Why I started Future First Coaching
When I was a teenager, I made a promise to myself that I would be independent and never rely on someone, especially a spouse, to live comfortable and securely. This came after my mom told me about a coworker that was trapped in an unsafe marriage because she did not have the financial means to leave by herself, much less with her children. This story has stuck in my head for nearly 20 years and was a huge driver for me to earn my own money.
I was fortunate enough to get hired by IBM after graduating from the University of Oklahoma - Boomer Sooner! - in 2013, which moved me to Austin, TX. I worked hard and played hard throughout my 20s, but also prioritized paying off my student loans, contributing to a 401k, and saving as much cash as I could. It wasn’t until I was 27 that I started thinking I should “get my finances in order”. I had no idea what I meant by that and I ignored that item on my goals list for two years before actually doing something about it.
I was 29 when my best friend suggested I open a high yield savings account…which sounded like a complicated account that I didn’t want to bother with. Thankfully, she patiently explained it to me and I decided to open one - that was my first big money move. That seemingly small moment ignited a curiosity in me and I wanted to learn what else I was missing with money. I was making good money, I knew I didn’t want to spend it all away, but had no idea what else to do with it. So, I started educating myself!
I started by buying 3 personal finance books and joined a online course that helped women understand wealth building. This was a transformational time in my life because my desire to learn continued to grow and I found myself bringing up money in more conversations with my friends and family. I wanted to share what I was learning and how it could change their lives, and I felt so much joy when they took steps to start their financial journey.
By taking the time to educate myself and invest in my future self, I finally did “get my finances in order”, and defined what that meant for me…
I started measuring my net worth, spending habits, and investing rates over time
I doubled my investment contributions to retirement, HSA, and brokerage accounts
I simplified my accounts by investing in target date funds and index funds
I used the cash I had on hand to purchase my first home by myself
I learned about house hacking and am using my home as a STR on Airbnb (You’re looking at a Super Host!)
I routinely create and revisit progress on financial goals that align with my values
I found an overwhelming sense of empowerment in knowing that I am in charge of building wealth for my future self
I have proven to myself that anyone can learn how to invest their money and build wealth on their own. Although it takes time to learn the concepts and the courage to change your behavior, but this is a skill that absolutely can be learned.
This is why I started Future First Coaching. I want to help you realize that you are fully capable of learning how to manage your money and invest for your future self. I want to help you prioritize the needs and wants of your future self instead of solely focusing on the instant gratification of today.
I can nerd out on money mindsets, personal finance, and spreadsheets all day, but the best feeling in the world is to see the newly found confidence of a woman with her wealth, just as I was able to see for myself and my clients.
If you’re interested in learning more about my approach or what to expect with coaching, I highly encourage you to book time with me to discuss! I would absolutely love to work with you! Click the button below to schedule a free 30 minute conversation.
