A Review of the Month of November-End of the Month Wrap-up and Giving Thanks!

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So, how did you do for the month of November? Did you achieve your goals and meet your personal expectations? As I am sitting here in my creative world, the first thing that comes to mind is learning how to slow down and be present in the moment. This month flew by and it seems like I am always planning for the next day before the day is over! Time waits for no one. Enjoy time with your loved ones while they are still here. With that being said, let’s dive into today’s topic!

November ended on a somber note due to unexpected and untimely deaths during the holiday season. The highlight for me was being able to spend time with my family on Thanksgiving. We talked, we ate, we sang, and laughed all night. Mom and Dad did an excellent job on the food. They both made healthy food and the traditional Thanksgiving supper. To top it off, it was a beautiful day in the neighborhood and everyone was present and smiling. This post will reflect on how I did in several “life categories” during the month of November.

Financial Accountability in Full Effect!

I joined the Choose FI (Financial Independence) Facebook group after listening to the podcast. I immediately bought into what they were selling! The thought of financial independence has never crossed my mind. This podcast is phenomenal! After one week I was already making “money moves”. This group has consistently shared information that encouraged me and motivated me to do better. It’s time for me to focus on “life optimization” as the hosts said in episode 51R titled “Be Coachable”. They also talked about the power of mentorship and developing a “growth mindset. ” The Facebook group has over 6,000 members and several local chapters. I am honored to be an admin for the Baltimore Chapter.

I enrolled in a Certified Financial Education Instructor online course. I am learning a lot about the psychology behind managing money and how to encourage others to budget, invest, and build wealth. My intention is to complete the course by December 31, 2017.  In the miscellaneous category, I canceled one of my gym memberships to save money. I will continue to exercise at my main gym and outdoors. I lowered my cell phone bill by paying out the remainder of the lease on the phone. I increased my deferred compensation contribution again.

One of my sons is doing pretty good with Mint. He opened a second account dedicated to saving and has one check directly deposited into that account. My other son needs a little more financial coaching. Lastly, I became an Amazon affiliate and I launched my nutrition coaching business.

Food and Fitness

I sat down and enjoyed my Thanksgiving food. I skipped the dessert table and I still exercised that morning. I also had my body fat measured in the Bod Pod and was pleased with the results.

New Podcast

Below is a list of podcasts that you may want to listen too:

• Choose FI: The hosts are leading you on your journey to financial independence. The Facebook group is full of knowledgeable people who will keep you on the right path.
• Pocket of Money: The host focusses on financial freedom and interviews phenomenal guest about money.
• It’s Been A Minute: Sam Sanders is awesome! He covers everything political and pop culture. Please listen!

December Goals

Two goals are carried over from the month of November.  Life happens! This month, I am setting S.M.A.R.T goals. For those of you who are not familiar with the terminology, my goals are specific, measurable, attainable, realistic, and timely. Get with the program and refer to the below list:

• Finish the Total Money Makeover by December 31, 2017-Check in with my accountability partner to discuss the book.
• Vision board party is scheduled for December 16, 2017.
• Complete CFEI course by December 31, 2017.
• Continue to help my sons with Mint accounts by adjusting categories as needed
• Pay $100.00 towards my car payment by December 15, 2017.

What do you have going on this month? What are your goals? Are they S.M.A.R.T goals?

Check out the fitness items below. I use them all!