Additional Posts From This Author
Inflation has been in the news for the better part of the past two years, and it's showing no signs of going away. While we can't control inflation, we can control how we react to it. What is inflation? Inflation is a persistent increase in the overall price level of goods and services in an...
How much should you save for retirement? 10%, right? Retirement planning has long been a topic of discussion, with the age-old advice of saving 10% of your income often touted as the golden rule. However, as we navigate through the complexities of the modern financial landscape, it has become increasingly evident that this traditional wisdom...
Reading books is one of the best uses of your time. And if you read enough, you have to do something with all those books you're collecting. Whether you're into superheroes, science, or fantasy worlds, a geek library is the secret to unlocking your imagination and boosting your brainpower. Don't worry if you're new to...
Timing the market is one of the most difficult things for an investor to do. Consistently, timing the market is almost impossible. But that doesn’t mean smart investors shouldn’t pay close attention to the market to exploit money-making opportunities. Advanced investors know that there are strategies they can use to time the market like a...
While most job interviews last 60 minutes, studies show you only have seven seconds to make a good impression, making them a nerve-wracking experience. Your first impression could make or break your future career; naturally, interviewees want to perform well under that pressure. And believe it or not, it’s not just the words you say...
Hang around the personal finance community enough, and you'll probably hear the word “leverage” thrown around. As in “leverage debt.” But unless you have a firm grasp of leverage, you might be confused about what it means. Debt often carries a negative connotation, conjuring images of unmanageable credit card bills or crushing student loans. However,...
Bad news for student loan borrowers. The nearly three-year reprieve of making student loan payments ends this month as borrowers must resume payments beginning in October. If you're dreading this news, don't worry. Paying back your student loans is important, but it's not impossible. After all, you had almost three years to get your finances...
Are you looking for jobs you can do from anywhere, like your home or a cozy coffee shop? Well, you're in luck! This article will describe seven places to find remote work jobs and opportunities. Remote work is becoming increasingly popular these days, and there are many websites and platforms where you can search for...
Does your home office suck? Working from home is a great way to make money. But not all home offices are created equal. You could be less efficient with the wrong office setup and even damage your health. While some provide a productive and comfortable work environment, others can be far from ideal, leading to...
Imagine retiring early and living your dream life without draining your bank account.Retiring early and living your dream life is a goal that many individuals strive for. One of the critical factors in achieving this goal is finding an affordable place to settle down. Look for cities with low housing costs, reasonable healthcare expenses, and...
Retiring early sounds great, doesn't it? I did just that. I quit work at 356 after spending a 14-year career in information technology. For me, it was the best decision I ever could have made. Imagine getting up whenever you want and doing whatever you want every day. It sounds great for most of us,...
Collectively, we owe more than $1.77 trillion in student loan debt in the United States, according to the Federal Reserve. The $1.7 trillion in student debt is a 3% increase from 2020 and a far cry from the $905 billion that we owed just 11 years ago. Let's talk about how to pay off student...
With the average yearly tuition cost of Ivy League schools reaching $60,000 a year, it begs an important question: Are Ivy League schools worth it? There is no question that top-ranked universities look good on the resume. They also have state-of-the-art facilities, world-renowned faculty, and access to a wide range of academic and extracurricular programs....
It's always the same thing when it comes to advice about your career, isn’t it? Try your best. Be proactive. Dress professionally. But, this doesn’t even scratch the surface of what it takes to propel your career forward and make lots of money truly. Throughout my career, I worked in information technology. I went from...
Do you want to earn more money in the future? Maybe you are getting bored in your career and need to make a change? Or, perhaps you want to recession-proof your future? Working in an in-demand industry will help your career prospects in several ways. First, it helps ensure that you’ll have a good job...
If you are like most people, then you are probably making several mistakes with your money, and you don’t even know it’s happening. These mistakes very often fly under the radar. They are hidden. But, the results are not. Making the wrong money decisions keep us from building wealth and prevent us from achieving our...
I know, this sounds super condescending. Maybe even over-simplified. Things are never really THAT simple, are they? Fair enough. So here, let’s put it another way. If you want to be above average, then you can’t keep acting like you’re average. Living an above-average life means you’re making decisions consistent with being above average, not just...
If homeownership is the American Dream, it's quickly become one of the most expensive dreams you can imagine. The dream of homeownership often comes with a hefty price tag that goes beyond the initial down payment and mortgage payments. Many aspiring homeowners underestimate the true cost of owning a home. Those costs add up fast....
How can you tell that it’s time to start looking for a new job? It might be time to find a new job even if you like where you work. It’s great to like your job, but don’t let that stop you from making an intelligent career choice. The most successful professionals are proactive. They...
Most of us know the stock market, at least in concept. The idea is we buy assets like stocks and bonds, hold them for a period of time (hopefully a long time), and hope the value of those assets increases. When we sell, we make money. Pretty simple, right? However, there is another method of...
Warren Buffett is regarded as one of the most successful investors ever, with an estimated net worth of over $106 billion. Investors who want to make money in the stock market should look at what Buffett is doing and adopt those strategies. Unless you don’t like making money, that is. His investment strategy is based...
