Stress about money can feel like the weight of the world on your shoulders.

If you’ve been feeling overwhelmed about finances, here are some basic self-care habits to help bring your anxiety levels down and help you focus your energy.

Acknowledge what state you’re in

It helps to be honest with yourself about what’s going on— and this awareness is the first step in tackling financial troubles. Being willing to hold yourself accountable and being ready to learn from your mistakes will help you move forward and take action. Now is the time to get proactive instead of reactive, and as you do so you’ll build more confidence and resilience.

Stay active

Working out, going for a walk, taking a yoga class— all forms of movement help us stay grounded in our bodies and release anxious energy. If you’re feeling low, you might try some tips to stay active even when depressed. Whether you’re feeling energized or feeling lethargic, make a commitment to incorporate movement into every day and this will support you bringing down your stress levels.

Consider your mindset as you work to eliminate debt

Reducing debt is an important step for financial health. You might consider hiring a coach, reading some books about finance or checking out the US government website for a variety of helpful information. One thing to notice, too, is your mindset around debt. Do you carry guilt or shame related to your debt? Did you learn growing up that debt is ‘bad’ or too risky? What are your beliefs around debt? Both the information you know and the mindset around what you believe are important when you consider your debt.

Slow down

Breathe! Meditate. Increase the amount of sleep you’re getting.
Anxiety is often made worse when we feel rushed. Remember: you’re right where you’re meant to be. Breathe. Bring in the energy of trust. Sit with it.

Evaluate the big picture with your finances

Hiring a financial advisor can help you look at the big picture and make smart moves to benefit your financial situation. If you are considering buying a house, you may want to research home loans or talk about ways to increase your income. Creating a realistic budget and examining your money spending behaviors can also help you assess where you are and what you need in order to meet your goals.

Use budgeting tools

Do you use and stick to a budget? Not sure where to get started? There are a lot of online resources you can utilize including trying one of the best budgeting apps to help you. Many of these tools allow you to create a single dashboard that includes all of your banking accounts where you can set alerts and track your expenses. Staying organized and automating your accounts will be a huge relief and will help lower your anxiety when it comes to your finances.

Speak to someone

Another way to reduce stress is by confiding in a friend or family member. Ask for help from those you know who are successful in their finances! Or you might even consider working with a therapist to identify your beliefs around money and how to troubleshoot where the anxiety is stemming from. Often there’s more going on below the surface that’s driving your sense of worry or fear.

Be proactive

Continue to be honest with yourself and hold yourself accountable. Taking action steps is what makes the difference! Plan ahead, evaluate possible risks, and work to create a safety net for yourself and your loved ones. Retirement plans and long-term savings are important and you CAN get there. Working with a financial advisor or banker can help you understand your best options for saving and investing. Step back, take a deep breath, and trust the process as you are learning new information.

Managing your finances can be challenging and stressful. If you feel like you’re experiencing money-related anxiety you could also speak to your doctor. Surround yourself with a team of capable, trustworthy people who you know have your back, and know that you’ll find exactly the solutions you need to cope with stress and create a sense of inner calm. Financial anxiety is a common concern, and you’re not alone.

Featured