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To help you with preparing to ask for a raise, I asked HR managers and CEOs for their best insights. From communicating challenges you overcame to presenting tangible numbers and results, there are several tips that may help you ask for a raise in the future. So, what's one thing to consider when asking for a raise? Preparation Tips for Asking for a Raise Communicate Challenges You Overcame Consider Asking For Perks Prepare for the Worst Ask for More Than You'd Settle For Make Sure Your Industry is in Good Shape Expect a Waiting Period Determine Why Your Boss Should Give You a Raise Come Into The Meeting Well-Prepared Plan a Year Ahead Consider Your Timing Present Tangible Numbers and Results Communicate Challenges You Overcame Your boss and company must see your real growth. Therefore, instead of raving about your achievements, narrate the stories of how you encountered a challenge, made a superior result, and solved an issue. When we're nervous, we often demonstrate the victories. But, taken out of context, those victories may be challenging for another person to understand. Therefore, you need to communicate the whole story without telling the brief. It will show your boss how you think, how you approach work, and how you will take on cumbersome responsibilities in the future. So, never forget to consider proper communication. - Eden Cheng, PeopleFinderFree Consider Asking For Perks It's understandable you might want a raise for doing impressive work. However, if the company has a tight salary band, you might ask for perks instead of a monetary raise. For instance, you could ask for a more flexible schedule until the company can pay your target salary. As long as you continue to meet employer expectations while you are waiting for your monetary raise, enjoy the perks you can negotiate for yourself in the meantime. - Janice Wald, Mostly Blogging Prepare for the Worst One thing to consider is that you may not get it, and it is important to be mentally prepared for such a scenario. The best thing one can do in this situation is to ask their boss, "What would I have to do to get a raise?". In that way, you get a list with all requirements, and you can use it as leverage during your next negotiation about the raise. - Magdalena Socha, PhotoAiD Ask for More Than You'd Settle For It's important to do your research on how much you should be making in your position/industry. With that number in mind, you can decide what amount you would be happy settling for. Whatever you would be happy with, ask for more in your meeting so that you have wiggle room when the company (likely) counters you with a lower number. - Kristine Thorndyke, Test Prep Nerds Make Sure Your Industry is in Good Shape Especially in post-corona times, economic conditions are dynamic. Over the last two years, some industries have suffered more than others. Consequently, employees should study the shape of their industry and their company before asking for a raise. In some cases, the company might not be able to increase the payment at the moment. - Tomek Mlodzki, PhotoAiD Expect a Waiting Period When you ask for a raise, don't expect an immediate answer. Your boss likely won't have the permissions required to immediately increase your compensation. There are additional leaders involved, budgets to consider, and other employees who may have recently asked for a raise as well. All of these factors may be taken into consideration, which may take some time. Don't give up, but don't be disappointed if you walk out of the room without a bigger paycheck. - Logan Mallory, Motivosity Determine Why Your Boss Should Give You a Raise Think about your level of contribution to the team in the past year and what giving you a raise would mean for your boss. Has your performance indicated that you've made significant impacts to the company? Would giving you a raise retain you and push you to work harder? Putting yourself in your boss's shoes will help you think of ways that you can spin your request for a raise to make it mutually beneficial. When you do meet with your boss, make the initial conversation career-focused, including a performance review and what you and your boss's goals are for you moving forward. From here, you will better understand what exactly you can bring up when you do ask for a raise. - Jacob Dayan, Community Tax Come Into The Meeting Well-Prepared Asking for a raise and salary negotiations are not something to be taken lightly! With every negotiation you initially complete with a new company, the rest of your salary increases are based directly on that number in most cases. You need to make sure it's a salary that's fair and worthy of the time you are sacrificing away from your family to go to a company and gift them 40+ hours each week. Here are 5 key takeaways: Identify your range, considerations of the proper range, and remember the lowest number is typically what recruiters remember. Research the role, industry, and geographical pay rates on Glassdoor or Salary. Figure out your Unique Selling Proposition (USP) and value offerings that relate to the targeted role and re-emphasize this at the negotiation table. Evaluate reasons to negotiate your salary (education, experience, skills, cost of living, multiple offers, etc.). Discover ways to increase your perceived worth. - Matthew Warzel, MJW Careers LLC Plan a Year Ahead An employee should plan well ahead of time when asking for a raise. A year before, have a discussion with your boss. Tell them your goal of getting a raise in 12 months. Offer to achieve specific goals and ask if there are any others that you could achieve that would help the company's bottom line. I suggest an opening to the discussion such as: "I would like to talk about specific goals I can achieve over the next year to earn an x% raise. I can assist our company in reaching its financial goals by doing x, y, and z in order to show my commitment to our success. Are there any others I should add? Does this work for you? If your employer isn't open to this discussion, then