First, congratulations are in order. You're getting a financial windfall! Maybe you won the lottery (not likely). Or perhaps it's an inheritance from a rich uncle you never knew you had. A financial windfall, whether from an inheritance, a lottery win, or a significant bonus, can be a life-changing event. However, it's crucial to manage...
There is no better way to build wealth than with investing. But investing also punishes people who don’t understand their investments or are overly active, especially in 2023. If you're new to investing, or even if you've been doing it for a while, it's important to be aware of the most common investing mistakes and...
I retired in my mid-30s after a 14-year career in information technology. I didn’t own my own business. I didn’t win the lottery. No inheritance, either. I built wealth by doing the things that seem unpopular but are crucial to building wealth. These techniques may not be comfortable, but they work. Use these five unpopular...
Let's face it: we're addicted to our phones. We feel naked without them; they are a huge part of our lives. Maybe too much. How can you make your phone less addicting? This article will discuss six ways to make your phone less addicting so you can get back to doing what you do best...
You might know Mark Cuban as the former owner of the Dallas Mavericks NBA basketball team, but he’s also a brilliant businessman worth over $6.2 billion as of 2024. Years ago, Cuban published a short video of his nine rules for getting rich. I agree with many of them, but two of his rules are...
Being confident is the secret sauce for success in various aspects of life, including financial success. When you believe in yourself and your abilities, you're more likely to take risks, seize opportunities, and make the decisions that lead to increased income. In this article, we'll explore the vital role confidence plays in your financial journey...
How to get rich. It's a simple phrase, but yet, it is one of the most challenging parts of life that we all naturally want. Getting rich means several different things. It means that we've amassed a fortune, generally through investments, earning a high income, and doing whatever it takes to make money. It also...
Do you know how much you need before calling it quits at work? Let's answer the question: How much do I need to retire? Retirement is a time when you can finally step back from your career and enjoy the fruits of your labor. However, to ensure a comfortable and worry-free retirement, it's essential to figure...
For most of us, talking about ourselves is easy. But turn on the spotlight and ask us to describe ourselves in the middle of a high-pressure interview, and many of us suddenly lose that built-in ability. “Tell me about yourself” is often an interviewer's first question. It's a simple question but one of the most...
I’ll say it: Most candidates shoot themselves in the foot by making easy mistakes every time they walk into an interview. Throughout my career, I’ve seen it all. Within the first 5 minutes of an interview, I already have a pretty good idea of the outcome. From the clothes they wear to how they answer...
Do you have any questions for me? Most interviews end the same way. The interviewer will ask the candidate if they have any questions for them before the interview is wrapped up. As a hiring manager who has hired hundreds of people in my career, I would ask this question every single time. And, the...
When you know, you know. Sometimes, it’s clear that you’ve reached the end of the road in your current position. Being proactive by noticing these signs and looking for another job before things get bad will help us to transition into a new (and better) role quickly and easily. 7 Signs You Should Be Looking...
It’s never easy getting fired from a job (of course), but sometimes, you can predict the inevitable. It may not be a shock if you know what to look for. Keep your ears and eyes open at the office. Or if you’re working from home, pay attention during staff meetings and read those emails, especially...
There’s plenty that you probably don’t want to talk about at work. For instance, sex is front and center. But, there’s something else that you’re probably talking about every day, and it could be ruining your career. According to a survey by Monster, almost four in 10 workers regularly talk about politics in the workplace....
Getting a job offer is exciting, isn’t it? It’s great knowing that there’s a brand new opportunity at your doorstep, and it’s tempting to say “yes” right away. But, that could be a mistake. Not all job offers will be right for you. I hate to be a buzzkill, but there are several questions that...
Want to make more money in 2022? One of the best ways to boost your salary is to ask for a raise. But before you do, make sure you’re not setting yourself up for failure. For years, I managed an information technology department and got to listen to employees ask for more money quite often....
Plan on leaving your current job? Believe it or not, there’s science behind writing a good resignation letter that is complete and purposeful. When leaving your position, you need to do this. Never neglect this professional courtesy to your current employer. Don’t worry, resignation letters can be easy and informal. The purpose of a resignation...
Sometimes, it’s great to talk to someone who knows what they are talking about, and career coaches are definitely no exception. If you’re thinking about changing careers, or you’re unhappy in your current role, maybe it’s time to chat with a seasoned coach. 10 Questions To Ask Your Career Coach The best career coaches are...
I will never work in an office again. I don’t care what the job is or how much money they offer me. I refuse. It is not going to happen. For the last five years, I’ve worked from home every day. My morning and evening commute lasts about 10 seconds. Less time wasted sitting on...
Unless you have been living under a rock lately, you probably know that real estate is hot right now. Homes around the country are routinely selling for 20% or more over asking. Real estate agents are raking in the money, and maybe you want a part of that? Income as a real estate agent heavily...
