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| D'Angelo Johnson presents helpful financial knowledge at the Equip Class, Money 101. |
The Saturday morning seminar was geared toward families and individuals interested in learning how to have more control over their finances. Luke De Vries, D’Angelo Johnson, and Greg Altmaier, all of Walnut Creek Downtown, lead the audience through ways to engage wisely with money. For those unable to attend the seminar, below are their top five financial tips.
1. Consider Your Goals and Make a Personal Financial Mission Statement
A personal mission statement toward your finances can guide you throughout your life, no matter your financial circumstances. Describe your purpose as it relates to God, family, friends, and service to others. Summarize your purpose in a few sentences and choose a Bible verse that reflects that purpose. “Christ talks a lot about money and investments,” said Luke. “My mission is to be more like Jesus and bless others with the abundance He’s given me.”2. List Tangible Short-and Long-Term Goals
- Spiritual Goals
- Personal Goals
- Ministry Goals
- Financial Goals
Adding your “bucket list” can also help you approach your finances in a more practical, manageable formula. To achieve your goals, make sure to account for financial, time, and energy costs. “Getting these goals in mind will help put your finances in better perspective,” said Luke.
3. Be Disciplined and Responsible
Develop a detailed financial strategy beginning with a budget. Many organizations offer financial help like this free personal finance budget guide. Find someone that you trust to help you stick to your goals.“Overcoming financial obstacles is attainable, but a lot of times we have no one to hold us accountable to the goals we made,” said D’Angelo. “People don’t plan to fail, they merely fail to plan.” Unexpected hardships like illness or death can be especially catastrophic if you’re unprepared.
4. Consider Financial Philosophies and Develop Your Own Convictions
Ask people what they do financially and why. Gather ideas to help make an informed decision about what’s best for you. Take a greater level of ownership over your finances and remember that even small steps will eventually lead to great results. Don’t wait to plan ahead–be proactive with your finances. “You won’t get fit by watching a workout video. The same goes for finances.” said Greg.5. Aim to Get Out of Debt
Utilize financial tools provided by your banks and lenders or visit the U.S. Department of Education for help on consolidating loans or finding programs that could save your family money or forgive debt.
By Brigitte Haugen
Walnut Creek Windsor Heights