spend the next year looking for another employer. - Jean Prejean, Guardian Computer, LLC Consider Your Timing When asking for a raise, the main thing to consider is timing. Showing your skills and possibilities to contribute to the project within the right time is essential as this can define a yes or no. That doesn't mean you should wait for the perfect time because it will never come. But yes, you should be aware of the movements that facilitate the acceptance of your request. Usually, they happen at critical moments (for those who like to take risks) or soon after outstanding achievements. - Thaina Geniselli, Financer.com Present Tangible Numbers and Results Don't JUST ask for a raise. Raises are usually given when an employee consistently delivers high-quality work that positively impacts the organization. And if you're not sure if your work is providing those types of results or if you can be doing more to achieve success… ask! When you have tangible numbers and results to share with your manager, present them meaningfully, reinforcing the value and impact you bring to your organization, and ask to chat about a compensation adjustment based on your recent performance. - Mike O'Callaghan, eMoney Advisor, LLC For additional tips, see my feature in How To Ask For a Pay Raise  on Wealthy Single Mommy.

In this article, we delve into the financial dynamics of relationships where women earn more than their partners. Four women, including a DebtCC spokesperson and a co-founder, share their strategies for navigating financial decision-making. From embracing goal-setting for financial success to adopting an income-sharing arrangement, these insights provide valuable perspectives on managing finances in a relationship. Navigating Financial Decision-Making When Earning More Than Their Partners Embrace Goal-Setting for Financial Success Manage Finances with Multiple Bank Accounts Foster Transparency in Financial Discussions Adopt an Income-Sharing Arrangement Embrace Goal-Setting for Financial Success Learn from the wealthy and embrace the powerful combination of goal-setting and a growth mindset for achieving financial success. Imagine attending a networking event and engaging with a successful entrepreneur who has amassed significant wealth. They stress the importance of setting clear, specific, and achievable goals to guide your short-term and long-term actions. Goal-setting is not merely about envisioning success; it involves breaking down larger objectives into smaller, actionable steps. This approach lets you track your progress and focus on what truly matters. Moreover, they emphasize the significance of writing down your goals and regularly reviewing them to maintain motivation and momentum. By documenting your aspirations, you commit yourself to achieving them and reinforce your dedication to the pursuit of financial success. Loretta Kilday, DebtCC Spokesperson, Debt Consolidation Care Related: How to Begin the Process of Combining Finances Manage Finances with Multiple Bank Accounts Talking about money is a least favorite subject for many. One way to avoid it is by having multiple bank accounts. This method I have used for almost six years, and money is never an issue. Consider having: One bank account each where your money is paid into. This is your personal account. One shared account where you both agree on your input based on your percentage split. This account covers all your bills, so you never have to pester each other about them. Pay the total agreed amount of all combined household bills (plus a small percentage more to cover any surprises). (Optional) One bank account for fun money! You can both agree on a percentage amount to pay into the "fun" pot, which goes toward dinner, nights out, etc. The idea is to remove the day-to-day irritation of finances. Agree on your percentage inputs upfront and stick to it. If the earning difference bothers one partner—though it shouldn't—they're not reminded of it every month. Zoe Ashbridge , Co-Founder and Senior SEO Strategist, forank Foster Transparency in Financial Discussions We have a similar income, but my partner also identifies as female. The key to the success of our financial decision-making is our ability to communicate clearly, regularly, and effectively. We believe in open discussions about our financial goals, expenses, and savings. By being transparent with each other, we can make informed decisions that benefit both of us and strengthen our relationship. We've found that trust and mutual respect are crucial in navigating financial matters, ensuring that each partner's voice is heard and that we work together as a team toward a secure and prosperous future. Rachel Zimmerman , Performance PR Manager, Taktical Digital Adopt an Income-Sharing Arrangement An effective strategy we use is an income-sharing arrangement. Regardless of who earns more, we agree to share our incomes in a predetermined ratio. This promotes financial equality and ensures both partners benefit from the combined income. For example, if I earn more, we might agree to split our incomes 60/40. This approach challenges traditional gender roles and fosters a sense of partnership. It allows us to make financial decisions based on our shared resources rather than individual incomes. By embracing this strategy, we create a more equitable financial environment and work together towards our financial goals. Yoana Wong , Co-Founder, Secret Florists What's Next? Managing financial decisions can be challenging when a woman earns more than her partner. Here are some additional tips to help: Communicate openly and honestly about financial goals and priorities. Create a budget together and stick to it. Review your budget regularly. Discuss long-term financial planning, such as retirement and investments. Assign specific expenses where one partner pays for the rent and the other could pay for the insurance. Seek help from a professional resource. By following these tips and working together, couples can get on track to successfully manage their finances despite income differences.

