Know Your Numbers: A Simple Path to Personal Finance
This guide is for Working moms who want to gain better control over their money so they can have real options.
Contributed By: Abi Majekodunmi · Founder, Freedom Runway
The Core Challenge
Most working moms have never calculated the actual cost of the choices they're making, whether that's staying in a job that drains them or leaving one without knowing if they can afford to. That gap between what they assume and what's actually true keeps them stuck making decisions based on fear instead of facts.
Key insight
Most advice for overwhelmed working moms is stay and deal with it, or quit and figure it out. I show working moms that personal finance can be simple and achievable through small, repeatable actions, so they have real options instead of just two extremes. By
understanding my own numbers, I was able to plan my way out of the 9-5, take an intentional pause, and start my own business where I now have the flexibility to be more present for my family.
Practical Strategies
Here are a few simple steps to help you get a better understanding of your money and start working towards personal finance goals:
Build a simple budget. Knowing your numbers removes the spiral and overwhelm that usually come from avoiding them. Track your income and expenses to get an idea of money coming in and going out. You don't need a perfect system, just one that works for you.
Find your money leaks and redirect them. If you don't have an emergency fund, it can be a great place to start. If you do, redirect that money toward a goal, whether that's investing, building a runway, paying down debt, or a sinking fund for a big expense you know is coming.
Automate what you can. Set up automatic transfers so your progress doesn't depend on willpower or remembering. One less decision each month means one less way the plan falls apart.
A small first step
Before you touch your numbers, spend 10 minutes this week writing down what you actually want, not what you think you should want, not the path you assume you're supposed to be on, but what you want your life to look like. Be as specific as you want and let your mind wander. This helps you see what you're actually working toward and builds momentum toward your personal and financial goals.
Abi Majekodunmi helps working moms build the habits they need to achieve their personal finance goals. She left corporate after building a financial foundation first, and now helps other moms get a better understanding of their money so they can start living life on their terms, have real options, and build financial well-being.
For more information, visit https://freedomrunway.com/start-here/