Do you keep getting passed over when applying for a new job? There are many reasons why this can happen. First, most corporate job openings get a lot of resumes. According to Glassdoor, each job opening sees about 250 applicants. Of those, employers call five or six candidates in for an interview. Second, consider the...
Do you feel stuck in your career? Many of us do, and it’s because you’re not doing the things necessary to keep leveling up professionally. That includes continuously improving our job roles. Our responsibilities. And, yes, our salary. Successful people manage their careers proactively. They don’t leave their success to chance. Want to make more...
Are you fed up with your career? You’re not alone. One study found that close to one-third of professionals between 25 and 44 have considered a career change. Nearly 30% have changed careers after starting their first job. Why do people make a career change? It could be to join a career field with high...
If you’re like most people, writing your retirement letter is more complicated than you might think. After all, you are at the end of your career. It’s exciting! Now it’s time to enjoy life after work, free from the endless meetings, corporate mission statements, and that annoying coworker in the next cube that you were...
The pandemic has forced many of us to take a good, hard look at our lives and careers. And if you’re like many people, you’re re-considering working full-time until 65. A whopping 77% of American workers have experienced burnout working a full-time job. And more than eight in 10 workers from the same study said...
The phone might seem old-fashioned. But, the phone is still used today for important business like conducting job interviews and phone-screen calls. A telephone interview is a common way for a company to get a high-level feel for candidates who applied for an open position before inviting them in for an in-person interview. These “phone-screen”...
With the cost of living going up and the minimum wage going down, the number of older Americans and poor retirees is on the rise. Workers can barely stick their necks above the waters, and it forces people to retire poor. The situation is common, although this is more prominent in some countries than in...
Most people’s resumes are boring. I spent 14-years hiring and firing staff within the information technology sector. Over those years, I’ve read thousands of resumes. I threw most of them away within 10 seconds. They were dull, and repetitive and most of them put me to sleep. The resumes I kept were impressive. They were...
For most of us, working isn’t much fun. And this is especially true when we hate our jobs. When we dislike what we do, our work suffers. We are frustrated and angry all the time. And this relentless hatred can negatively affect our careers. It reduces the quality of our work and keeps us battling...
Most people’s resumes are boring. I spent 14-years hiring and firing staff within the information technology sector. Over those years, I’ve read thousands of resumes. I threw most of them away within 10 seconds. They were dull and repetitive, and most of them put me to sleep. The resumes I kept were impressive. They were tailored...
Early retirement isn't rocket science, though sometimes it can seem like it. Early retirees quit the rat race years (and sometimes decades) before the traditional retirement age of 62 to 65. I retired from full-time work at 35 and know a thing or two about how this works. It seems complicated, but it's not. It...
Picture retirement in your head. What does it look like? Are you sitting on the beach sipping cocktails, sunk deep into a comfy sofa in a cozy mountain cabin, or walking to nearby restaurants from your apartment in the big city? Retirement will look very different for all of us. And one of the most...
What are you giving up to build your career? Maybe you are compromising time at home with your family. Or perhaps it’s your health, integrity, or self-respect. The fact is most of us give up something to work on our careers. But here’s the truth: Healthy careers don’t feel like a sacrifice. When we feel...
It seems like everything is a subscription now. While not all subscription packages are created equal, many subscription options are entirely worth the money. And, they will make you 10x more productive, too. Here are ten monthly subscriptions that are worth the price. 1: Spotify There’s nothing like a bit of music to get you...
How much money should I have at retirement? That’s one of the most challenging questions for most who are approaching retirement age. There are many variables in play for most people. Inflation is making things more expensive while Social Security is drying up. Healthcare continues to get more costly. With all these unknowns, is it...
Email alone could be a full-time job. Every day I’m wading through my emails, quickly tossing the ones that are clearly spam but also deleting emails that I don’t want to take the time to read. I’m busy. We are all busy. And for most of us, spending time going through our emails during the...
Interviewing is an art as much as it is a science. The idea is to impress your interviewers, and one of the best ways to do that is by appearing as competent as possible in the interview. Don’t worry, you don’t need to study for hours before an interview. You don’t need to know the...
The influence luck plays on our success is hugely controversial, but it shouldn't be. While I believe that luck exists, it also has much less to do with our level of success than we think it does. People who always “get lucky” aren't just getting lucky. Their decisions put them in a position to succeed....
90% of top performers have high EQ – and earn an average of $29,000 more per year than those with low EQ. EQ stands for emotional quotient – your emotional intelligence, or your ability to control your emotions and think about problems calmly and rationally. According to TalentSmart, emotional intelligence is the strongest predictor of...
I spent a 14-year career interviewing people for all types of jobs. I typically knew within the first five minutes of the interview if that person was going to make it. It is not difficult to set yourself apart from other candidates during the interview. Most candidates don't interview well. They make the same mistakes....
Sometimes, a good reference can make all the difference. While not all employers will ask for references, some will, and smart job seekers will be ready to provide those references if required. The better your references, the better your chances of getting the position. And yes, who you pick as a reference matters. In general,...