What are the benefits of achieving financial independence? Can it truly impact my life? Financial independence can truly transform your life in countless ways. It can empower you to take control of your finances, make informed decisions about your spending habits, and achieve a sense of security and peace of mind. You'll have the freedom to pursue your passions and goals without being hindered by financial constraints. So what does it mean, and how do you accomplish it ? I'm glad you asked. Why is being "financially independent" so important? Financial independence is a remarkable achievement that brings true financial security. It means handling any financial challenge that comes your way without relying on outside help. The journey to financial independence takes careful planning, effective money management, and the ability to weather any economic storm. But the end result is worth it—a life of financial freedom and the ability to achieve your dreams. When will I know if I'm financially independent? Achieving financial independence is a worthy goal allowing you to live a life free from debt and financial uncertainty. It means having enough financial resources to sustain yourself for an extended period, giving you the peace of mind to focus on other aspects of your life. Financial independence is about being self-sufficient and not relying on outside sources of income. To achieve it, you must plan carefully, work hard, and have a long-term perspective on your finances. With determination and effort, you can attain the freedom and security that come with financial independence. See my feature in What is Fire? Financial independence, retire early Can I work a 9 to 5 and gain financial independence? Gaining true financial freedom is daunting if you rely solely on your employer to provide your income. The reason is these sources are susceptible to unexpected disruptions. For instance, businesses may go bankrupt, employees may face layoffs, and government aid may only sometimes be available due to changes in eligibility conditions. Therefore, building up your savings and expanding your investment portfolio is crucial to achieving financial independence. By doing so, you can prepare for unforeseen circumstances and secure a stable future. How can I enhance the likelihood of achieving financial independence? To attain financial independence, it is highly recommended to concentrate on three crucial aspects: diminishing your debts, increasing your savings, and investing. It is feasible to work on all three facets at the same time. By paying off your debts, you can substantially reduce the interest you are incurring, thereby saving more money. As your savings pile up, you can explore various investment opportunities such as retirement accounts, stocks, bonds, or mutual funds. Doing so can establish a diversified portfolio that will help you attain financial stability and independence. What can my employer do to help me gain financial independence? Employers who wish to cultivate a culture of financial independence among their employees have found that offering a 401k plan or other retirement benefit offering is an excellent way to do so. Some employers have implemented automatic enrollment upon hiring to ensure that as many employees as possible take advantage of this benefit. This means that new employees are automatically enrolled in the 401k plan as soon as they become eligible, without any need for them to take any action. This has proven to be an effective way to encourage employees to invest in their retirement as soon as possible. However, some employees may need more encouragement and information to take advantage of the 401k plan. To address this, some employers hold enrollment events and seminars. These events provide employees with valuable information about the benefits of investing in a 401k plan and guidance on how to get started. By attending these events, employees can gain knowledge they may not have obtained independently. Finally, some employers provide employee assistance programs to help employees with their financial needs. These programs can be especially beneficial for employees who are facing financial difficulties and have no other resources to turn to for help. By offering confidential financial guidance, these programs can help employees get back on track and work towards financial stability and independence. Overall, employers who take these steps to support their employees' financial well-being are likely to see positive employee satisfaction and retention results. See my feature in Forbes Why is it Normal For You to Worry About Retirement Before You Retire? Is there a disadvantage to employers in assisting employees in achieving financial independence? Employers must prioritize the financial independence of their employees. This fosters a sense of appreciation and contentment among workers and ensures that they are financially secure as they near retirement. I have had discussions with several retirees who were unaware that their employer did not offer a 401(k) plan, leaving them entirely dependent on their pension. Unfortunately, they later discovered that their pension was insufficient to cover their monthly expenses during their retirement. Therefore, employers must provide their employees with the necessary tools and resources to achieve financial independence and ensure long-term financial stability. Are you aiming for financial freedom in the future? If yes, it's vital to work towards financial independence. By doing so, you can liberate yourself from the weight of debt and steer clear of working solely for a brief retirement period of 20 years or less. Get started on your journey today by scheduling a free financial coaching consultation to see how you can make a plan for the future.

