Image Credits: pixabay.com (CC0 Public Domain)
These days, there is no shortage of reasons why people are anxious about money. From higher unemployment rate to expensive school fees, everyone has their own share of financial stressors. And these accumulated stress can be detrimental to one’s health when not managed.
On that note, here are simple ways to conquer your inner beast:
1. DETERMINE WHAT STRESSES YOU OUT
Spare at least 10 minutes of your time to identify what triggers your financial stress. Whether it is dealing with your horrific credit card balance or realizing that you are barely hanging onto your job, write down your three greatest financial stressors at the moment. It is important to keep the list short to avoid feeling overwhelmed.
2. CHANGE YOUR MINDSET
Staying positive in a seemingly challenging financial situation can help you get your thoughts together and motivate you to change. Rather than mourning about your piles of debt, visualize how great your life can be with less of them. Then, repeat an internal dialogue that aims to conquer that stressor. For instance, you may vow to spend about S$100 less each month in order for you to pay more for your debts.
3. FOCUS ON SMALL AND SUSTAINABLE GOALS
You do not have to beat your financial stress head-on immediately. Just as crash diets can lead to burnout, overly ambitious financial goals can lead to quitting. So sustain your goals by identifying what you can actually achieve each day and each month.
4. REWARD YOURSELF
Set a realistic budget and reward yourself for sticking by it. Alvin Hall, an author and a financial commentator on BBC TV, once said that a helpful way to lower your stress is to purchase something that has a long-lasting positive personal effect…for the least amount of money. Personally, visiting museums that display exceptional art uplifts my spirits while costing me S$0-20 only!
If you cannot think of any rewards right now, consider reading this guide: “36 Things You Can Do In Singapore, Aside From Spending Too Much Money”.
5. WRITE DOWN WHAT YOU ARE GRATEFUL FOR
Before you fall into a deep slumber, write down at least three things that you are thankful for. This changes your focus from your financial stressors to the beautiful things that you might have taken for granted throughout the day. It does not have to be a big thing!
This quickie activity is focused on giving you a positive strategy to cope with life’s difficulties.
Image Credits: pixabay.com (CC0 Public Domain)
If all else fails, do not hesitate to seek help from your friends, family, or financial professionals.
