Simple Ways to Stay Focused with Your Financial Goals

“The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” – Lao Tzu

Tackle the debt!

When I had over $80,000 amount of debt staring at me, it felt impossible. The anxiety and shame I felt, was extremely overwhelming - and if I can recommend anything if you are in a similar situation as I was, it’s this: don’t carry any shame. You are human and you are not alone. 

What began to help things for me was to break the debt into smaller, more manageable chunks. I started with the smallest debt (you probably have heard of the Snowball Method), and it didn’t feel so impossible if I focused my energy on that smallest debt. Even the largest debts, I broke them down into $500 increments so it felt more achievable. 

Here's a simple plan: 

1. List all your debts.
2. Choose a repayment strategy
3. Celebrate every milestone—paying off even $500 is a big deal.

“Where focus goes, energy flows.” – Tony Robbins

Create a Financial Freedom Vision Board

One of the most powerful tools I used was my financial freedom vision board. Every time I looked at it, I was reminded of my why. Instead of just staring at balances, I focused on this new version of me – this new reality that my family and I would be living in.  

Try this:

1. Get a poster board, cardboard, paper…whatever you have lying around.  You can even create an electronic version.
2. Add pictures, words, or quotes that represent financial freedom—things like vacations, family time, a dream home, no debt, or simply peace of mind. 
3. Include visual trackers for your debts (thermometers, charts, or progress bars).
4. Put it somewhere you’ll see it every day. Stare at it occasionally, and actually smile and “feel” the emotions of what it would feel like as if that was already your reality.  How would you feel if these were in your life right now: grateful, free, happy?