating a positive and empowering money mindset, you can pave the way for a more fulfilling and financially secure future.

In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know to build a money mindset that will empower you to achieve your financial goals, FIRE, financial freedom, or otherwise.

Read More

#140 Is Financial Freedom Possible When You Have a Disability

#140: Is Financial Freedom Possible When You Have a Disability? –

If you’ve ever struggled with a disability, whether it’s a physical limitation, chronic illness, or something else, then you’re living life in “hard” mode (as if life wasn’t already hard enough, right?).

Hard mode or not, you still have hopes and dreams and deserve the chance to achieve them.

Your hopes and dreams might even include achieving financial freedom, but it might feel impossible (like many things in life).

The pursuit of financial freedom is an aspiration for many, but when you have a disability, you’re faced with unique challenges. 

The additional costs associated with healthcare, assistive technology, and potential limitations on earning potential can make the journey to financial freedom more complex. 

So, is it possible to achieve financial freedom when you have a disability?

I’ll quickly skip to the ending by answering. Yes, financial freedom is achievable, regardless of disability. That said, it doesn’t come easy (disability or not).

If you’ve landed on this page, you might want to know how or why financial freedom is possible when you have a disability, especially when just living can seem hard enough.

If this describes you, then you’re in luck. In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know so that you can understand how and why it’s possible to achieve financial freedom, even with a disability.

Read More

#139 Is Transferring Colleges Worth It

#139: Is Transferring Colleges Worth It? –

You’re about to make a major choice, but you ask yourself for the hundredth time, “Is transferring colleges worth it?”

You’ve debated your options, weighing the pros and cons. You’ve consulted with a few trusted friends and advisors, yet you’re still unconvinced.

You know you started your college career where you’re at for a reason, but it no longer feels like the right place.

Let’s face it, we’ve all made a choice we regretted at some point or another. But making an expensive choice, like going to the wrong college feels more painful.

So what do you do? Do you tough it out for a few more semesters? Or do you pack up your things and hope to roam on greener pastures, wherever you go?

I once found myself faced with a similar choice after I started my freshman year of undergrad. Eventually, I did transfer, but I’ll get into that later.

The choice wasn’t easy for me, and I doubt it’s easy for you. Your future is at stake, after all, so it’s a scary choice to make. What if you choose wrong?

In this article, I’ll tell you everything you need to know so that you can confidently answer the question, “Is transferring colleges worth it for me?”

Read More

136 7 Ways the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Empowers Employees

#136: 7 Ways the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) Empowers Employees –

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) has been a cornerstone of civil rights for individuals with disabilities since its passage in 1990. 

This groundbreaking legislation significantly transformed the workplace, creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for millions of Americans. It provided the rights and a pathway for disabled Americans to participate in the workplace in ways they weren’t previously able to.

It’s been decades since the Americans with Disabilities Act was passed, yet there’s still confusion about what it entails. Both employees and employers struggle to understand the rules and requirements at times. The laws behind it are complex, but it is possible to navigate them.

If you have a legal disability, whether it’s a chronic illness, vision impairment, mobility issue, or otherwise, you might be surprised about the extensive ways the ADA can support you in the workplace.

In this article, we’ll explore seven key ways the ADA empowers disabled employees. Arm yourself with this information and you’ll be well on your way to better understanding your rights, and potentially negotiating with employers.

Read More

#135 The Cover Letter Conundrum Do Employers Really Read Them

#135: The Cover Letter Conundrum: Do Employers Really Read Them? –

The long-dreaded cover letter: a relic of the past or a powerful tool in your job search arsenal? 

In an age dominated by applicant tracking systems (ATS) and online applications, many job seekers question the value of this traditional document.

It’s a fair question, especially when simply filling out an application can take so much time. I know I’m not alone in wondering why employers require you to fill out online fields with your job experience (isn’t that what a resume is for?).

Not only that, but now employers are requiring projects, tests, and endless rounds of interviews. It’s exhausting.

Do employers read cover letters? Can they set you apart from other applicants? Do they actually make a difference in the job applicant pool?

More importantly: do cover letters still matter? And are they worth your time and energy when you could otherwise focus on other aspects of the job application process?

In this article, I’ll share some reasons why it may or may not make sense for you to craft a cover letter (hint: it depends). I’ll also give you a few tips for writing a compelling cover letter if you find you need one.

Read More

#132 How to Find Your Why So You Can FIRE Your Career

#132: How to Find Your “Why” So You Can FIRE Your Career –

Learning how to find your “why” is arguably the most important part of your FIRE journey.