Most of us don't build wealth by obeying the rules of society. Successful people break them. I'm not talking about breaking the law. I mean breaking the unwritten expectations that society places on us throughout our lives and career. These rules stunt our progress because they trap us into taking the slow road or letting...
Want to be a millionaire? Most millionaires automate their financial lives. Financial automation is like the “Easy Button” to building wealth. You just set it and forget it. Financial automation lets us regularly pay our monthly bills without lifting a finger. It makes avoiding late fees easy. Many credit card companies, utilities, and banks support auto...
If you aren’t continuously learning, you are doing something wrong. Every year, I learn something new. It’s a process I love, and this habit of learning has made me wiser. The more we know, the more successful we become as people. Here are ten lessons in life that most people (including myself) learn far too...
I became a millionaire in my mid-30s after working a 14-year career in information technology. Since reaching the double-comma club, I’ve learned a lot about millionaires. I know what makes them tick. I have spent years studying the habits of millionaires. And there are common traits and techniques they used to get to where they...
Experts say more than half the population believes that investing is too complicated or challenging for them to be able to handle. But it's not. Investing can be insanely easy. Numbers show the less time you spend on your investments, the more money you'll make. In fact, 95% of day traders lose money over time. ...
The ‘Great Resignation' is one thing. But far too many people don't leave their jobs voluntarily, but get terminated for cause. Often, that cause is us. We sabotage ourselves without even realizing it. Sometimes it’s obvious. Abusing alcohol or purposely hurting ourselves is clear self-sabotage. But with our careers, we often don’t see just how...
Did you know that only 2% of financial success is explained by having a high IQ? That, according to research by a Nobel laureate, helps explain why having a good personality will get you farther than just being smart. If you’ve ever wondered if you’re savvy enough to accomplish your goals, the answer is simple:...
It is never too late to build wealth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, workers earn the most, on average, when they are between the ages of 35 and 54. While it's true that compound interest favors the earliest investors, there are still clever techniques to maximize your wealth-building potential in your 40s and...
Experts estimate that by 2026, there will be more than 87.5 million people across the globe with at least $1 million in wealth. As of November 1, 2022, there are 22 million millionaires – or nearly 9% of the population. Millionaires are some of the best teachers in the world. Think about it. Every day, they...
Let’s face it, we all feel stressed out sometimes. It might be your career that’s the cause of your stress. Or your relationship. Whatever it is, stress eats away at your happiness. Stress is a devastating phenomenon. It affects virtually every aspect of the body, including our muscular, respiratory and cardiovascular systems. Long-term stress can...
Interviewing for most jobs isn’t hard. But when the pressure is on, we make things more complicated than they need to be. This is especially true with job interviews. As a rule, many candidates make the same mistakes, over and over. And these mistakes are destroying your career. Remember, the hiring manager has done interviewers...
A third of Americans don't have a plan for retirement. Even fewer have a backup plan if things go wrong. Millions of people face an expensive medical emergency unprepared. Hundreds of people are unexpectedly laid off every month. You never know what will happen. You'd think we would have learned after the COVID shelter at...
People make dumb mistakes with their money all the time. When asked in 2019, approximately 126 million adults in the United States admitted to Finder.com that they had made at least one money mistake in their lifetime. What's worse, most of the errors that people make are avoidable. I achieved financial independence in my mid-30s....
Imagine this: You’re interviewing for a new job. You’re doing great. You answered every question confidently, and it’s clear that you are impressing your interviewers. Then, the single most crucial question gets asked, and how you answer this one question can make or break the entire interview. Answer it well, and you’ve got the job....
Are you on track to be a millionaire? Do you want to be? I've studied millionaires for years. I took notes on their habits, how they lived, and their choices. And while all millionaires are different, they have particular habits in common. These habits go beyond just money. Financial success is determined equally by your...
Utility bills, like electricity and water, are among our most significant monthly expenses. Unfortunately, rising inflation affects utility rates just like it does almost every other expense in your life. Fortunately, there are smart things we can do to lower those bills almost immediately. Most of us know about the typical ways to save electricity...
A career survey conducted by FlexJobs reports that 65% of respondents want to work remotely full-time, while another 32% wanted a hybrid work environment. That's 87% of the workforce that desires some form of remote work. Clearly remote jobs and interviews are more common today. For one, employers can use them to interview a larger...
If you’re like most people, you haven’t distilled your free time down into a dollar figure. But it's important when looking at making more money or finding a proper work-life balance. What’s the point of figuring out the value of your free time? You might want to maximize your income. Maybe you’re looking to set...
The odds of winning the Powerball jackpot by matching all numbers drawn are 1 in 292,201,338, according to the lottery. But people win all the time. While they're not raking in millions, hundreds of people win between 10 and 100-thousand dollars every year. What would you do if you won the lottery or received a...
When building wealth and getting wealthy, our money habits profoundly affect us. They control – sometimes unconsciously, how we operate every day. For example, our habits control when we go to bed and get up, the route we take on our commute to work, the path we follow to get to our desks, our lunchtime...
