Can a financial planner help you achieve your financial goals?

Do you struggle to stick to your budget? Do you always run out of money at the end of the month? If so, believe me, you are not alone. Many people have trouble managing their finances, whether due to overspending, lack of organization, or unexpected expenses.
With the right tools and strategy, it is definitely possible to break the vicious cycle, finally take control of your finances, and start achieving your financial goals. 💪

My personal journey in finance was difficult (to say the least). In my mid-twenties, I found myself in a delicate situation - in addition to an abusive relationship where I suffered (among others) financial abuse, my salary was quite meager. I was constantly stressed about money, debts accumulated, and there seemed to be no end to my troubles. This was a truly dark period in my life, and I didn't know how to escape the cycle of debt and financial instability - it was hard and took several years, but this experience taught me a lot.

The ordeal lasted until I decided to turn over a new leaf. I knew I had to take control of my finances, start making changes, and - most importantly - regain control of my life. I tried various mobile apps for tracking finances, but I had considerable difficulty regularly recording expenses and income (I'm not the biggest fan of various apps, I admit 🥲). In the end, the good-old-way helped me the most: paper and pencil.

I diligently tracked 6 key areas:

1. I wrote down ALL monthly expenses

I wrote down every single, even the smallest, expense: coffees, tickets, lunches... and in the very first month, the result literally knocked me off my feet. I practically threw away a lot of money on various unimportant things, such as buying unhealthy snacks at work when I could have prepared them at home. I didn't give up hobbies or socializing with friends - I cut out things I could do without.

2. I created my monthly budget

A game changer! Every month, I wrote down my expected income and expenses, and at the end of the month, I compared them with the actual situation. This way, it was easier for me to operate within my means. It did happen sometimes that I had to postpone a purchase until the next month, but I must admit that this self-discipline taught me to control impulsive purchases.

3. I learned to prioritize

Sometimes I would often push a bill aside and wait until the next month. Does that sound familiar? 😩 Since I've been much more diligent in paying my obligations, I no longer have problems with overdue bills and various reminders. I take care of everything at the beginning, and that way I can operate with realistic numbers.

4. I planned for the unexpected

I used to dread the thought of the car breaking down or another washing machine failing. Now, every month, I allocate a portion of my income for unexpected expenses - I try to make it around 10%. I definitely breathe a lot easier than I did years ago 😅

5. I set realistic financial goals

Realistic financial goals are extremely important - and the emphasis is definitely on the word "realistic." Too often, we set unattainable goals - and most often, that's precisely why we give up too quickly. By setting achievable goals and tracking your progress, you can stay motivated and on the right track.

6. I regularly reviewed my finances

Every month, I reviewed my expenses, income, and assessed how well I stuck to the plan. This is a really excellent way to adjust your long-term financial plan!

In 2022, the Financial Planner is born as a result

Years ago, I wrote all of this in a plain notebook - because I simply couldn't find a planner on the market that met my needs - so in 2022, I launched one myself 🥳 I created a year-long Financial Planner that includes all the areas I started tracking myself years ago. I placed a huge emphasis on clarity and usability, so the planner is divided into 6 sections: financial plans, savings, debts, expenses, monthly overview, and challenges.

You can read more about the planner here.