There are plenty of ways to build a life that includes financial solidity and healthful habits. Earning a college degree is the central part of this effort for millions of adults. In fact, getting and financing a college degree, two pieces of the same wealth building strategy, are the top priority for high school grads and career changers every year. That’s because a diploma from an accredited institution represents something valuable in the workplace: an in-depth educational background and the readiness to become a productive member of a company team.
Use Scholarships to Offset Educational Expenses
For those who are ready to apply to schools, an essential first step is to explore scholarship opportunities on a platform that helps users uncover potential funding sources. Fortunately, there are websites from which you can do everything in one place, like scanning for scholarships you qualify for and applying for them at the same time. The beauty of scholarships is that you can use the money to cover some or all of your educational expenses.
Start Networking Today
It’s never too early to start building a professional network. Of all the things under your control, networking is perhaps the single most important component of a long-term lifestyle enhancement program. In terms of lifetime earnings, those with extensive networks tend to have less trouble finding jobs, securing raises, and making the most of their education and experience. No matter if you want to boost your income as a fitness influencer or become a nurse, there are distinct steps for creating a network, and the first one is to make a list of everyone you currently know who stands to help you achieve your career goals.
Include teachers, counselors, coworkers, and others on this starter version of the list. Then, brainstorm about ways to find new names. Joining professional organizations or attending Chamber of Commerce functions are two common techniques that people use to expand their professional reach. Other strategies include posting career and resume pages on websites that cater to job seekers and networking enthusiasts.
Double-Check Health Insurance Coverage
Take time to read the relevant parts of your health insurance policy. The aim is to make sure you have the right amount of coverage and the correct dollar limits on features like deductibles, copayments, and annual out-of-pocket expenses. If you have any questions or discover any gaps in healthcare financial protection, call one of the insurer’s reps and get the issues resolved. Too often, people learn too late that their plans don’t cover important treatments or medications.
Make a Life Plan
Do you know where you’re headed in life? It seems like a strange question, but some working adults get so wrapped up in their careers that they forget about setting long-term, non-career goals related to traveling the world, taking up particular hobbies, exploring educational opportunities, or just doing something fun, like taking a sculpting class or learning to scuba dive.
Save the Right Amount
Learning to make saving a habit can contribute to your life’s happiness coefficient and help you build a solid financial foundation. If you don’t have a savings or retirement account, set one up and start contributing to it every time you receive a paycheck. Decide on a percent of your income to set aside and make sure the money goes into an interest-bearing account.