Being a millionaire is deceiving. They represent the top 10% of wealth in the United States, and people often think of millionaires as suit-wearing, BMW-driving professionals with cut-throat personalities and questionable ethics. But for most millionaires, that couldn't be further from the truth. 8.8% of U.S. adults are millionaires and the majority live just like...
“House poor” describes a house so expensive that it requires a significant percentage of your cash flow every month. It's a position you want to avoid being in. Generally, financial experts recommend spending at most about 30% of your monthly budget on your house – including your mortgage, utilities, and property taxes. If you spend...
Starting an Amazon FBA (Fulfillment by Amazon) business can be a great way to earn extra income or turn it into a full-time business. And luckily, starting one isn’t difficult. With FBA, you get access to Amazon’s worldwide customer base and insanely efficient fulfillment system, which lets you focus on finding and sourcing profitable products....
What a year it’s been so far for the stock market. Wild swings are keeping investors on edge, and some of the best-performing stocks of last year are down more than 40% so far this year. Why? It’s a combination of things, including lower-than-expected earnings reports from major companies, inflation worries, and federal reserve interest...
Studies show, despite the stress typically associated with asking for more money at work, 78% of people who ask will receive a raise. Meanwhile, only 2% of people who didn't ask for a raise, got one anyways. Asking for a pay increase is a nerve-wracking experience for many people. What if they say no? Will...
Congratulations, you got a job offer! You want the job, but you also need to take advantage of this opportunity. Getting a job offer is a perfect time to ask for more money. After all, they gave you an offer because they see value in your skills and experience. They want you there. Now it’s...
For many of us, it’s easy to believe that our careers aren’t going as planned. Maybe your salary is lower than you hoped. Or perhaps your job title isn’t quite as impressive as you planned. That doesn’t mean your career isn’t successful. There is more to careers than money and titles. In fact, your career...
Crowdfunding has become popular for people to invest small amounts of money in startups and early-stage companies, and in the U.S. alone, investors make over $17 billion yearly. Many different types of companies rely on crowdfunding to generate capital. Technology companies are among the most common, but health and wellness companies, fashion companies, and social...
When investing in the stock market, there are two high-level approaches that most investors choose between: active and passive. While both methods work, one has been much more successful than the other. And you might be surprised at which one will likely make you richer. Active vs. Passive Investing: The Pros and Cons What’s the...
Investing in real estate is a great way to diversify your stock portfolio and generate passive income for years. If real estate investing is new to you, it can seem confusing. But don’t let that stop you from building your first portfolio of real estate assets. Real estate can be intimidating at first, but like...
Every organization on the face of the planet needs talented leaders. Developing leadership skills should be your top priority if you want a higher-paying career. Leadership skills can help you stand out as a top performer, increase your job satisfaction, and even lead to higher salaries and promotions. But how can you develop these skills...
Health Savings Accounts, or HSAs, are investment goldmines that effectively give millions of people access to another traditional 401(k). When it comes to financial planning, most people focus on traditional investment options like stocks, bonds, and real estate. However, one often overlooked financial tool can help you build wealth and achieve financial security: the Health...
Changing careers can be daunting, but it can also be a rewarding and fulfilling experience when you do it right. It can fix problems with your work/life balance and help you make considerably more money. Whether stuck in your current profession or seeking new challenges and opportunities, a career makeover requires careful planning and consideration....
Real estate investment can be lucrative but requires knowledge, strategy, and careful decision-making. Are you a first-time real estate investor ready to diversify your investment portfolio with real estate? From defining your goals to building a powerhouse network, this article reveals the top tips to make your foray into a profitable adventure. For first-time investors,...
I’ve written a lot about starting a side hustle from scratch, and it’s a great way to bring in additional income. However, did you know that buying established small businesses can be an equally lucrative business strategy? Becoming a business owner can be an exciting and rewarding venture, especially when you consider the option of...
The ability to work from home has changed the way we do business. The global workforce has recently witnessed a significant shift towards remote work due to technological advancements and the COVID-19 pandemic. And if you like ditching your commute for home-based work, you probably like the changes. As the world adapts to these changes,...
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, you are probably aware that inflation is hitting the pocketbooks of Americans (and the rest of the world) hard. To combat inflation, it’s wise to tweak your money strategy. Inflation is an economic phenomenon that affects the purchasing power of individuals and erodes the value of money over...
Believe it or not, your kids can get a credit card even if they aren’t over 18. By adding them as an authorized user, your kids can start building credit from an early age. But how young is too young for your kids to get a card? The answer is simple: There is no such...
Have you ever heard the phrase, “Renting is throwing your money away?” I’m sure you have. It assumes that unless you’re paying a mortgage and building equity in your home, you’re wasting your money by paying someone else’s. It’s true that you will never build equity if you don’t own a home. However, homeownership is...
In today's fast-paced world, time is a precious commodity. We often juggle various responsibilities, leaving little room for leisure and relaxation. However, understanding the value of our free time can help us make informed decisions about allocating this precious resource. By calculating the worth of our free time, we can prioritize activities that bring us...
