Remaining A Part during this time Apart:
Our thoughts on finding unity and stability in times of confusion
We hope that you and your family are safe and well. Please know that we are thinking of you.
Even though this is a time of great uncertainty, we take comfort in the ordinary and familiar: spring arrives with sunshine and flowers, birthdays and anniversaries are celebrated with creativity and heart, and parents are welcoming new babies into the world. We find joy in these everyday miracles.
And yet uncertainty often creates fear. Between the health crisis, the financial markets, and the resulting stress in our homes and communities, it can feel helpless. The world is still spinning. We can help you navigate these next steps with confidence. Please know that we are here for you.
Cashflow Basics/ Income and Expenses
Even though daily life is proceeding at a slower pace, we continue to move along. It is not quite business as usual, and yet due dates and bills arrive with regularity. Do you have what you need to cover your expenses? It’s worth taking a hard look. You may be better off than you think you are. (And if not, the sooner you know, the better. Bad news seldom improves over time.)
Ready to figure it out? Let’s go!
Make a list of your expenses and your sources of income. Not in your head, write it down. Or click here to access our cashflow calculator. This single action step empowers you and will give you control over the next step, and the next, and the one after that...
Your expenses will include housing, food, transportation, medical/prescriptions, utilities, insurance (home, health, auto, business), clothing and entertainment. Once you have listed your expenses, you can prioritize and categorize them. Internet access, for example, might have moved higher up on the priority list recently. Some of these expenses are fixed, and some are flexible. Are any negotiable? It might be worth taking the time to make a few phone calls.
Consider all your sources of income: wages, investment income, retirement assets. (Should you consider applying for a loan? We will explore debt/credit in greater detail next week.) Remember, life is a team sport. We can help by providing perspective and guidance. Please do not hesitate to reach out with a phone call or an email.
Taking Care of Yourself: Eating Well
Remember, too, that it is essential to take care of your physical health, particularly during times of anxiety. When we think about our basic human needs, it is important to consider what we are feeding our bodies. Are you eating a balanced diet? Even though the shelves might not be stocked with our favorite items, can we find healthy substitutions? Are there reasonable alternatives? It can be fun to try new recipes, maybe you’ll discover a new family favorite. Whether we prepare our meals at home or choose to support our local restaurants, we take a moment to appreciate that many hands have worked diligently to bring meals to tables. We are grateful.
Another thought. Are there neighbors or relatives to whom you can lend a helping hand by delivering meals or groceries? These acts of thoughtfulness and generosity feed both the volunteer and the recipient.
The Scout Report. Some of you know that our beloved pointer is something of a reluctant eater. This is one of the reasons he doesn’t hunt and instead hangs out in sunny Southern California with a pair of intrepid runners. Still, before he takes his people on a walk, he stops to fuel up. After all, walks are essential to their physical and emotional health, and he is a team player.
On A Personal Note
What we’re reading: Everything she can download on the free library app.
What we're watching: Vintage Dodger highlights. He especially enjoys watching Kirk Gibson's game-winning homerun from the 1988 World Series. Again. And again.
Wherever you are on your financial journey, we can help.
Stratz & Company Financial Services
626-799-5151
