We as women encounter stereotypes when it comes to money and finances. Financial literacy is defined as being able to understand and use personal finance fundamentals to have a healthy relationship with money. If we don’t have this education that goes with financial literacy, we limit the opportunities and restrict us from growing.

Money has an impact on each decision we make in our life. Financial literacy is not taken seriously. The attitude in society is that people should learn how to earn money and what they do with their money is up to them.

Women of all backgrounds and ages struggle with the pressures of caring for a family, earn enough income, and plan for retirement. Educate yourselves about money and finances. This will help with achieving the next major milestone. Informed decision that you make gets you closer to that goal. 

Women make up the majority of being a caregiver and are three times more likely than men to leave the workforce and care for a family member. We as women earn less and live longer, but we are still responsible for the same living expenses as men.

Women face additional costs including more long-term care and overall healthcare expenses. Overcoming these obstacles demands some serious dedication to planning. More women are becoming homeowners and paying the long-term mortgages is no easy task. In the 1990’s single women began outpacing single men in home ownership-first time home buyers, repeat home buyers, living alone, and in spending one half of their income on housing according to the National Association of Realtors.

Learning how to become a financial literate woman is not simple. Know your income. It is difficult to manage something when you do not know how much you have. The first step in financial literacy is knowing the exact amount of money you bring in. This way you can pay your bills. Budgeting and sticking to it is the foundation of good financial management. Track your expenses and separate your needs from your wants.

Planning for retirement is a venture you cannot start too soon. It’s never too early to start thinking about retirement. Invest wisely by educating yourself about the types of investments. If it’s done correctly it can change your financial path. But, it can cost a large amount if the investments go wrong.

We as women today need to be financially literate. Taking charge of your finances is an important step in negotiating for yourself and your family. It all starts with you!

If you would like some guidance, don’t hesitate to reach out at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or call at 717-790-2171. With time you should see your financial situation improve.