She Strengthens

Breaking Free from Financial Ignorance

Growing up, I had a tumultuous relationship with math. Despite doing well in Algebra I and Geometry, I hit a roadblock in Algebra II. My teacher, Dorothy Ball, seemed to take pleasure in my confusion, making me feel feeble-minded and frivolous. But I refused to give up. With the help of another math teacher, I finally grasped the concepts and developed a passion for math.

The Bigger Problem

However, I realized that no one had ever explained the practical applications of math in my life. My teachers and parents didn’t teach me how to manage my finances, budget, or invest. I was left to navigate the world of personal finance on my own, without a clue.

Fear and Ignorance

As I entered adulthood, my fear of money grew. I earned and saved without a plan, working blindly without understanding the value of money. I was afraid to talk about it, hoping that if I ignored it, it would stay dormant and unthreatening.

A Wake-Up Call

But when I landed my first “real” job, reality hit me hard. My salary was $23,000 a year, and I had no idea what that meant for my financial future. I began to question everything, from my student loan debt to my ability to live comfortably.

Taking Control

It was then that I decided to take control of my finances. I started reading financial blogs, researching the cost of living, and learning about personal finance. I created a budget, tallying up my expenses and understanding the limitations of my paycheck. It was liberating to finally grasp the meaning of my money.

Empowerment through Education

As I continued to educate myself, I broke free from my cycle of financial ignorance. I learned to love financial math, calculating compounding interest and optimizing my budget. Today, I’m proud to be a homeowner, having paid off my student loans and hacked my grocery budget. I’ve even become a trusted source of financial advice for others.

From Ignorance to Empowerment

My journey is proof that financial literacy is key to taking control of your life. By understanding the value of money and its possibilities, you can break free from fear and ignorance. So, take the first step today, and start building a brighter financial future for yourself.