Blog

February 23, 2018

5 Steps on How to Set Up Your Personal Filing System

Do you dread filing your bills, bank statements, and any other paperwork? I do, and I have yet to meet anyone who enjoys it. However, it is an important part of having a stress-free financial life and is one of ...

February 15, 2018

Should I Give My Child an Allowance?

The subject of allowance comes up often when I am discussing family budgeting. Parents tend to be against giving their child an allowance. It can be due to the principle of giving an allowance. But mostly it’s a variety of ...

February 7, 2018

Understanding Wants vs Needs

One of the first steps to becoming more financially responsible is learning self-control in your spending. Overspending is a common problem because people make spur of the moment purchases without actually considering whether it fits into their budget. Figuring out ...

January 26, 2018

Should I Place a Credit Freeze on My Account?

What is a Credit Freeze? After last year’s Equifax security breach, consumers were encouraged to place a credit freeze on their accounts. It’s because this is the most effective way to prevent any new credit from being opened in your ...

January 23, 2018

5 Financial Tips to Help You Save Money

Staying on top of your money can be hard. Personal finance is not a subject that is taught in most high schools and colleges. It is no surprise that many people struggle with how to properly manage their money when ...

January 15, 2018

4 Money-Saving Strategies for Your Winter Vacation

Planning and Budgeting a Winter Vacation The winter months are a great time for getaways. With everyone trying to escape the cold, it can be difficult and costly to plan your vacation. However, there are ways to avoid breaking the ...

January 8, 2018

4 Bad Spending Habits and How to Break Them

The problem with habits is that they come naturally to us and can be hard to break unless we really make an effort. Sometimes we do things without even thinking, to our own detriment. If you feel like you are ...

December 31, 2017

Cash Flow and Take Home Pay

It Matters How Often You Are Paid In order to properly budget your money, you must understand exactly how much and how frequently you are paid. Misunderstanding the ebb and flow of money coming and going out of your bank ...

December 22, 2017

4 Financial & Budgeting Tools to Help Manage Your Money

Budget trackers are a very helpful way to stay on top of your expenses and help you get into a habit of being wise with your spending. However, aside from the basic budget tracker programs and applications, there are other ...

December 14, 2017

I Lent 20 Dollars

I Lent $20 to a Stranger It is not the first time I have done this. Most likely won’t be the last time either. One reason is that $20 would never break my budget. My First Opportunity to Lend ...

December 8, 2017

Is Financial Coaching Right for You?

Financial coaching and financial planning sound like they might be the same, but they are actually very different. This post will provide a solid breakdown of what a financial coach does and why you would hire one. Financial Coaching vs. ...

November 30, 2017

Giving Experiences, Not Things, for the Holidays

Two Alternative Ideas for Gift Giving Make holiday gift giving more enjoyable for yourself and for those on your list this holiday season. It can be challenging to come up with something that will make the recipient happy. We also ...

November 22, 2017

How to Talk to Your Kids About Money

For many people, talking to their kids about money is a taboo subject. However, it’s never too early to teach your children the basics. You want your kids to enjoy being kids. But teaching them the value of money early ...

November 8, 2017

What is a Certified Management Accountant?

A Certified Management Accountant (CMA) is a professional with a specialized certification for accounting. People who have this certification have demonstrated that they have proficiency in strategic management and financial accounting on a level above your typical accountant. This certification ...

October 30, 2017

Use Your Vacations Days Without Hurting Your Wallet

It’s almost the end of the year. Have you taken your vacation days that you are due? According to U.S. Travel Association, American workers lost 662 million vacation days in 2016. This translates to an estimated $70 billion in lost ...

October 23, 2017

Debt Counseling FAQ

When you’re drowning in debt and can’t see a way out, looking into debt counseling might be your best option. Debt is a common problem for Americans and you are not alone. Most people haven’t had any experience with debt ...

October 16, 2017

Money Saving Tips for Fall Travelling

Fall is a favorite time of year for many people. The nice weather and beautiful scenery make it an ideal season for outdoor activities. Fall also provides some great opportunities for saving on travelling. There are many ways to fully ...

October 2, 2017

Buying Time, Not Things, will Improve your Mood

Money may not buy happiness. However, it can buy us time which can lead to more happiness. That is according to a recent Wall Street Journal article based upon several studies. The article caught my eye, because I have been ...

September 22, 2017

Beware of Debt Consolidation Companies

A common question I am asked is what’s the difference between credit counseling and debt consolidation. These are entirely different concepts. Through credit counseling, you will learn how to solve your debt problems. You will also learn how to change ...

September 15, 2017

Is Leasing or Buying a Car Better for My Credit?

Is it Better to Lease or Buy a Car? How Will it Impact my Credit Score? This seems to be an ongoing debate and a common discussion whenever someone finds out I am a professional money coach and budget advisor. ...

August 30, 2017

Misuse of Interest Free Financing

What does a replacement HVAC system and $400 luxury sheets have in common? Other than being able to use your luxury sheets when your heat or air-conditioning is working properly? You can make both of these purchases by receiving an ...

August 23, 2017

The Benefits of Using a Budget Tracker

For many individuals, personal budgeting can be a financial hurdle. However, money management skills are something that can be learned with time and dedication. Working with a professional money coach such as The Alexandrite Group can help with your ...

August 8, 2017

Common Misconceptions about Credit Counseling

Credit card debt can be debilitating and lead to overwhelming amounts of stress. Many people have preconceived notions about credit counseling and whether it can actually help them. Credit counseling helps many people tackle their credit card debt and ...

July 7, 2017