
I think being the daughter of a baby boomer definitely had its benefits. That generation alone saw what it was to financially struggle as they witnessed distress in their parents' financial tribulations from the damage left from World War II and potentially the Great Depression.
That being said, my mother knew how to budget and she taught me well: separate a portion of each allowance for what I wanted (it was probably a Polly Pocket or a new leotard for gymnastics) and as I got older it became about setting aside bill money from recreational spending. With that as college graduation came around, I don't think anyone foresaw how bad the economy would be. We've all seen the 'Occupy Wallstreet' protests around the world happening. They say, among other reasons, that a big reason for this occupation is high school loan debts and no job to minimize this debt. Fact of the matter is that we all seem to be struggling and had we had a financial plan in the first place, maybe (I use that loosely) we wouldn't be in this financial crisis we are in now.
My hometown is a decent size city so there is a higher chance for one to find a job here than say in a small town that'll probably have limiting options. At this time, once you land a job, be smart about it. That's easier said than done, I know, but financial planning is important no matter the age, especially if as a society we want to avoid continuing this ever-growing debt. Consider seeking a financial adviser whether for general guidance or if you're at the point of retirement, creating a retirement plan. The great part of a financial adviser is they not only help you personally define success, they'll also help keep you on track. Being fresh out of college, I feel this financial pain all too well. I knew I was going to have to start from the bottom, but I'm hoping I'm not going to be digging myself out of debt until I'm 40 years old. I can only hope. My mom said that when she was working she'd save 30-40% of her paychecks. That seems like a huge sacrifice in my eyes, but if that's what it takes to not feel the burden of money, I'll do it.
Talking with my working family members, I'm well aware of the diminishing of their 401k's. What happened to them? What happened to make GM basically governmentally owned? Some Americans bit off more they could chew when they reached a financial peak. You can live humbly and still have money. If you're not one who can't budget well, which honestly, my money seems to disappear as my social events increase, there are resources, ways to save, and people to help you save. I'd take advantage of them.
The author of of this article recommends visiting
http://www.oakpointfinancialgroup.com/new/OakPointFinancialGroup1/content.asp?contentID=2017594730 to learn more about
Financial advising and planning.
By Lyndsay Flagel
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lyndsay_Flagel