Procrastination according to one dictionary, is defined as the delay or putting off of, intentionally and habitually. In other dictionaries, there is also an added implication that what is "put off" is that which should be done immediately.
When it comes to financial skills discipline such as budgeting and saving, the issue of "putting off" or delaying financially that which should be done immediately or regularly can cause unnecessary financial burdens or eventual disaster.
During this holiday season, a time when prior financial skills discipline can really pay off, financial procrastination should have been firmly "nipped in the bud" long before now. But unfortunately, many people are not usually motivated to be financially disciplined in life until an important obligation or situation is in danger or close to being in dire straits!
During my 10 years as a consumer loan officer and time later as a financial skills counselor and educator, I can recall countless stories of families who experienced financial hardships who were continually depleting not just their regular savings, but even their emergency funds (if any at all) set aside.
Some of the heartache, stress and loss could have been avoided with maybe a little advance planning, saving, counseling and, or money strategizing.
This caused ongoing damaging stress and loss.
Is it possible that some of the heartache, stress and loss could have been avoided with maybe a little advance planning, saving, counseling and, or money strategizing?
Well certainly; because as we've probably all heard the saying before: "an ounce of prevention saves a pound of cure!" Or, in this case, a little financial discipline in areas such as budgeting, planning and saving, may prevent some if not a large portion of financial struggle later on. Remember...there is always help for those willing to seek and accept it.
So, let's turn those "dirty P and D" words into positive ones! Make them opportunities for your success and well-being.
Just try picking one P or all... Planning, Preparation, Persistence; for the D... Determined, Decisive, or Diligent. Once you start practicing, it becomes a lot easier and the accomplishment of your goals become that much closer to you~!
You owe it to yourself and family to get the help needed to "grow forward" making necessary changes and becoming more disciplined in managing and stewarding your finances.
If you are someone who struggles with procrastination or financial discipline and, or with life in general... or if any of the above resonates with you in the least bit, you owe it to yourself and family to get the help needed to "grow forward" making necessary changes and becoming more disciplined in managing and stewarding your finances.
Then, I believe you’ll not only begin to see…but will begin to experience the fruit of all your hard work!
C'Nise Sampson
Financial coach
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