Navigating the delicate balance between individual and shared financial goals in a relationship can be challenging. To help you find the right approach, we've gathered nine expert tips from founders, CEOs, and other professionals. From communicating and budgeting together to allocating income for individual and shared goals, these insights will guide you toward financial harmony in your relationship. Establishing Personal and Joint Financial Goals In a Relationship Communicate and Budget Together Allow Individual Spending Freedom Adopt a "Yours, Mine, Ours" Approach Understand and Align Money Perspectives Practice Monthly "Money Dating" Support Each Other's Financial Goals Prioritize Regular Financial Discussions Embrace Financial Empathy Allocate Income for Individual and Shared Goals Communicate and Budget Together Balancing individual financial goals with shared goals can be tricky in a relationship. One tip I can offer is to have open and honest communication about your financial values and priorities. This means discussing your long-term goals, such as saving for a house or retirement, and your short-term goals, such as paying off credit card debt or taking a vacation together. It's important to work together to create a budget that supports your goals while prioritizing your shared goals. Additionally, it's helpful to regularly revisit your financial plan and adjust it as needed to ensure you are both on track to achieving your goals. Georgi Todorov , Founder, ThriveMyWay See my feature in   How to Begin the Process of Combining Finances   Allow Individual Spending Freedom Allocate a certain amount of money every month that you can each spend on whatever you want, no questions asked. This way, you don't feel guilty about spending money on a hobby or indulgence, and it also helps prevent any resentment from building up. Of course, this doesn't mean you shouldn't plan and budget together for bigger expenses like vacations or buying a house. But having some wiggle room for individual spending can make the whole process feel less restrictive and more enjoyable. Remember - money doesn't have to be a source of stress in your relationship. Johannes Larsson, F ounder and CEO, JohannesLarsson.com Adopt a "Yours, Mine, Ours" Approach Using a "yours, mine, and ours" approach to budgeting and financial management can help individuals maintain financial autonomy while contributing to shared expenses and priorities. This approach can help prevent conflicts over money and promote a sense of fairness and balance in the relationship. For example, each individual can have their own personal account for individual expenses and then contribute a certain amount to a joint account for shared expenses such as rent, utilities, and groceries. This way, both individuals can maintain some control over their personal finances while also contributing to shared responsibilities. Roy Lau, Co -founder, 28 Mortgage See my feature in 5 Reasons You Shouldn't Get a Joint Bank Account With Your Partner Understand and Align Money Perspectives Building a solid financial foundation in a relationship requires a deep understanding of each other's distinct money perspectives. Acknowledging and adapting to the individual money personalities within the couple is vital. By doing so, couples can balance their personal financial goals and the shared objectives they aim to achieve together. This approach fosters harmony, cooperation, and effective financial management. It also promotes improved communication, enabling couples to navigate financial decisions more quickly and clearly. This understanding and alignment ultimately create a stronger financial footing, nurturing a healthier and more resilient relationship. With this in mind, couples should work together to create a financial plan that is mutually beneficial and promotes their shared goals. Hilary Kozak, VP of Marketing, LivSmooth Practice Monthly "Money Dating" One tip to balance personal and shared financial goals in a relationship is to practice "money dating." Once a month, sit down with your partner for a "money date." This isn't the typical dinner-and-movie night; it's a dedicated time where you discuss your financial situation, individual financial goals, and shared goals. It's like a meeting but casual and relaxed. On these money dates, you can share updates about your personal financial goals and discuss progress on your shared goals. This practice helps balance personal and shared goals and encourages regular communication about finances, which is often overlooked in relationships. Remember, the idea is to keep it light and open. This isn't a time for accusations or he ated arguments. The goal is to understand each other better financially, align your goals, and move forward together. Simon Niklaus , Founder, simonniklaus.com Support Each Other's Financial Goals Couples should acknowledge and respect each other's autonomy and individual financial goals to create a healthy balance between shared and individual financial goals. By supporting each other's financial endeavors, individuals will feel valued, which can lead to a stronger relationship. For example, if one partner wants to save for a down