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Habits for financial wellbeing

How to feel in control of your everyday finances

Have you ever felt overwhelmed by your financial situation? If so, you are not alone. According to an OECD/INFE International survey of adult financial literacy1, more than a third of those questioned (34%) reported that their income did not always cover their living expenses.

What is financial wellbeing?2

Financial wellbeing is about feeling secure and in control of your day-to-day finances. It’s having enough money to pay your bills, with a plan to deal with unexpected costs. It’s about feeling confident making plans for your financial future that are in line with the goals that you set.

Where to start?

  1. Get talking
    Many people find it very difficult to talk candidly and openly about money with their family or friends. Money and finances are a common source of stress. Talking about money with a trusted friend or family member is good for you, and may help you to manage your stress. It’s good for your mental health and your relationships. It will also help you to plan your financial future more effectively.
  2. Make a plan
    Getting your finances in shape, or at least having a plan in place, can be a weight off your shoulders. In fact, research shows that financial wellbeing can have a positive effect on both physical and mental health.
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Financial wellbeing

1 OECD (2016), “OECD/INFE International Survey of Adult Financial Literacy Competencies”, OECD, Paris.

 

If you ever feel overwhelmed by your financial situation, you’re not alone. In fact, nearly half of all Americans live paycheck to paycheck - struggling to pay their bills or save for the future.

 

2 Financial wellbeing is one piece in the overall spectrum of wellness. When one piece of the spectrum is jeopardized, you may feel it in other areas. In fact, poor financial wellbeing has knock-on effects for our mental health, physical health and our relationships. On the other hand, people who enjoy good financial wellbeing tend to be happier, more confident and more productive at work.