This Six-Word Phrase Summarizes the Best Mindset for Financial Planning, According to a Money Expert
When it comes to financial planning, many of us feel like our bills and day-to-day needs dictate absolutely all of our spending and, therefore, any extra "planning" might seem pointless. If most of our money is going toward necessary expenses in our budget, it can feel a little uninspiring (to say the least) each time our paychecks hit the bank. This leads some of us to adopt the phrase: "Treat yourself!"—especially in moments of weakness as we cave to impulsive spending.
However, that Parks and Recreation-famous tagline can actually be detrimental to personal finance—even if it feels like this attitude is harmless (and well-deserved at the time!). Instead, there is a different phrase that summarizes the best mindset to have about financial planning, according to a money expert.
TikTok creator and finance expert Pattie Ehsaei has been a leader in financial services for over 22 years, and she feels passionate about shifting the frame of mind that comes with making money decisions.
"Most people, especially women, are never taught financial literacy, which can lead to financial irresponsibility in adulthood," Ehsaei tells Parade. "This often results in financial dependence, stress and anxiety, as finances are one of the top stressors in society."
But there is one phrase, in particular, she recommends adopting for anxiety-free personal finance decisions.
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The Best Phrase for Financial Planning, According to a Money Expert
Ehsaei swears by one six-word phrase: "Money isn't a voucher to spend."
If you're left scratching your head, wondering why she emphasizes this mindset, just know that this specific perspective can help you gain a significant amount of money in the long run—which can be a much nicer "treat" for yourself than the instant gratification you receive from impulse buys on TikTok Shop.
Instead of viewing money as a voucher to spend, Ehsaei stresses the importance of investing.
"Start investing immediately," she recommends. "Every year you delay investing can cost you hundreds of thousands of dollars by retirement."
She provides an example to help illustrate her point.
"If you invest $200 a month for 30 years, you could have approximately $400,000 by the end of that period," Ehsaei explains. "However, if you start investing 10 years earlier, after 40 years, you could have over $1,000,000. By delaying your investment by 10 years, you could be sacrificing $600,000."
If these numbers are difficult to wrap your mind around, you're not alone. Many of us struggle with visualizing the impact that our dollars today have on our long-term future. But that's why Ehsaei is passionate about encouraging financial literacy.
"Financial literacy is a key tool for achieving financial independence, security and empowerment," she explains. "It enables individuals to navigate modern financial systems and make informed decisions that positively impact their lives and communities, allowing them be happier and more fulfilled."
That sounds like a win/win situation!
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Source:
Pattie Ehsaei, TikTok creator, finance expert and a leader in financial services for over 22 years
