Tag: husband

Transform Your Finances: The Benefits of a Financial Needs Analysis

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Money and Mental Health: Why a Financial Needs Analysis is a Game Changer

Let’s be honest – money isn’t just about paying the bills. It’s about peace of mind. And if you’ve ever stayed up at night worrying about whether you’re saving enough, paying off debt fast enough, or protecting your family in case something unexpected happens, you know how quickly finances can affect your mental health.

For many of us, money stress is right up there with juggling work, kids, and daily life. It’s one of those “silent strains” that shows up as anxiety, tension in relationships, or even a feeling of being stuck. On the flip side, when you feel financially secure, everything else feels just a little lighter – your shoulders drop, you breathe easier, and you can actually think about the future with excitement instead of dread.

Why It’s About More Than Budgeting

Now, don’t get me wrong – budgeting is important. But real financial confidence goes way beyond simply tracking expenses. You need a clear picture of your entire financial life: what’s working, what needs attention, and how to make your money start working for you.

That’s where a Financial Needs Analysis (FNA) comes in. Think of it like a wellness check-up for your finances. It’s not about judgment or telling you to skip your morning coffee; it’s about looking at your financial health as a whole.

Here’s what an FNA usually covers:

  • Cash Flow Review – Where your money comes in, and where it sneaks out.
  • Debt Strategy – Finding the smartest way to tackle debt without sacrificing your sanity.
  • Protection Planning – Do you have the right insurance in place to protect your family if life throws you a curveball?
  • Savings & Investments – How to start growing your money, even if it’s just a little at a time.
  • Retirement Planning – Making sure the future version of you is taken care of.

Why Everyone Needs One (Yes, Even You)

You don’t need to be rolling in cash to benefit from a financial needs analysis. In fact, the earlier and more often you do it, the stronger and more confident you’ll feel about your money.

Here’s what it can give you:

  • Less Stress: Clarity brings calm. Knowing where you stand is half the battle.
  • Protection: Safeguard what you already have — your income, your home, your family’s future.
  • A Growth Plan: Your money should be working just as hard as you are. An FNA shows you how.
  • A Roadmap: Instead of reacting to money problems, you’ll be following a plan that fits your goals and lifestyle.

From Surviving to Thriving

When you tackle your finances with a full-picture plan, you’re not just taking care of dollars and cents — you’re taking care of your mental health and your family’s future. The relief you’ll feel knowing you’re on the right path is priceless.

So here’s the truth: whether you have a little money, a lot, or you’re somewhere in between, a Financial Needs Analysis is for you. It’s not just about budgeting. It’s about protecting what matters, preparing for the unexpected, and putting your money to work so it supports the life you’ve always wanted.

Because at the end of the day, financial peace of mind isn’t just about money — it’s about living with confidence and freedom.

✨ Takeaway: Don’t wait until stress takes over. Get your financial check-up. Your bank account (and your mental health) will thank you.

Simplify Your Financial Journey with a Free Needs Analysis

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

I have been feeling pretty good today and decided to be extra and do another blog post. It will clue you in on what I have been working on besides my physical and mental health. Trust me, with a chronic health condition, you start to worry about finances, looking at insurance options, staring down the barrel of “retirement age” and what all of that means and definitely “what if the worst happens?” So keep reading and I will give you some insight.

Getting Your Finances on Track — One Step at a Time

When it comes to money, most of us aren’t looking for a sales pitch—we’re looking for clarity. Whether you’re drowning in bills or sitting on some savings and wondering if it’s really working for you, the idea of sitting down for a financial review might sound overwhelming. But here’s the truth: no matter where you are on your financial journey, a free Financial Needs Analysis (FNA) can be a game-changer.

I work with families and individuals every day who are trying to make sense of it all—budgeting, paying down debt, saving for the future, and protecting what matters most. As a licensed Primerica representative, my job isn’t to sell you something you don’t need. It’s to help you get your financial house in order, starting with the basics.

Why a Financial Needs Analysis?

