Finding Financial Resilience in Uncertain Times
As a woman of color and daughter of immigrants, I’m still reeling from the election results. The surge in racism and xenophobia has left me heartbroken and anxious about the future. As a future lawyer, I’m deeply concerned about the potential barriers to LGBT rights, immigration, and women’s healthcare. Despite my own privilege, I’m terrified for the safety of my loved ones.
Taking Control of My Finances
In this climate of uncertainty, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and powerless. But I’ve come to realize that taking care of my financial health is one way I can exert control over my life. By prioritizing my finances, I can create a sense of security and stability that will allow me to support the people and causes I care about.
Five Key Decisions
Here are the five key decisions I’m making about my money and financial health in the post-election era:
1. Staying Calm and Informed
It’s natural to feel panicked when faced with uncertainty, but I’m reminding myself that my investment portfolio is a long-term strategy. I’m staying informed about market trends, but I’m not making impulsive decisions based on short-term fluctuations.
2. Building an Emergency Fund
My goal is to save at least $15,000 in the next six months. Having a solid emergency fund will give me peace of mind and provide a safety net in case of unexpected expenses or financial shocks.
3. Taking Control of My Reproductive Health
With the Affordable Care Act under threat, I’m taking proactive steps to ensure I have access to affordable contraception. I’m planning to get an IUD, which will provide long-term protection and peace of mind.
4. Making Giving a Priority
I’ve always made ad-hoc donations to causes I care about, but now I’m making giving a regular part of my budget. I’m rotating monthly donations between different organizations and subscribing to news sources that support free press and social justice.
5. Volunteering My Time
Volunteering has always been a key part of my life, and now more than ever, I’m committed to using my time and skills to make a positive impact. Whether it’s working with pro-bono projects, phone-banking for political campaigns, or supporting local organizations, I’m finding ways to channel my energy into creating change.
Finding Hope in Action
It’s easy to feel paralyzed by fear and anxiety, but by taking control of my finances, volunteering my time, and supporting causes I care about, I’m finding a sense of purpose and hope. I’m not giving in to despair; instead, I’m using my privilege to make a difference, one small step at a time.
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