Life is busy. Ask someone how they’re doing, and the answer is often “busy,” almost like a badge of honor. Being busy isn’t bad, but it can crowd out the things that keep you grounded. Over the last few years, the wellness space has grown because people are realizing that health isn’t just physical, it’s holistic. We often think of wellness in terms of diet, exercise, or mental health, but financial well‑being is usually left out, even though money stress can be a common source of anxiety for individuals and families. That’s why I want to introduce the idea of financial self‑care: an intentional practice that builds clarity, confidence, and long‑term stability. When you blend financial self‑care with simple, sustainable money habits, you improve not just your finances but your overall well‑being.
So what is financial self‑care? At its core, it’s the set of proactive behaviors that create clarity, control, and confidence around your money. Notice two things: it’s proactive, and doesn’t require a large amount of wealth. That’s because financial self‑care isn’t about dollar amounts, it’s about well‑being. It comes from reducing stress, strengthening your sense of independence, and intentionally designing a plan that supports the life you want to live.
Being proactive is essential. Finances are a lot like car maintenance; preventive care goes a long way. This might look like setting aside time to review your finances, building a spending plan that aligns with your values, or gathering information so you can make informed decisions. Financial self‑care can even provide a quick dopamine boost, similar to the feeling you get after crossing off a task you’ve been putting off or finishing something challenging.
To reinforce the idea of financial self‑care, it helps to build healthy financial habits. Even small habits can create a sense of stability and empowerment. A few simple ones to start with include paying yourself first, tracking your spending, setting aside money for a rainy day, and creating financial boundaries.
James Clear, author of Atomic Habits, says, “You do not rise to the level of your goals. You fall to the level of your systems.” The same is true with money. Your systems, the habits you build, are what keep you moving forward.
One way to strengthen those habits is to make them easier. Take “paying yourself first,” for example. Instead of manually transferring money every month, automate a set amount to go straight into savings. You remove the effort, reduce the chances of forgetting, and still make steady progress on your plan.
The habits you build through financial self‑care don’t just improve your finances, they can also lead to better overall wellness: less stress, better sleep, and more confidence. When you’re intentional and proactive, you’re less reactive and gain more clarity about what you’re doing and why you’re doing it.
I work with all kinds of personalities when it comes to money, but one thing is consistent: people who have a clear, organized plan tend to be more present, more focused at work, and more able to enjoy their relationships and experiences.
It’s easy to see the short‑term benefits of financial self‑care, but the long‑term payoff is just as important. When you develop strong habits and stay on top of your finances, you usually face fewer crises, have more options, and build a healthier relationship with money over time.
Financial self‑care isn’t a luxury; it’s a necessity for meaningful wellness. You don’t need millions of dollars to practice it, either. Think of your money habits as investments in both your financial health and your overall well‑being. Wellness is holistic, and taking care of your money is one of the most powerful ways to care for yourself and the people you love.
-by Jacob Young, AAMS®
Financial Advisor, RJFS
313 East 10th Ave.
Bowling Green, KY 42101
Phone: 270-846-2656
Opinions expressed are those of Jacob Young, Financial Advisor and are not necessarily those of Raymond James. All opinions are as of this date and are subject to change without notice. Investing involves risk and you may incur a profit or loss regardless of strategy selected, including diversification and asset allocation. The information has been obtained from sources considered to be reliable, but we do not guarantee that the foregoing material is accurate or complete. Securities offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc., member FINRA/SIPC, marketed as Ben Smith Life Compass Financial. Investment advisory services offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Ben Smith Life Compass Financial is separately owned and operated and not independently registered as a broker-dealer or investment adviser.
This content was created with the assistance of artificial intelligence (AI). While efforts have been made to ensure the quality and reliability of the content, it is important to note that AI-generated content may not always reflect the most current developments or nuanced human perspectives.
