Why get serious about financial planning?

Today, i'm featuring an article written by one of my favorite financial writers, Rokai Kolam.

Q1 2011 has just passed, and I thought it would be nice to remind readers once again of the importance of planning out one's finances. So here goes:

Financial Planning Crucial During Hard Times 
By : Rokai Kolam     

 " It’s essential for people to plan their finances well especially during these difficult times. Even though you are employed or you run your own business, it’s not ideal to be complacent. What matters most is being able to manage your finances and not go overbudget so as to avoid going into debt. 


Living within your means is the way to go today. There are temptations around from clothes, cars and jewelry to the latest electronic gadgets. For this reason, practicing self-discipline is the most important step to take to avoid falling into these temptations. This is where financial planning proves highly valuable. 


Financial planning refers to meeting one’s financial goals by balancing income and expenditure to gain sufficient savings for future use and for security against potential risks. The most common objectives are for building wealth, children’s education and retirement purposes. With the right attitude and determination, financial planning can be easily achieved by following some important steps. 


A financial planner will initially recommend assessing one’s situation and setting goals. During this stage, one has to start considering getting a life insurance coverage for himself and his family. For those employed, they can enjoy a group insurance through the company they’re working for. However, for independent contractors working at home or those who operate their own business, buying an insurance coverage is the right thing to do. 


Setting aside a certain amount each payday is an ideal attitude. For the newly hired professionals, starting this endeavor as early as possible or as soon as you get your first paycheck is vital. But it’s never too late to do this. 


Expenditure-wise, people whether singles or married couples should make a list of their monthly expenses if possible to determine the average budget they need and the extra amount they can still save for themselves and their families. 


Credit card use should also be assessed as this is sometimes the root cause of a person’s debt. Most often, when an individual possesses a number of credit cards, he or she feels confident of spending more because there’s no cash involved. In the long run, when this attitude continues and the monthly balances are not paid off on time, the credit card owner falls into debt. 


People finding it hard to cope with their financial problems should not hesitate to consult a financial planner if they feel hopeless. A financial advisor or financial consultant can provide the proper advice to people facing financial difficulties. With their vast knowledge and experience, they are adept in teaching people the ways to free themselves from debt and other financial burdens. What they stress at most times is to always stick with your plan to be successful in your financial planning endeavor."

There you go, people. What he's saying is actually what i've been trying to say out loud to you. It doesn't matter if you're in the US or in the Philippines. The trap is universal. (You might want to read my article about the trap here) Avoid it while you can.

While at it, look at ways and means to earn extra (Read about it here). Then save what you'll earn, then invest. (Read articles about saving and investing here)


Make that choice now, readers. The rest of your lives are in your hands.