Think of the FNA as a roadmap. It takes a full view of your current financial situation—income, expenses, debt, insurance, savings—and helps identify areas where you can improve. Even if you’re not sold on the idea of buying term life insurance and investing the rest (a strategy we believe in because of its flexibility and potential for growth), this analysis still provides real, actionable insight into your finances.

Here’s what we’ll cover together:

  • Budgeting: Let’s find out where your money is going and how to make it go further.
  • Debt payoff strategies: Whether it’s credit cards, student loans, or other debt, I can show you how to develop a plan to eliminate it faster.
  • Emergency savings: We’ll talk about realistic ways to build your safety net.
  • Protection: If something unexpected happens—like a death or illness—you need to be sure your family is financially secure. I can help you assess your life insurance needs and see what’s already in place.
  • Estate planning basics: It’s not just for the wealthy. Everyone should have a plan for their family and their legacy.
  • Home and auto coverage: I have access to partners that can help you review and potentially improve your existing coverage.
  • Retirement and investment review: Already saving for the future? Let’s make sure that money is working for you, not just sitting in an underperforming account.

No Pressure. Just a Path Forward.

Let’s be honest—finances can be intimidating. But with the right guidance and tools, it becomes manageable. And more importantly, it becomes empowering. The goal isn’t to push a product—it’s to partner with you to make informed decisions about your money, with clarity and confidence.

So whether you feel completely stuck or you think you’ve already got everything figured out, take advantage of the free Financial Needs Analysis. You might be surprised at what we uncover and how simple some solutions can be.

Let’s connect. Partner with me and let’s take that first step toward financial peace of mind- TOGETHER.

Love and light y’all!

It’s Okay to Be Selfish with Your Time—In Fact, You *Should* Be

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Time is the one resource we can never get back. We can earn more money. We can rebuild relationships. But once a moment passes, it’s gone forever. That’s why being *intentional*—and sometimes unapologetically selfish—with your time is not just okay, it’s essential.We live in a world that glorifies being busy. We’re constantly asked to do more, give more, be more. But constantly pouring into others without refilling yourself is a recipe for burnout, resentment, and even health issues. Here’s the truth: you can’t pour from an empty cup.

It’s okay to say no to that fundraiser. It’s okay to skip the party, even if everyone else is going. It’s okay to let a friend know, “Hey, I love you, but my social battery is low right now. I need to rest.” This isn’t being selfish in the negative sense—it’s *self-preservation*. Protecting your peace, your energy, and your time is an act of self-respect. Every commitment you make—every “yes”—costs you something. Time, energy, money, mental bandwidth. And those things are finite.When you protect your time, you’re actually being honest about your priorities. And sometimes, those priorities need to be **you**: your health, your mental wellbeing, your finances, your peace. That’s not only acceptable—it’s *wise*.Because when you’re well-rested, grounded, and financially stable, you’re *better* for everyone around you. You’re a better friend, parent, partner, coworker, neighbor. Boundaries aren’t walls; they’re filters. They help you protect what matters most.

So let this be your permission slip:

Say no.

Stay home.

Log off.

Take the nap.

Prioritize the workout.

Decline the call.

Your time is precious. Treat it like it is. You deserve to be the main character in your own life—not just a supporting role in everyone else’s.–love and light y’all

Redefining Success: Finding Peace in Life’s Surprises

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

Facing Life’s Uncertainties: Embracing the Next Chapter

At some point in our lives, we all find ourselves in that moment of reflection—the one where we look around and say, “This isn’t what I expected my life to be.” It doesn’t matter what age you are; this feeling can creep up on anyone. Whether you’re 25, 35, 45, or even nearing 60 or 65, you might find yourself questioning the trajectory of your life. Perhaps you’re not where you thought you would be. Maybe your dreams didn’t quite unfold the way you envisioned, or unexpected changes like a career shift, a loss, or a new phase of life are making you ask, “What’s next?”

