This week, my allergies are suffering the after effects of too much spring cleaning. Inspired by the sunshine and warmer weather, I was possessed with a cleaning energy I hadn’t experienced since last year. The closet was the first to go. Then the porch, the kitchen, the carpet and finally the bathroom.
The whole house felt so much lighter, my mood was lifted, and I felt great.
With the house clean, I started to wonder about the other areas in my life that could use a good spring cleaning.
That’s when it hit me. When was the last time I scrubbed my finances?
Maybe because I work with so many financial professionals, I already had a good grip on the big stuff – taxes, budget, personal financial statements, electronic billing… and last year I tackled shredding old papers and setting up a filing system which is still in play, so what’s next?
In our coaching and workshops, we talk about the maintenance phase of change. This is when you’re doing what you actively set out to do. You are achieving your goal.
Maintenance is a tough place because it is the place between a healthy habit for life and a box that’s been checked and forgotten.
I didn’t want to fall into the maintenance trap, so I found others ways to tidy up:
- I went over all my statements with a fine-tooth comb.
- I appealed fees and investigated charges.
- I reviewed all subscriptions and auto-payments and adjusted where necessary.
- I updated my passwords and reviewed my estate documents.
What do you do to Spring Clean your finances? How do you stay on top of the healthy habits you established for yourself? How has that worked for you? We love hearing your stories. Please share here or send a note.
- I just love this checklist for Spring Cleaning your house
- Need some video inspiration? Check out Marie Kondo on Netflix.
Warmly,
Joselyn