Budgeting is the foundation of finance. Only my close friends know that when the B word – budgeting – is spoken around me, I’m immediately all ears. I will leave a conversation that I’m in the middle of to talk about budgeting at the drop of a hat. I love budgeting so much, that I will eagerly spend my time with a loved one to sit and discuss personal financial planning. There is just something about knowing how your money is coming in and going out that really excites me.
Talking about money was scary, at first. When I did, it felt like I was sharing dirty secrets: check your bank statements against subscriptions, only charge what you can afford to pay off – even sharing my budgeting tools that reveal my gross and net income. So, after spending time listening to podcasts like Money Moves, adding financial advice into my social media algorithm and clicking through newsletters like What the Elle, I made the decision to enroll in a year-long financial course. The course is one of the best investments I’ve made. It’s not only helped me to have more financial clarity, but confirmed my thinking: your spending power is an opportunity to align your beliefs with the economy and community. This issue encompasses empowerment around finances, community and self.
Cover Woman, Jaleh Daie, is a scientist and educator who has given her time and made investments to help solve hunger problems with Agritech. Spending their time to take a stand against erasure, we learn about the Karankawas from tribe leader and Indigenous Educator, Chiara (Sunshine) Beaumont. While you explore these pages, you’ll pick up tips from realtors on buying your next home, understand various avenues to afford the cost of childcare and get a lesson on how to style an inexpensive sleek look. Plus, we’re sharing what to add to your wishlist – or check off someone else’s –with our 2024 Gift Guide! You’ll come across the basics of finance, advice on navigating political differences with loved ones and gain insight on the transition from military to civilian life.
Reader, this issue is for you. Financial empowerment can lead to financial freedom. Community empowerment can lead to community engagement. And self-empowerment can lead to self-love. It was liberating for me to realize that every purchase I make is a reflection for what I stand for. So, I only hope that you close this book sharing that same feeling.
Halie Ramirez,
Director of Content & Creative Services