Milestones and Other Money Matters: Planning for the Future

Planning for the future is not just a luxury. It is a necessity, and it is never too early to start.

Financial pros suggest taking stock of the previous year and any major milestones such as marriage, divorce, having a new child, or losing a loved one. From there, financial planning starts.

First Full-Time Job

Gen Zers, like everyone else, could surely benefit from financial advice. It is wise to start early and put away as much as possible. Of course, it may be challenging to do so with entry-level salaries. Therefore, one may need to look for creative ways to save money, such as brewing your coffee instead of buying one on your way to work. Find someone you trust and seek advice on how to invest your money even in small amounts. The earlier you start saving and investing, the more time you have to watch your money grow.

The ABCs of ESG

In recent years, ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance), investing has become increasingly popular for all age groups and matters. Investing in companies that align with our values is becoming a norm. If we are socially conscious, we can make investment decisions that impact the world positively. Nowadays, many advisors recommend that individuals have a better sense of their values and goals. Rather than comparing ourselves to others, we should learn and determine how much these values count in our investment decisions.

Buying Your First Home

Buying a house may be one of the most significant financial decisions you will make. Therefore, you must plan and prepare accordingly. It is important to have sufficient savings and research the real estate market to have an idea of what would work best with your financial situation in the long term. Verify the mortgage rates and other details of home purchases. And finding a trusted realtor is essential as well.

Getting Married

Marriage is an exciting time, filled with emotion and happiness. However, any new beginning will bring with it its own set of challenges, particularly in terms of finances. Therefore, it is essential to set the financial aspects of the wedding upfront to avoid credit card debts. Take advantage of rewards and perks of credit cards but pay off the balance as soon as possible. Remember that the financial health of the marriage is critical, and transparency is key.

Having Children

Expanding your family and having a baby might be one of the most significant decisions one can make. Therefore, the financial aspects of having children must be considered carefully. It is perhaps the most expensive period of our lives with costs for the upbringing totaling to an average of almost $170,000. Parents must work together and identify sustainable ways to care for their children while also meeting their financial goals.

Related Facts

• 84% of Gen Zers look to their family for financial literacy.
• 1/3 of millennials use investments that take ESG factors into account, as per CNBC poll.
• The average wedding costs almost $30,000.
• The average cost of raising a child is almost $170,000 from birth through age 17.

Key Takeaway

Financial planning is essential, and the best time to start is now. Whether you are starting your first job, getting married, buying a home, or planning for children, having a financial strategy in place can provide greater control and peace of mind. Work with financial advisors, value your goals, and make sustainable choices.

Conclusion

Everyone should consider milestones and major decisions an opportunity for financial planning and take advantage of resources like financial advisors and other experts to help them plan ahead. A robust strategy and commitment to making sound financial choices can make all the difference in the world.