From The Blog

Ways to Make the Most of This Summer and Your Finances

Take advantage of the opportunity to push the ‘reset’ button.

Now can be an excellent time to ‘press the reset button’ by evaluating your current circumstances and determining your goals for moving forward. While there may be some things about your life that you miss from before the COVID-19 pandemic, it’s also important to consider any aspects that you prefer now. While reflecting on this, you should also bear in mind your finances. Have there been any changes to your income or spending habits? Going forward, how would you like that part of your life to look?

Establish routines, but also leave room for fun.

Routines amid uncertainty are essential. Along with helping us stay healthy and happy, they can give us a sense of normality and purpose. Good financial habits can set us up for good financial health.

Some examples of good financial routines are:

  • Create a master shopping list and carefully consider impromptu purchases.
  • Track your spending
  • Pay more than the minimum on your credit cards
  • Make savings for the unexpected a priority
  • Save for specific goals
  • Give to others
  • Budget some time for fun

While routines are essential, so is making time for some rest, fun, and the unexpected.

Use this time to try something new.

Since some of the things that you had previously planned for this summer may no longer be an option, now can be great time to try something new while saving some money. There are plenty of online classes, tutorials, and videos that can allow you and your family to explore a new hobby inexpensively! Here are some ideas:

  • Art 
  • Scrapbooking
  • Dance
  • Singing
  • Fitness and Yoga
  • Cooking 

Be compassionate to others, including yourself.

While everyone’s situation is different, we can all relate to the disturbances and uncertainties that COVID-19 has brought, including those that impact summer plans. As you navigate through this season, try not to criticize yourself or others. If you make a mistake, evaluate what may have worked and what went wrong. Mistakes can be beneficial. They allow us to learn and grow.

Allied Healthcare Federal Credit Union has several financial solutions that can help you if you need it. Our partner, GreenPath Financial Wellness, also provides free financial coaching and other resources to AHFCU members.

 

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