payment on a house while the other wants to invest in a new business venture, they can allocate their respective funds accordingly while contributing to shared expenses and goals. Ben Lau, Fo under, Featured SEO Company Related: 7 Ways to Develop Financial Trust in Your Relationship   Prioritize Regular Financial Discussions Regular financial discussions are my best tip for balancing individual financial goals with shared goals in a relationship. Openly talking about your individual and shared goals can foster understanding, set clear expectations, and establish a unified financial plan. During these conversations, discuss your financial aspirations alongside shared objectives like homeownership, vacations, or retirement plans. By acknowledging and respecting each other's goals while working towards shared ones, you can build a healthy financial life catering to both partners' needs and aspirations. Michael Sena, F ounder and CEO, SENACEA Embrace Financial Empathy Often, financial disagreements stem from a lack of understanding of each other's financial perspectives, priorities, and anxieties. Financial empathy involves understanding your partner's financial goals and appreciating the values, experiences, and aspirations that shape these goals. It means creating a safe space for open, judgment-free conversations about money. This might require patience, as money can be a sensitive topic, riddled with personal insecurities and societal pressures. Once you've established this mutual understanding, creating a financial roadmap that respects individual goals while working towards shared dreams is easier. This might involve compromise, prioritization, and setting timelines. For instance, you may allocate a certain percentage of your income towards shared goals like buying a home or saving for a vacation. At the same time, another portion goes towards individual goals like starting a business or pursuing further education. John Cammidge, PPC Trainer, Jcammidge Allocate Income for Individual and Shared Goals One tip for balancing individual financial goals with shared financial goals in a relationship is to allocate a portion of income towards individual financial goals and another portion towards shared goals. This allows each partner to pursue their own financial objectives while contributing to shared goals such as a joint savings account or a down payment for a house. For example, partners could allocate 70% of their income towards shared goals and 30% towards individual goals. This ensures that both individuals are working towards their financial goals and prevents resentment or conflict surrounding money. Jason Cheung,  Operations Manager, Credit KO

In working with women over a certain age, I have identified a significant gap in their finances when it comes to surviving in retirement. The gap occurs when women are left with maintaining their household expenses alone. This could be due to the death of a spouse, divorce, or even not making enough money while working their nine-to-five pre-retirement. Here are a few examples of how women living on Social Security are surviving and a few tips on how you can plan for your Social Security benefits eligibility. Social Security Benefits Eligibility Planning - Are you eligible? Living on Social Security After Divorce Living on Social Security Without Retirement Stay-at-home Mothers and Social Security Married Spouses and Social Security Qualifying for Spousal Social Security Social Security and Divorce Social Security Survivor Benefits Social Security Compensation Eligibility Living on Social Security After Divorce Mary was in a dire situation when it came to managing her finances. She had just been let go from a job after returning to work after her divorce. The job did not provide any benefits since it was a contract opportunity. Mary was told that the organization constantly sought government contracts and needed an experienced contract writer to submit grant requests. After a while, Mary found herself out of a job and was replaced by someone younger and more technologically savvy. Mary thought that she had a long-lasting opportunity and had incurred an insurmountable amount of debt. After losing her job, she consolidated her debt but was still struggling. When I spoke to Mary, we found other ways for her to reduce her expenses and determined that the debt consolidation company had taken advantage of her. We got her out of the contract and eliminated some of her other expenses, enabling her to have monthly money for groceries. Mary's situation is similar to many others that depend on a spouse with a high-paying job to sustain them throughout retirement. Mary never thought her spouse would leave her for a younger woman, with all the debt they had incurred throughout their 30-plus-year marriage. Today, Mary lives solely on her Social Security, has found great supplemental benefits using her Medicare supplement plan, and she's finding new ways to save, budget, and survive financially. It shows you that finding financial success and independence is never too late. See my feature in 5 Steps Women Should Take in Their 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s to Be Set