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M$. New Money

Writer's picturePrecious Figueroa-Szostek

5 Ways to OWN the month!

Hey Bestie!


Starting your month off right is an incredible journey towards balance and purpose in our lives. For those of us who have anxiety, preparing for the month to receive some stress can change your overall thinking about the upcoming days. There are 5 habits you should be incorporating at the end of every month, to begin your next month off right! Going into the next month being intentional, grateful, clear minded will make for a great new month.


The Power of Monthly Preparation

Taking the time to prepare for the upcoming month is a valuable practice that can significantly impact your emotional and psychological well-being. Here's why:

  1. Reduced Stress and Anxiety: When you plan ahead, you have a clear roadmap for the month. This reduces the uncertainty and unpredictability of daily life, which can be a significant source of stress and anxiety. Knowing what to expect allows you to mentally prepare for challenges and opportunities, leading to a greater sense of control and calm.

  2. Increased Productivity: Planning helps you prioritize your tasks and set realistic goals. This organization can lead to increased productivity, as you're less likely to feel overwhelmed or scatterbrained. Accomplishing your goals and tasks boosts your self-esteem and overall sense of accomplishment.

  3. Enhanced Focus and Clarity: Setting intentions for the month provides you with a sense of purpose and direction. It helps you stay focused on what truly matters to you, both personally and professionally. This clarity of purpose can lead to a more profound sense of fulfillment and satisfaction.

  4. Improved Time Management: Planning encourages efficient time management. You're better equipped to allocate your time wisely, which can lead to more free time for self-care, relaxation, and pursuing activities that bring you joy. This balance contributes to your emotional well-being.

  5. Boosted Confidence: Successfully executing your monthly plans reinforces your belief in your abilities. Each accomplishment, no matter how small, bolsters your self-confidence. This newfound confidence can positively impact your mental and emotional state, making you feel more capable of overcoming challenges.

  6. Positive Reinforcement: Meeting your goals and sticking to your plans provides a continuous cycle of positive reinforcement. Each successful month reinforces the idea that you have control over your life and can achieve your desired outcomes, fostering a positive outlook on the future.

Preparing for the month ahead is not just about practicality; it's about nurturing your emotional and psychological well-being. It empowers you to manage stress, increase productivity, maintain focus, and boost your self-confidence—all of which contribute to a more fulfilling and content life. So, here's how:


Reflecting on the Previous Month

First is reflection. We can't take a step forward without thinking about what we just left. at least, for me.


Take a moment to reflect on the past month. It's time to count your blessings and recognize how gratitude can change our perspective.


Ask yourself:

What are you grateful for?

Whether it's the sunshine on your face or the smile of a loved one, jot down the things, big or small, that you're thankful for.


Did you accomplish any goals?

Those victories, no matter how small, deserve a celebration.


What did you learn from your experiences?

Learning is a lifelong journey, and each lesson shapes us.


Your favorite memory?

Take a mental stroll down memory lane and relive it in your mind.


What are you proud of yourself for?

Acknowledging your achievements can boost your self-esteem and remind you of your own incredible capabilities.


Looking Ahead with Clear Intentions

Now, let's shift our gaze towards the horizon of the month ahead. What are your goals, plans, and the experiences you want to have? Setting clear intentions is literally creating your success plan for your month. It guides your actions and keeps you focused.

And don't forget to pray for guidance and strength as you embark on this new month.


Here's my new month prayer:

Dear Lord, as we step into this new month, we pray for clarity in our goals, wisdom in our decisions, and the strength to overcome any challenges that come our way. May this month be filled with love, joy, and growth. Amen.

Acknowledging Improvements - Our Journey of Growth

No one is perfect, and there's always room for improvement. Take a moment to acknowledge areas where you can do better. Think about the challenges you faced last month and how you overcame them. These obstacles were your stepping stones to resilience and problem-solving skills.


Consider the areas of your life where you've grown or evolved recently. It's like recognizing the better version of yourself that's emerging.


Can you recall a situation where you stepped out of your comfort zone? Celebrate your courage and willingness to embrace new experiences.


Have you learned something valuable from a mistake or setback? Reflect on the lessons they taught you, for mistakes are the stepping stones to success.


How have your relationships with others improved or deepened recently? Consider the positive changes or connections you've experienced. It's about recognizing the value you bring to others' lives.


Think about the self-care practices you've incorporated into your routine and how they've benefited you. Self-care is a vital part of personal growth and self-love.


Is there a skill or hobby you've been working on, and what progress have you made? Share your passion for learning or developing new talents. It's about celebrating your dedication and progress.


Have you shown kindness or made a positive impact on someone else's life recently? Reflect on acts of kindness or moments where you've uplifted someone. Small gestures can have a big impact. Think about how you've managed your time and priorities better than before. Consider time management techniques that have allowed you to focus on what truly matters. This question highlights your ability to be more efficient.


Financial Responsibility - Your Path to Freedom

If you are like me, finances make my tummy hurt.But we want to change that reaction, where our finances don't scare us but actually comfort us. It might seem daunting, but taking control of your finances is ironically also your ticket to financial freedom.


Categorizing transactions and reconciling accounts is like putting together the pieces of a financial puzzle. It can make you feel in control, because you can see what you spend most of your money on, which should make you more aware and limit the expenses in the next month. Overall, knowing how you spend your money makes you more conscious and aware to how to save money.


Budgeting, on the other hand, isn't just about numbers; it's about aligning your financial decisions with your dreams and aspirations. It's about saying, "I'm taking charge of my financial future." This sense of control and purpose can be incredibly liberating. What some people don't know about budgeting is that it is not meant to erase what makes you happy, it is actually about prioritizing what makes you happy.


Budgeting is simply allocating your spending money to the things that matter most to you, and giving you a guide to how much you can spend for those items.


Clean and Prepare - A Fresh Start

Lastly, ever hear the saying, your room is a visual representation of how you are doing monthly? This may or may not be true... bombastic side eye.


Anyway.


In my case, this is spot on. When my mind is a mess so is my physical space. So take some time to deep clean, organize, and light a candle. Give yourself on day 1 of the new month, a fresh beginning with a clean living space.


By following these habits, you're not only starting your month off right but also setting yourself up for success, growth, and a deeper connection with your faith.


xoxo,

The Minimalist Bestie Signature

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