from “Trying” to “Training”

  from “Trying” to “Training”

Ever known a smoker “trying to quit” who just…never does? The language we use matters. When we’re “trying,” failure feels definitive, like proof we’re not good enough. But if we see ourselves as in training, every misstep is just part of the practice.

Think of yourself as an athlete in constant preparation. There’s no finish line, just consistent growth. (Bonus: The Bible has a ton of references about being in training. Look it up—it’s inspiring!)

Budgeting

 

Budgeting: The 50/30/20 Rule Revisited

Budgeting can feel overwhelming, especially when life throws expenses at you left and right. But what if we told you there’s a straightforward, no-nonsense framework that can make managing your finances feel less like a chore and more like a game plan? Enter: the 50/30/20 rule.

You may have heard of it, but this popular budgeting method, championed by Senator Elizabeth Warren in her book All Your Worth: The Ultimate Lifetime Money Plan, breaks your income into three easy-to-follow categories. Here’s how it works:

50%: Needs

Half of your after-tax income should go toward necessities—things you truly can’t live without. Think:

• Rent or mortgage payments
• Utilities (electricity, water, gas)
• Groceries
• Transportation (gas, car payments, public transit)
• Insurance premiums (health, car, etc.)

If your needs exceed 50% of your income, it’s worth exploring ways to reduce these costs. Could you downsize your living space, switch to a more affordable phone plan, or shop smarter for groceries? Small adjustments can free up room in your budget for the other categories.

30%: Wants

This is the fun part. Allocate 30% of your income to things that enhance your life but aren’t essential. Think:

• Dining out
• Streaming subscriptions
• Travel and vacations
• Hobbies or leisure activities
• Non-essential shopping (clothes, gadgets, etc.)

This category is all about enjoying life responsibly. Treat yourself, but don’t go overboard—keeping this in check ensures your financial health stays intact while you have fun.

20%: Savings and Debt Repayment

The final 20% goes toward securing your financial future. This includes:

• Emergency fund contributions
• Retirement savings (401(k), IRA, etc.)
• Investments
• Paying down credit card debt or student loans

This category is non-negotiable—it’s what sets you up for long-term stability. Start with an emergency fund (aim for 3–6 months of expenses) and focus on high-interest debt next. Once you’ve covered those, you can build wealth through investments or additional savings.

How to Apply the 50/30/20 Rule

1. Calculate Your After-Tax Income: This is your take-home pay after taxes and deductions.
2. Break It Down: Multiply your income by 0.50, 0.30, and 0.20 to determine how much to allocate to each category.
3. Track Your Spending: Use budgeting tools like Mint, YNAB (You Need a Budget), or even a simple Google Sheet to monitor your expenses and stay on track.
4. Adjust as Needed: Life isn’t static, and neither is your budget. Revisit these percentages if your income or priorities change.

Why the 50/30/20 Rule Works

This method simplifies budgeting without being overly restrictive. It provides enough structure to keep you financially grounded while giving you the flexibility to enjoy life. Plus, it’s adaptable—you can tweak the percentages to fit your unique situation.

For instance, if you’re aggressively paying off debt, you might shift to a 50/20/30 rule (reducing your “wants” allocation). The point is to create a system that works for you.

Budgeting doesn’t have to be complicated. The 50/30/20 rule is a straightforward framework that balances your needs, wants, and future goals. Whether you’re just starting your financial journey or looking for a reset, this method offers clarity and control.

Take the first step today: grab a calculator, map out your budget, and watch how a little structure can make a big difference. Your financial peace of mind is worth it.

The Difference Between Yes and No

 

The Difference Between Yes and No

The words “yes” and “no” get used in comparison to each other so often that it feels like they carry equal weight in conversation. In reality, they are not just opposite in meaning, but of entirely different magnitudes in commitment.

When you say no, you are only saying no to one option. When you say yes, you are saying no to every other option.

I like how the economist Tim Harford put it, “Every time we say yes to a request, we are also saying no to anything else we might accomplish with the time.” Once you have committed to something, you have already decided how that future block of time will be spent.

In other words, saying no saves you time in the future. Saying yes costs you time in the future. No is a form of time credit. You retain the ability to spend your future time however you want. Yes is a form of time debt. You have to pay back your commitment at some point.

No is a decision. Yes is a responsibility.

Vision Boards

 

How to create a vision board using Canva

Vision boards aren't just Pinterest-worthy collages—they're powerful strategic planning tools for those who want to intentionally design their lives.

Think of it as your personal career and life GPS. While your colleagues are simply reacting to opportunities, you're proactively designing your path. This isn't about wishful thinking—it's about strategic visualization that bridges the gap between where you are and where you want to be.

For the woman who's focused on her career, managing complex relationships, and seeking holistic success, a vision board is your secret weapon. It's a daily reminder of your capabilities, a motivational touchstone that keeps you focused when challenges arise, and a visual commitment to your most ambitious self.

Here’s how to use Canva.com to create your 2025 vision board:

1) Goal Selection Choose 10-12 goals that span critical life domains. The key is balance and authenticity:

• Career Advancement: Promotions, new roles, skill acquisitions
• Financial Targets: Savings goals, investment strategies
• Personal Development: Certifications, leadership training
• Wellness Objectives: Fitness milestones, mental health practices
• Relationship Goals: Professional networks, personal connections

Vision boards are living documents. It's perfectly okay if goals take 1-3 years to materialize. Roll over unachieved objectives to next year's board—progress isn't linear.

2) Gather Visual Inspiration

• Select high-quality, professional images in Canva
• Choose a clean, sophisticated color palette
• Pick visuals that spark genuine emotional resonance
• Ensure images reflect your authentic professional and personal aspirations

3) Canva Creation Process

1. Open Canva.com
2. Select "Create a Design" → Custom Size
3. Use a 16:9 or A4 template
4. Drag and drop images
5. Add text overlays with specific goals
6. Create sections for each life domain

 




 

Design Tips:

• Use a grid layout for organization
• Ensure visual hierarchy
• Keep it clean and intentional
• Make it something you'll want to look at daily

Remember: This is your personal roadmap. Design it to inspire and motivate you. The vision board that works, is the one that works for you!