Wealth and Wisdom: Week of May 31, 2021

It’s springtime. Kids are graduating. The pandemic is easing.

These things have us thinking about a fresh start, new beginnings. And this week’s Wealth and Wisdom is all about helping you head down the right financial track, or to get back on it. It’s never too early – or too late – to start doing things that will make you better off in the future.

So get out there and smell the pollen roses. Have a great week! 

College students are stoked

Today’s college students are feeling more optimistic about their financial futures.  (Reading time: 2 minutes)

A spending plan for new grads

Building wealth and security has less to do with how much you make – and more to do with how you spend it.  (Reading time: 9 minutes)

Financial Life Planner

This 13-step guide will take you from the starting line to retirement.  (Reading time: 2 minutes for the home page)

The virtue of thrift

This financial blogger learned some valuable financial lessons from his grandparents who found a way to do more with less.  (Reading time: 7 minutes)

5 questions to ask before you invest

How to check out a financial advisor – and the investments he or she recommends.  (Reading time: 3 minutes)

9 ways to lower your mortgage payment

Owning a home can be a great way to build equity – especially when you keep the monthly payments manageable.  (Reading time: 5 minutes)

Managing risk

Insurance can help protect you from life’s surprises and keep you on the path to your financial goals.  (Reading time: 5 minutes)

Saving for retirement, at any age

Your financial priorities will change as you move through life. Here’s what to expect.  (Reading time: 6 minutes)

Retirement budget-busters

As you approach retirement, be ready for some surprises – especially with taxes, health care, and long-term care.  (Reading time: 4 minutes)

Mike’s Pro Tip of the Week

Setting a savings goal – what percentage of your income you will pay yourself first – is a key decision when you’re just getting started. The sooner you commit, the faster your savings will grow. Taking a “pay cut” can be a painful process, but if you think about it – you only have to experience that pain once. If you can save 15% of your income and find a way to live well on the remaining 85%, you’ll never have to go through that process again. Every raise will automatically allow you to improve your standard of living while saving more money at the same time. Do it now.

Words to the Wise

“Don’t let the opinions of the average man sway you. Dream, and he thinks you’re crazy. Succeed, and he thinks you’re lucky. Acquire wealth, and he thinks you’re greedy. Pay no attention. He simply doesn’t understand.”

– Robert G. Allen 

Neither The Mike Brown Financial Group nor its employees provide tax and legal advice. Please consult your tax and legal advisors regarding your personal circumstances.

Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc.  Mike Brown Financial Group is not a registered broker/dealer and is independent of Raymond James Financial Services.