Being financially literate is essential during this pandemic and the rise of the digital economy. It will help workers keep up with the changes of our time and thrive in the new normal. To understand the effects of inflation, investment risks, and long-term financial planning, we all need to have the knowledge to effectively manage our financial resources.
Qualities of a Financially Literate Person
Their Money Is in Various Places
Diversification is putting money in various areas like stocks or financial and investment products. This way, if ever something fails in one of those areas, you’ll still maintain overall stability as you have other reserved funds. Here are some tips on how to diversify your investments:
- Invest in Life Insurance:It’s always a good idea to invest in life insurance to maintain your financial security, especially insurance plans with market-linked investments. For instance, various bancassuranceproducts offer accessible funds where you can make partial withdrawals if necessary.
- Practice Asset Allocation:While stocks are considered high-risk with equally high returns, bonds are generally safer with lower returns. Minimize your risk exposure by dividing your money between these options and finding the balance between certainty and risk.
- Invest in Mutual Funds:Aside from being a highly liquid investment, mutual funds are also invested in various assets to avoid losing your investments.
They Make Sure to Set Aside Savings
Setting aside money is the simplest way to build your wealth and make your way towards financial freedom. To achieve your financial goals faster, allot a portion of your disposable income for various investments.
They Have Multiple Streams of Income
Like diversification, having multiple streams of income can help you obtain greater financial stability. It can also allow you to invest more and pay off any debts faster. Financially literate people know the downsides of living paycheck to paycheck without other financial sources, like accumulating debts and being unprepared in case of a crisis. Having a small business or side hustle can help increase your savings and emergency fund.
Improving Your Financial Literacy
Read Magazines or Online Articles
Reading articles about financial topics is an excellent way to improve your understanding of money matters. You can gain long-term insight, learn financial trends, and have solid advice that you can use for your financial planning.
Listen to Podcasts About Finance
Listening to podcasts is a convenient way to be more informed about handling your money and planning your financial future.Podcastersalso focus more on the realities of finance and investments, so listeners can share their own stories or raise some issues and have them addressed.
Download Financial Management Apps
There are variousfinancial appsavailable online to help you learn and manage your finances conveniently. They have features that simplify your money tasks like organizing your expenses, tracking your budget and income, checking your credit score, and sending reminders for bill payments. Here are other benefits of using financial apps:
- They Have a User-friendly Interface:Personal finance apps feature an easy-to-use interface and a wide range of tools to better manage your finances. They also feature direct access to all the financial information you need and do tasks like scheduling transactions.
- You Gain More Confidence with Your Financial Decisions:Sometimes, you may be hesitant to make financial decisions due to their personal risks. Using a personal finance app can make you feel more confident in managing your money because you understand your spending and oversee your expenses, income, and debts.
- You Commit Fewer Mistakes:All financial transactions should be done carefully to avoid any mistakes. You can review your past transactions using your financial app to spot any errors and make it easier to catch any errors.
Talk to a Financial Advisor
A financial advisor can answer all your financial questions, from basic money situations to more complex scenarios. They can also help you make a plan for your financial needs by assessing your current situation and helping you stay on track moving forward.
They also serve as your financial planning partner, helping you accomplish your future financial goals. If you want to retire or send your child to a university, your financial advisor can help you turn your plans into reality. Also, part of an advisor’s task is to discuss what is involved in your future financial goals and help you understand insurance, taxes, and complex investments.
Being financially literate can make you confident and knowledgeable in saving, investing, and managing your money. It serves as a solid foundation for your financial success and helps you make good decisions that will make a better life for yourself and your family.