This article will probably make you upset. But don’t worry, it’s for your own good. Marketers play tricks on consumers, and they work way too well. These marketing tricks make us spend more money on expensive products even though we think we’re getting a deal. For instance, are you surprised that most stores place toys...
We’ve all heard of the 401(k) and Roth IRA, but those aren’t the only options to invest for retirement. Lesser-known investment strategies can provide unique opportunities to bolster your retirement savings and enhance financial security. In this article, we will explore four little-known ways to invest for retirement, shedding light on these hidden gems that...
Are you house poor? Believe it or not, more people are house poor than they realize. Being “house poor” is a term we use to describe a situation where someone spends a big chunk of their income on house-related expenses, leaving them with very little money for other things. When you're pouring so much money...
You'd be wrong if you think your IQ is the only thing interviewers care about. Employers increasingly use EQ questions in the interview to assess your EQ or emotional intelligence. After all, it's easy to teach the job. It's not so easy to teach personality or “fit” in an organization. EQ is like having a...
If you're not using home automation, you might be throwing your money away. One of the most significant advancements in recent years is home automation. Home automation refers to integrating smart devices and technologies that enable homeowners to control and manage various aspects of their living spaces remotely. From lighting and thermostats to security cameras...
We've all heard the usual tips for reducing home energy costs: turn off lights when you leave a room, unplug electronics when not in use, and adjust your thermostat. But what if I told you there are lesser-known methods that can shave dollars off your energy bills? These clever strategies may not have crossed your...
I live and breathe personal finance, and as a money writer, I've read my fair share of personal finance books. One of my favorites is “I Will Teach You To Be Rich” by Ramit Sethi (not just because my picture is in the book). It's a must-read book if you want to improve your financial...
Want to save money? Who doesn't? It seems like we all want to save some cash, but you might be spending money on things that are hurting your ability to build wealth. The problem is commercials flash many products in front of us that look cool. There is constant pressure to keep up with the...
Back-to-school time can be exciting for the kiddos (and even more exciting for you, the parents!), but it can also put a dent in your wallet. Don't worry. The good news is there are smart ways to save money while getting everything your kids need for the school year. Before you drop hundreds of dollars...
Buying your first house is an exciting milestone, but it can also be a daunting and complex process. First-time homebuyers get caught up in the excitement and make the same four mistakes during the buying process. Don't get so caught up in the thrill that you regret your decision to buy your first home. These...
Investing in the stock market has made millions richer than ever imagined. Unfortunately, it's also caused some to lose a lot of money. The difference between those two extremes is avoiding common investing mistakes that too many people make. In this article, we'll examine the top 7 investing mistakes and how to avoid them. If...
If you're in the market for a new car, you've probably thought about this question. You might have heard that it's not a great idea to lease cars, but that's not the full story. Believe it or not, there are legitimate reasons why leasing a car might be in your best interest. In this article,...
Summer is nearly over, and the holiday season is right around the corner. If you're tired of the last-minute financial stress that often comes with the holidays, it's time to start planning and saving now so you're not scrambling this winter. Planning early almost always makes it easier to manage your holiday spending later. Let's...
So, you want to be a manager, huh? A management job can be incredibly rewarding, but it's also one of the most demanding and stressful jobs out there. If you're ready to take that next step in your career, there are things to do now to prepare yourself for that promotion. Preparing for a management...
Believe it or not, you could be killing your career without knowing it. Remember, building a successful career is like building wealth – it takes time, effort, and making the right choices. Investing in yourself and your career is as important as investing money for a richer retirement. One of the best ways to invest...
Let's face it: Demotions are never easy, and sometimes they come as a big surprise. But believe it or not, there are ways to tell if a demotion is right around the corner. A demotion might feel like a stumble, but it's not necessarily the end of the road. The key is spotting the signs...
Top performers don't perform well by accident. Instead, they've adopted a set of habits that consistently set them apart from everyone else. Those individuals who consistently deliver exceptional results and maintain a high level of productivity share certain habits that contribute significantly to their success. These habits are not innate talents but rather learned behaviors...
Just because you're retired doesn't mean you have to sit in your rocking chair yelling at the neighbor kids to get off your lawn (remember Clint Eastwood in Gran Torino?). There are plenty of stress-free ways to stay busy and make money in retirement. After all, you quit that stressful career for a reason, right?...
I get it, you want to save money. In general, that's a good thing! But how often do you stop and wonder if you're your tendency to cheap out on certain things is costing you more money in the long run? That's the difference between being cheap and frugal. The distinction between being cheap and...
Yesterday, Hunter Biden, son of U.S. President Joe Biden, was indicted by a federal grand jury on three felony counts related to a firearm he purchased in 2018. The news is yet another dark cloud over the aging president's chances of a second term in 2024. Specifically, the charges against Hunter Biden include: Making false...
In personal finance, we consistently hear that buying used cars is the better choice due to depreciation. While that's true in some cases, always buying used cars doesn't tell the whole story, and you might be surprised at why buying a new car is a better deal. Both options have their merits, but there are...
