Don't let disordered finances bring you down.
When I think about what brings people the greatest unhappiness, money and money matters are always at the top of the list. While we don’t always have control over our financial situation, we can control whether our spending habits are healthy or in need of life support.
Take this quiz and assess how well you are handling your part of the money equation.
1. I plan my spending budget in advance.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
2. I make sure not to spend everything I earn.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
3. I avoid impulse purchases for myself.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
4. I take the time to learn how to manage my finances so that I can continually improve.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
5. Even if it is uncomfortable or I’m afraid of what I’ll see, I look at my bills promptly so that I can make sure they are taken care of on time.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
6. If I am having a bad day and need a lift, if I choose to spend money, I monitor my expenses and manage my emotions.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
7. If I am uncertain about how to handle a financial situation, I reach out for guidance from someone who has more expertise or experience.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
8. I treat myself by buying myself things I can afford, so that I do not always feel deprived.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
9. I am prepared if faced with a big expense, like a repair to my home or car.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
10. When it comes to my finances, I am aware of my strengths and weaknesses.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
11. I balance my lifestyle with my earnings so that I can be financially stress-free.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
12. I know exactly how much money comes in and how much goes out.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
13. I feel good about my financial situation.
A. ALWAYS
B. SOMETIMES
C. NEVER
If most of your answers were:
A: You have a strong hold over your finances and the behaviors and emotions connected with them. You tend to be responsible with your money and are advanced in this area. Keep a consistent eye on your financial situation, though, as sometimes successful people can grow too comfortable and stop being careful.
B: You are successful in some areas when it comes to money and managing your finances. Continue putting effort into your strongest areas and pay close attention your weaker ones. Consider reaching out to your support system or an expert who can help guide you. If your weaker areas fall into the emotional realm, consider working on the emotions affecting your habits. If you struggle with your income, financial stability, etc., develop a plan that will put you on sturdier footing.
C: You need to work on your finances and financial well-being. If you don’t feel educated and informed enough, reach out to financial experts and read books and online articles to help you grow. If emotional baggage is getting in your way, work through those issues so that you can handle your finances in a less emotional way.
Stacy Kaiser is a successful Southern California-based licensed psychotherapist, author, relationship expert and media personality. She is an editor at large for Live Happy, and the author of How to Be a Grown Up: The Ten Secret Skills Everyone Needs to Know.