FIRE or Financial Independence, Retire Early is more than just about retiring early, it’s about building a life of freedom; a life where you choose how you spend your time.

Your “why” provides you with purpose, passion, and fuel to overcome life’s inevitable challenges. It’s a guiding post and a reminder of what you’re working toward.

The path to FIRE can be challenging, so it helps to know how to find your why, even if (or perhaps especially if) it changes over time.

Your goals and priorities will probably change over time, and that’s ok! It’s important to ensure your goals are in alignment with your “why” so that you can make any necessary adjustments.

If you’re ready to learn how to find your why, uncover your purpose, and fuel your journey to FIRE, then keep reading on and you’ll have the tools and resources to do just that by the time you’re done reading.

Read More

#130 Beyond the Beach Crafting a Rich Financial Freedom Lifestyle

#130: Beyond the Beach: Crafting a Rich Financial Freedom Lifestyle –

A financial freedom lifestyle conjures images of pristine beaches, endless leisure time, and the flexibility to travel the world. 

These are all wonderful perks, but a true financial freedom lifestyle goes far deeper. It’s about designing a fulfilling and meaningful life, one where you have the power to choose how you spend your time.

You’re not limited to the constraints of a paycheck but have the freedom to choose your job (if you’re so inclined), spend more time with family, travel, and pursue new interests, among other pursuits.

In this article, we’ll discuss how you can build a financial freedom lifestyle that provides meaning and fulfillment as you work toward your financial goals, FIRE or otherwise.

Read More

#128 How to Increase Your Net Worth 5 Tips for Success (psst... buying a house isn't one of them!)

#128: How to Increase Your Net Worth: 5 Tips for Success (psst… buying a house isn’t one of them!) –

If financial independence (or freedom) matters to you then you should consider how to increase your net worth.

Financial independence can give you the freedom to live life on your terms, free from the constraints of a paycheck (unless you love your job).

But how do you achieve financial freedom?

This is where the concept of net worth comes in.

Financial independence conjures up images of early retirement, pursuing passions, and freedom from the daily grind. But how do you achieve this elusive state? The answer lies in your net worth, and you’ll soon find out why.

In this article, you’ll learn how your net worth is tied to your ability to achieve financial independence. You’ll also learn some simple ways that will explain how to increase your net worth.

Read More

#126 Personal Finance Made Easy 5 Simple Steps to Take Control of Your Finances

#126: Personal Finance Made Easy: 5 Simple Steps to Take Control of Your Finances –

It’s nearly Independence Day, so what better time to discuss personal finance, or in other words, the key to financial independence?

Your personal finances probably aren’t something you think about frequently. While that’s understandable, they are important.

If you become the master of your finances, you can achieve financial freedom and live the life of your dreams.

But if you struggle with debt and fail to complete even simple financial goals, you might find yourself in an endless rat race.

Imagine a life where you’re not chained to a desk by financial obligations. 

Imagine having the freedom to pursue your passions, travel the world, or simply spend more quality time with loved ones. 

Personal finance isn’t about deprivation; it’s about empowerment. By taking control of your finances, you unlock the door to living life on your terms.

In this article, you’ll get 5 actionable steps you can take today to get your finances on the right track.

Read More

#125 How to Negotiate Salary Increases in New Job Offers

#125: How to Negotiate Salary Increases in New Job Offers –

How to Negotiate Salary Increases and Land the Perfect Package

Congrats, you’ve gotten a job offer! What’s next?

Regardless of whether you choose to accept the job offer or not, you deserve to celebrate! However, before you sign the dotted line, make sure you remember an important step: negotiation

Consider this: negotiation is an essential step in securing the best possible job offer. So don’t be afraid to advocate for yourself! Most employers expect you to negotiate, so don’t forget that it’s just part of the process. 

Admittedly, it can be intimidating to negotiate. After all, sometimes the job offer itself feels like a gift, especially if you’ve been in the job market for a while. However, don’t forget that it’s in your best interest to negotiate the terms of your employment.

The only party that wins when you don’t negotiate is your (potential) future employer, so don’t be afraid to speak up for what you feel is right and fair when it comes to your employment.

Speaking of which, if you’re wondering how to negotiate salary terms, you’ve come to the right place!

If you’re ready to learn how to negotiate salary terms for your latest job offer, this article will help you do just that. By the time you’re done reading, you’ll have the knowledge and confidence to navigate the negotiation process and unlock a compensation package that reflects your true value.

Read More