Mo Money, Mo Problems

Cynitra Oliver, MBA 

Financial Wellness Associate 

​“According to the American Psychological Association (APA) money is the top cause of stress in the United States.  In a 2015 survey, the APA reported that 72% of Americans stressed about money at least some of the time during the month.  The majority of the study participants reported money being a significant source of stress, with 77% feeling considerable anxiety about finances” (verywellmind.com).

 The pandemic has caused more stress than ever before; to many of us all.  Loss of jobs, lay-offs, cut wages, and with all of that, bills still need to be paid.  With so many people out of work, most relied on the government to provide financial assistance to maintain a sense of livelihood.  Stimulus checks, or what some like to call it “Stimy”, was and still is the most talked about topic in most households.  Either you received a stimulus check or you didn’t (sometimes not enough), it caused more problems then anticipated. 

Some people used their “stimulus money” to become an entrepreneur and start up their own business or some simply used it to live.  Having the necessities became a huge part of our lives, only buying what is needed.  Let’s face it, without money we will not be able to live in this economy.  And the government has made sure of that.  My apologies, I am trying not to bring out my inner Angela Davis. 

My good people, know this:  YOU ARE NOT ALONE!!!! Everyone experiences financial hardships at some point in their lives.  But that does not mean you have to stay that way.  There are more resources than I count that have the knowledge and the tools to help guide you out of your financial rut.  Michael Jordan said “Get the fundamentals down, and the level of everything you do will rise”.  That’s right folks, start with the fundamentals. 
 
Create a weekly or monthly budget.  If you have debt, like most of us do, start looking at your current debt and pay the smallest debt first and work on the larger debt later.  Negotiate, negotiate, negotiate!!  Most companies will work with you to set up a payment arrangement, SO CALL THEM!  Nothing ever gets done by waiting for it to work out on its own.  I know it gets tough, but you must remain positive and be real with yourselves. 
 
Let’s not go overboard with using the phrase, “treat yourselves, don’t cheat yourselves”. You have goals to meet.  And you will not reach those goals if you out partying and your rent is due.  Stay positive, stay focused.  You got this!
 
Peace and Love,
 
Cynitra

Cynitra Oliver, MBA

A wife of 10yrs to the love of my life, and proud mother to an 18yr old daughter. A proud member of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., in which I have dedicated my time and financial expertise to the Financial Secretary role for my local chapter. As well as my current role as the chapter Parliamentarian. I have worked in the financial industry for over 17 years and have held several roles; from Licensed Banker to Branch Manager to Women’s Business Advocate, just to name a few. My goal/aspiration is to become financially free from all debt and create wealth for my family and all those I encounter; leaving behind a legacy for my daughter to continue. I love spending time with close friends and family. One quirky fact is: I am very frugal! I have a coupon or reward for just about anything LOL!