I'd love to try my hand at many professions, but being a stockbroker isn't one of them. The world of finance has always held a certain allure, with the promise of lucrative incomes and the adrenaline rush of high-stakes trading. One of the most popular career paths in this field is that of a stockbroker....
Side hustles are a great way to make extra money in our free time. Whether it's to pay off debt, save for a vacation, or have more financial freedom, side hustles have become an increasingly popular means of achieving these goals. In fact, 53% of Gen Zers have a side hustle to earn extra money....
75,000 unionized healthcare workers across five states, including California, Colorado, Oregon, Virginia, and Washington D.C., are set to strike as their work contract expires Saturday. A healthcare strike could be devastating. The workers, who are members of the Coalition of Kaiser Permanente Unions, demand better pay and benefits and increased staffing levels. “While a strike...
Want to be a better negotiator? So much of life involves negotiating. Remember, negotiations aren't just about business deals, lawsuits, and high-priced contracts. We negotiate all the time, like with our friends. Sometimes, even your spouse and kids! Negotiation is an essential skill in both personal and professional life. Whether you're haggling over the price...
As a business owner, I'm a huge fan of entrepreneurship. However, owning your own business won't be right for everyone. It's hard work. And sometimes, the only person you have to rely on is you. Of course, this can either be good or bad! Entrepreneurship is overly romanticized. Many people dream of being their own...
The world of work is constantly changing, and new money-making career fields are always emerging. Some careers are more in demand than others and are expected to grow faster in the coming years. With the world increasingly reliant on cutting-edge innovations, technology-driven careers such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and data science are expected to surge...
In today's economy, having a high-paying career is more important than ever. With the rising cost of living, making ends meet on a low salary can be difficult. While the demand for certain professions fluctuates over time, some fields consistently offer high-paying positions and are expected to remain in demand for years to come. Top...
Talk about a payday! After spending weeks climbing without a winner, the Powerball jackpot has ballooned to $1.55 billion for tonight's drawing. Let's face it: Chances are you won't win. But someone does eventually win, don't they? What if that person is you? Winning the lottery sounds nice, but it also has a way of...
Believe it or not, your credit limit is within your control. Well, sort of. Credit card companies will initially set your credit limit based on several factors, including your credit score and the risk of you not paying your bills. However, you can increase your credit limit without waiting for your credit card company to...
Owning a home is the American Dream. But if you're not careful, it can quickly become an American Nightmare. While homeownership is great for some people, it won't be right for everyone. Owning a home may be a burden rather than a blessing for some individuals. If you're contemplating the prospect of homeownership, evaluating your...
One of the hottest debates in personal finance is whether or not to invest your emergency fund. Pros and cons exist on both sides, but the right answer is no, you shouldn't invest your emergency fund. The only exception to that rule is if you have an extremely high risk tolerance. Here's why you should...
Sometimes, stuff just happens. The boomerang generation, a term used to describe young adults who move back home with their parents after living independently, has become a common phenomenon in today's society. There are various reasons why young adults decide to return to the nest, including financial struggles, career transitions, and even a global pandemic...
For the first time in recorded history, California's population is dropping. In fact, the Golden State has lost nearly 1,000,000 people since 2020 alone. This mass migration is reshaping the region's demographics and driving up real estate costs in neighboring states, causing a ripple effect on Western housing markets. This article will explore how California's...
Want to make a little extra money (and don't mind a random stranger living in your home)? Renting out a spare room can be a smart financial move, whether you're a homeowner looking to make some extra income or a renter seeking a reliable roommate to help cover expenses. With rising housing costs and economic...
The richest man in the world is less rich today after Telsa stock fell almost 9% in the third quarter. A 9% drop in Tesla stock amounts to $24 billion of Musk's net worth gone. Musk owns 21% of Tesla, which makes up well over half of his wealth. The electric auto-maker posted a nearly...
Technology has given investors a whole new world of investment opportunities. Diverse portfolios should always contain a mix of investments to reduce risk to the investor. Should geeks diversify into crypto? For geeks and tech-savvy individuals, the decision between crypto and traditional investments can be daunting. In this article, I will unravel the complexities of...
Unless you've lived under a rock, you've probably heard the term NFT. But you might not clearly understand what they are, how they work, and if they are a worthwhile investment. The fact is that NFTs are a little difficult to understand. Let's explore the world of NFTs, understand their unique qualities, and analyze their...
A quick internet search will reveal a plethora of articles about how to save money. That doesn't mean that advice will actually work. In fact, some may actually end up costing you more in the long run or provide minimal savings that hardly make a dent in your financial goals, sometimes without you knowing it....
Investing isn't just about stocks, bonds, and real estate. Comic books can be great investment opportunities, but only if you know what to look for. Comic books have come a long way from being simple forms of entertainment to becoming a legitimate and lucrative investment opportunity. If you're a fan of the colorful world of...
It's great being self employed, isn't it? You work for yourself. Maybe you get to set your own hours. But there's one major drawback: Health insurance. Unlike traditional employees, self-employed individuals don't have the luxury of employer-provided health insurance plans. It's easy when you work for an employer. If you work for yourself, the process...