for Retirement Living on Social Security Without Retirement Shawna, a mother of five, has found that she now lives in rent-controlled housing after raising her children and providing for them and her grandkids throughout her lifetime. Shawna went without many times while she was growing up and wanted to ensure that her kids had the best education and wanted for nothing. This led to her living on a fixed income from Social Security during retirement. Shawna tried to find ways to afford food, travel, and basic living expenses. If Shawna attempted to find an additional source of income, she could lose her rent-controlled apartment and the limited stipend she gets for food assistance. Since Shawna did not have a career that enabled her to invest in a pension or other retirement plan, Social Security benefits are her only income. Shawna wanted to be able to provide for her grandkids, visit her children who live out of state, and travel in retirement. However, her impulsive shopping habit limited her ability to do any of these things. Working with Shawna, we found various ways for her to maximize her Social Security benefits without reaching the benefits cliff that so many others face. Are stay-at-home mothers eligible for Social Security? Maybe. As a stay-at-home mother, if you have not earned enough credits to qualify for social security retirement by working, you will not be eligible for Social Security benefits when you reach retirement age. However, if you've been married to your spouse for at least ten years, you may be eligible for spousal benefits. If you've divorced your spouse and remain unmarried, you may qualify for spousal benefits after divorce. You will not be eligible for Social Security benefits under your ex-spouse if you're divorced and have been married for less than ten years. It's important to note that these benefits will be calculated based on your age, spouse's age, and numerous other factors. See my feature in Forbes Why Is It Normal For You To Worry About Retirement Before You Retire? Am I eligible for a portion of my spouse's Social Security if we're still married? Yes, if you worked outside the home for at least ten years and earned enough credits, you could be eligible for a portion of your spouse's Social Security Benefit. However, if you worked, a calculation will be completed, and you will get whichever rate is higher, your own retirement benefit rate or benefits from your spouse's record. Spouses can also be eligible for between one-third and one-half of their husband's Social Security. Still, the majority of women, their rate will be hired and eligible to receive their own benefits. How do you qualify for Social Security under your spouse's record? To qualify on a spouse's record, you must be 62, legally married to them for one year, and they must be receiving their Social Security benefit. If they don't draw their benefit, then you will have to wait until they do so. If your spouse is not 62, two exceptions can enable you to receive a benefit. If your child is under the age of 16 or if you have a disabled adult child, you can be eligible to receive benefits on behalf of that child. Once your child exceeds age 16, you will have to wait until you are 62 to receive benefits. What happens to your Social Security eligibility after a divorce? A few rules apply when filing for a portion of your ex-spouse's Social Security benefit in retirement. The most significant of those rules is that you must be unmarried when you file your claim. You also must have been married to your spouse for at least ten years to be eligible. If you decide to file, you and your spouse must both have reached the age of 62. When you file, if you have been divorced for less than two years, you will have to wait until your ex begins receiving a benefit before you can submit a claim. What happens when your spouse dies? Social Security does allow for payments to widows. Benefit eligibility is similar to a divorced spouse. However, the age eligibility is decreased. When you become a widower, to claim death benefits, you must be at least age 50. Age 50 is pretty young, and you may wonder if you would lose your benefits if you remarry. As long as you remarry after age 60, your survivor benefit eligibility will not stop. This rule applies to surviving spouses and divorced spouses. It's important to know that if you remarry that although the widow/er benefit will not stop, you should contact SSA to see if a higher benefit is possible on the living spouse record. Also, if your new spouse were to pass away, SSA would need the widow/er to contact you to determine the higher benefit amount. How much of my spouse's Social Security benefit can I receive? Numerous calculations can help you determine your Social Security benefit eligibility. Visit the full spouse chart at www.ssa.gov/planners/retire/agereduction.html . How much will my Social Security benefit be? Visit SSA.gov to: Check your benefit and payment information and your earnings record; Change your address and phone number (exception: SSI); Report your wages if you work and receive Disability Insurance (SSDI) and/or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) benefits.