Life is a journey full of unexpected twists and turns, and as we grow older, we often find ourselves facing moments of doubt and uncertainty. These feelings of questioning and reflection are commonly referred to as an “existential crisis,” and they can come at any age. Whether it’s a mid-life crisis, a career change, the loss of a loved one, or just an overwhelming sense that things aren’t where they should be, this feeling is universal. However, that doesn’t mean it has to be a negative or immobilizing experience. In fact, it can be a powerful opportunity for growth and reinvention.

So, what can you do when you feel like life hasn’t gone as expected? How can you navigate these moments of doubt and find peace and purpose moving forward?

1. Acknowledge Your Feelings

First and foremost, it’s essential to acknowledge that feeling uncertain or disillusioned is normal. There’s no shame in having moments of doubt. If anything, it shows that you are human. These moments are often accompanied by frustration, regret, or even sadness—but these emotions are valid, and you don’t need to suppress them. Allowing yourself to feel them without judgment is the first step to moving forward.

Take time to process these emotions, whether it’s through journaling, talking with a trusted friend, or simply sitting with your thoughts. Reflect on what led you to this point and recognize that it’s okay to have expectations that evolve as life changes.

2. Reframe Your Perspective

One of the most important things you can do when facing an existential crisis is to reframe your perspective. Instead of seeing this period of uncertainty as a failure or missed opportunity, consider it as an invitation to reevaluate your goals, dreams, and values.

The truth is, life rarely unfolds in a straight line. It’s often full of detours, challenges, and moments where we stray from the original path. But these detours can offer new perspectives and experiences that are equally as valuable—if not more so—than the original plan. Look at your life as a work in progress, not a finished product. Each stage and each change has brought you to where you are, and this is part of the adventure.

3. Redefine Success

We often define success based on societal standards: a certain career, financial security, family life, or status. But as you get older, you begin to realize that success is a deeply personal experience. What once seemed like the perfect blueprint for happiness may no longer hold the same allure. This is your opportunity to redefine what success means for you.

Ask yourself: What truly matters to me? Is it happiness? Freedom? Creativity? Fulfillment? Health? Relationships? Redefining success based on your own values rather than external expectations will bring you greater satisfaction and peace of mind as you move forward.

4. Embrace Change and Let Go of the Past

The fear of change often holds us back from taking the necessary steps to move forward. We can get so attached to our past choices, relationships, and circumstances that we resist change, even when it’s for the better. However, change is inevitable, and sometimes it’s necessary for growth.

If you’re stuck in a place of regret or resentment, it’s important to work through these feelings and find a way to let go. Holding on to the past only keeps you anchored in a time that no longer serves you. Forgive yourself for the things you didn’t know or the decisions you wish you could take back. Life is about learning and evolving, and each decision, whether good or bad, has contributed to who you are today.

5. Take Small Steps Toward a New Beginning

When facing an existential crisis, it can feel overwhelming to think about making big changes all at once. Instead of focusing on the end goal, take small steps toward what’s next. Start with something simple, whether it’s taking up a new hobby, learning a new skill, or revisiting an old passion that brought you joy.

You don’t have to make dramatic life-altering decisions overnight. Change is often most sustainable when it’s gradual and intentional. These small steps will help you rediscover what excites and motivates you. Over time, they’ll lead to a greater sense of fulfillment and confidence.

6. Seek Support

You don’t have to go through this alone. Seek out support from friends, family, or a therapist who can help you navigate these difficult emotions. Sometimes, just talking about what you’re feeling can provide clarity and a fresh perspective. If you’re facing significant life changes, such as retirement or loss, talking with others who are going through similar experiences can be incredibly comforting and reassuring.

Remember that no matter how isolated you may feel, you are not alone. Many people have faced moments of uncertainty and emerged stronger, wiser, and more at peace with who they are. Having a support system is key to maintaining your mental and emotional well-being.

7. Embrace the Unknown

One of the most liberating things you can do when faced with an existential crisis is to embrace the unknown. Life is unpredictable, and while we may want to have everything mapped out, the beauty of life often lies in its uncertainty. It’s okay not to have all the answers.

By embracing uncertainty, you open yourself up to new possibilities and opportunities. You might not know exactly what the future holds, but that’s where the adventure lies. By remaining open to change, you allow space for creativity, growth, and the unexpected joys that life can bring.