If you think that fast food is getting expensive, you're right. A “value meal” at many fast food restaurants costs almost as much as a regular meal at a sit-down restaurant. In fact, McDonald's was criticized recently for charging up to $18 for a Big Mac. That's a high price for an unhealthy meal. Inflation,...
Freelancing has gained immense popularity in recent years, allowing individuals to take control of their careers, work on projects they are passionate about, and enjoy a flexible work schedule and location. If you're considering the leap into freelancing and starting your own freelance business, this guide will walk you through the six key steps to...
COVID-19 is a viral respiratory illness that can cause many symptoms, from mild to severe. In some cases, people may experience symptoms that last for weeks or even months after recovering from the initial infection. This is known as long COVID. Though COVID isn't nearly as rampant as it used to be, it's still around....
Cryptocurrency, once a niche interest for tech enthusiasts, has evolved into a complex financial ecosystem that even the most seasoned geeks might find challenging to navigate. As digital assets continue to gain popularity, understanding the nuances of the crypto world is essential for geeks looking to leverage these technologies to build wealth. To start, it's...
A government shutdown refers to a situation in which the functioning of a government, typically at the federal level, is disrupted due to a lack of approved funding for its operations. This occurs when the government's spending authority expires, usually, because Congress has not passed a budget or a continuing resolution to fund government agencies...
Spend a few minutes reading about personal finance, and you're bound to understand the importance of keeping an emergency fund. It can literally be the difference between life and death, or at least life and debt. Read further and discover a hotly-contested debate: should you invest your emergency fund or keep it safely stored in...
As a self-employed entrepreneur, I know how difficult it can be to navigate the maze of health insurance working for yourself. It can seem confusing. Getting health insurance when self-employed can be challenging, but it's crucial for safeguarding your health and financial stability. This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the process, ensuring you find...
Many of us are looking for ways to make more money. However, getting a raise at work can be challenging, not to mention intimidating. If you're in this situation, don't worry. Other ways to increase your income without needing a higher salary include side jobs, selling things you no longer need, or using skills you...
We live in a world where consumerism is rampant, and social media constantly bombards us with images of luxury and success. As a result, it is easy to fall into the trap of lifestyle creep. This phenomenon, where your spending increases as your income grows, can subtly derail your long-term financial goals and dreams. Understanding...
For most of us, our home mortgage is our most significant debt. Recent home buyers know firsthand how fast mortgages add up when buying a new home. For instance, if you live in California, the average homeowner has more than $400,000 left on their home mortgage. That’s a lot of dough, and the mortgage interest...
As we enter 2024, the 5G technology landscape is rapidly transforming industries from telecommunications to IoT (Internet of Things). This evolution presents a lucrative opportunity for investors. Let's talk about the top seven promising 5G stocks in 2024. But first, what is 5G? What Is 5G Technology? 5G technology, short for fifth-generation wireless technology, represents...
Geek culture, once a niche and often overlooked community, has blossomed into a diverse and vibrant spectrum of geek subcultures. Each of these communities, defined by unique passions and activities, offers a fascinating glimpse into the world of dedicated enthusiasts. From the colorful world of cosplay to the cerebral gatherings of board game aficionados, these...
I retired at 35 after working a 14-year career in information technology. In other words, I FIRE'd. Hang around the personal finance community long enough, and you'll hear terms like LeanFIRE, FatFIRE, CoastFIRE, and BaristaFIRE. LeanFIRE and FatFIRE are more traditional types of early retirement, but CoastFIRE and BaristaFIRE are hybrid approaches, allowing more spending...
The concept of financial independence and retiring early (FIRE) has been gaining momentum in recent years, even amid the economic turmoil that's ravaged the world over the last couple of years. One intriguing variation of this movement is BaristaFIRE, which blends the desire for early retirement with the practicality of part-time work. It means you...
Finding the right place to retire can be difficult, especially as inflation continues to eat away at the spending power of our money. It’s making a lot of places downright unaffordable. Though the cost of living is getting high across the nation, many places still offer the perfect mix of low expenses and city amenities....
Starting a business while maintaining a full-time job can be challenging yet rewarding. It requires careful planning, time management, and a lot of dedication. If you've ever tried to start a business with a 9 to 5 job, you know just how difficult it can be. However, balancing both with the right approach and successfully...
Getting rich is a dream for many people. But how can you make this dream come true? A good way is by studying in the right field. There are special study programs that can help you earn a lot of money in the future. These programs teach you skills that are in high demand. This...
Emotional intelligence, often called EQ, plays a critical role in shaping our ability to build wealth, sometimes even more than our intellectual capabilities or IQ. While IQ measures our understanding and reasoning abilities, EQ is all about how well we understand our own emotions and the feelings of others. This understanding is key in navigating...
You're not alone if you've ever felt stuck with a low credit limit. A lot of people wish they had a higher limit. Many people face this challenge, but there's good news: you can ask your credit card company for an increase. This might seem daunting, but with the right approach, it's quite achievable. You...
