As my Plum & Sage co-founders and I are out in the world, we are slowly letting people outside our immediate circles know what we've been up to for the past year. We have all received tremendous support and encouragement for what we're doing, and we've heard a lot of stories. I personally have been amazed by the number of times women I've known for years suddenly share vulnerabilities that cropped up right around XLV.
For readers who've linked or magically landed on this page without having had the backstory: XLV is the roman numeral 45, and it's hidden right there in the eXtraLoVe we KNOW we need at this critical juncture. Our bodies are changing, our relationships are shifting, and it's scary as shit.
One that comes up again and again as we spread the eXtraLoVe among our larger circle of friends and colleagues is FEAR. Specifically, fear about money. Smart, accomplished women have told me that they are embarrassed about the idea of going to a financial planner because they're worried they should have saved more by now. Paying off student loans in their 20s and 30s, buying homes and managing mortgages in their 30s and 40s, then BOOM we've gotta get those college funds ready! Somewhere in there we lost track of thinking about what our money could be doing - SHOULD be doing - for us. Holistically.
If, as you read this, you're thinking, "But I really don't have enough!" Scarcity mentality is used to market any number of products and services to us at the juncture of XLV, and hormonal changes can make us feel vulnerable to real or perceived threats that may not have triggered any kind of response even 5 years ago. You're not alone in feeling this way, and there's absolutely no reason to be embarrassed about seeking financial advice. In fact, it's a responsible and courageous step to take. It's impossible to predict every financial challenge that will come our way. We all have unique circumstances and journeys, and comparing ourselves to others can be detrimental to our well-being. Remember that financial planning is not about dwelling on past decisions but about charting a path for a more secure and prosperous future.
Regardless of your age, it's never too late to start taking control of your finances. A financial planner can help you assess your current situation, set achievable goals, and create a plan to work towards them. Financial situations vary widely from person to person. What's important is that you are taking steps to improve your financial well-being now. Comparing yourself to others won't change your situation, but proactive steps will.
Meeting with CFP can offer you a sense of clarity and peace of mind. They can help you develop a realistic budget, plan for retirement, and address any concerns you have about your financial future. You'll gain insights into managing your finances better and making more informed decisions moving forward. Their role is not to judge your past choices but to assist you in making the best financial decisions for your future. They are there to support you, not criticize you. Take that first step towards financial security and peace of mind. You have nothing to be embarrassed about.
In fact, we - the Plums - salute you! Be proud of your willingness to take control of your financial future. We wish you all the best on your financial journey, dear Plums. We have every confidence that you will achieve your financial goals and find the peace and security you deserve.