8. Focus on What You Can Control

During times of uncertainty, it’s easy to become overwhelmed by the things outside of your control. However, focusing on what you can control—your mindset, your actions, and your attitude—can empower you to take charge of your future. When life feels chaotic, focusing on small, actionable steps can provide a sense of stability and purpose.

Take care of your mental and physical health, nurture your relationships, and pursue goals that are meaningful to you. The more you focus on the areas where you have agency, the more empowered you’ll feel to navigate whatever life throws your way.

Conclusion: Live and Light

Life will never unfold exactly as we expect it, and that’s okay. What matters most is how we respond to the curveballs life throws at us. If you find yourself feeling stuck or questioning where you are in life, remember that it’s not the end of the road—it’s the beginning of something new.

Take a deep breath, acknowledge your feelings, and know that the next chapter is yours to write. Embrace change, redefine your success, seek support, and take small steps toward the future you desire. Life is about growth, reinvention, and embracing whatever comes next.

Sign off with a sense of lightness. You are not alone in this journey, and every step forward—no matter how small—is progress. Keep living, keep evolving, and keep finding the joy in the unexpected.

Finding Calm When Feeling Stuck

by Mothersense, posted in Uncategorized

What can you do when you feel helpless? Maybe your job search is dragging out and you feel like it’s never-ending, maybe your kid is sick and you don’t have answers to why, maybe things are rough in a friendship, family, or marriage and you have done every possible thing you know to do….what can you do next? What will be helpful?

It can be hard to feel helpless. To have to be still and wait for answers or just waiting at all can take so much energy. When things feel out of your control, and you’ve already tried everything you can think of, it’s easy to feel stuck, like there’s no next step. But there are ways to move forward, even if they’re small steps.

I do want to say I think it’s key to acknowledge that it’s okay to not have all the answers or to feel like you’ve reached a limit. Feeling helpless is a very human experience, and being kind to yourself during that time is huge. When you’re in a tough spot, here are some things that might help:

  1. Take a Break and Breathe: Sometimes, when we’re so deep in the weeds of a difficult situation, we forget to step back and take a breather. It doesn’t mean ignoring the issue, but giving yourself a moment of mental clarity to recharge. Simple practices like deep breathing, meditation, or even taking a walk can reset your nervous system and give you a fresh perspective.
  2. Talk to Someone You Trust: Whether it’s a friend, family member, or a therapist, sharing how you’re feeling can be a huge relief. Sometimes just verbalizing the weight of everything you’re carrying can make it feel lighter. You don’t need someone to have all the answers – you just need someone who will listen. And sometimes maybe you just talk to yourself. Yup. I said it, talk to yourself, sometimes saying things out loud helps you to feel better about the in between, the waiting, the PAUSE if you will. 
  3. Let Go of What’s Beyond Your Control: It’s difficult, but part of feeling helpless comes from trying to control everything. If you’ve done everything you can and you’re still not seeing results, sometimes the best thing you can do is surrender a bit. Trust that things will work out in their own time. It’s not giving up – it’s giving yourself permission to stop shouldering the weight of things you can’t fix right now.
  4. Focus on Small Wins: If the big picture feels overwhelming, try to break things down into smaller, more manageable pieces. Is there one small action you can take today to improve your situation, even just a little? Maybe that’s applying for one more job, researching new treatment options for your child, or reaching out to a friend to have a real conversation about what’s going on.
  5. Seek New Resources or Perspectives: Sometimes we can feel stuck because we’re too close to a problem, or we’ve exhausted the usual ways of looking at it. Maybe it’s time to seek out a new perspective – whether that’s reading a book on personal growth, talking to a mentor, or exploring new treatment options or support groups for your situation.
  6. Practice Patience and Self-Compassion: Growth or healing isn’t always linear. Sometimes things get worse before they get better, and that’s hard to deal with when you’re in the middle of it. Being gentle with yourself during these moments and remembering that things won’t always feel like this can help maintain hope.