To help you inexpensively upskill for your career and to prepare for big companies to lift their hiring freeze, I asked founders and other business leaders how you can show your willingness to learn on your resume. From using the OERI to SkillUp from Simplilearn, several online companies offer free to inexpensive courses for continuing your education. How to Upskill Your Resume with Free Licenses or Certifications Use Open Educational Resources Initiative (OERI) Try Open edX's Website Take Advantage of a Library Card at Lynda.com Explore Free & Cheap Options On Coursera Look for Certificates at Hubspot Academy Upskill at Open Learning Initiative Stick With LinkedIn Enhance Your Skills With Skillup from Simplilearn Use Open Educational Resources Initiative (OERI) One resource that enables you to get free licenses or certifications to enhance your professional skills is the Open Educational Resources Initiative. The OERI provides access to high-quality educational materials that are available for anyone to use and reuse at no cost. The initiative offers a variety of courses and materials, from business and management to computer science and engineering. In addition, the OERI also provides support for educators who wish to use these resources in their classrooms. As a result, the OERI is an excellent resource for those looking to improve their professional skills. Antreas Koutis , Administrative Manager, Financer Try Open edX's Website The Open edX website is one resource that enables you to get a free license or certification to enhance your professional skills. This website provides online courses and learning resources developed by top universities and organizations worldwide. The site offers a range of Massive Open Online Courses (MOOCs) that you can take at your own pace. Aviad Faruz , CEO, FARUZO New York Take Advantage of a Library Card at Lynda.com Anytime I want to learn a new professional skill, the first resource I turn to is Lynda.com. Lynda.com is an online learning platform that offers thousands of courses on everything from web development to project management. Best of all, many of the courses are available for free with a library card. That means I can access high-quality training without having to pay a dime. In addition, Lynda.com also offers certification exams for certain courses. Although the exams do cost money, they are generally much less expensive than equivalent exams offered by other organizations. As someone who is always looking to improve my skills, I find Lynda.com to be an invaluable resource. Jim Campbell , Founder, Wizve Digital Marketing Explore Free & Cheap Options On Coursera Coursera offers various certifications for professionals looking to upskill or learn more about an aspirational role or industry. Many are free, while others are eligible for financial aid, depending on the instructor and course you would like to take. Most instructors are from highly acclaimed organizations such as Google, Microsoft, Meta, and Ivy League schools, among many others. Enrollment is free but often expires after a trial period, and the cost varies depending on the course. Although some of the best classes are not completely free, many are still very accessible for under $100 a month compared to other educational institutions. Jason Panzer , President, Hexclad Look for Certifications at Hubspot Academy HubSpot Academy is an incredible resource for upskilling. HubSpot offers free courses covering technical skills (like SEO), soft skills (such as critical thinking), and community-specific opportunities (like building your business as a Black entrepreneur). You can complete most courses in an afternoon, and HubSpot is well-known and respected enough to put completion certificates on your LinkedIn profile and share them with colleagues. Kayla Ihrig , Founder, Writing From Nowhere Upskill at Open Learning Initiative One such resource for free certification courses is the Open Learning Initiative or OLI. OLI partners with leading educational institutions and organizations worldwide to provide access to high-quality learning opportunities at no cost. They have a ton of great, relevant free online courses for people looking to learn new skills and build their resumes. I'm really impressed by the variety of courses too. They offer courses and certifications on Social Media, Career Coaching, Data, Programming, Law, and even Tasting and communicating flavors! Nathan Hughes , Founder, Art Ignition Stick With LinkedIn LinkedIn is a fantastic source to take tutorials and certification quizzes related to professional skills. If you want to bolster your SEO credentials, go to LinkedIn. If you want to be more than just a casual practitioner of Microsoft Word and know it frontward and backward, turn to LinkedIn. The same goes for all Microsoft Office software. LinkedIn is a fertile training ground for finding jobs and becoming more recruitable. The platform even offers video tutorials on goal-setting and interpersonal communication in the workplace. Emily Saunders , Chief Revenue Officer, eLuxury Enhance Your Skills With SkillUp from Simplilearn One way to level up your career is to stay consistent in your education. But that doesn't require spending thousands on degrees and certifications. For example, SkillUp from Simplilearn offers free online courses. Pick a topic, such as Design Thinking for Beginners, and spend one hour learning a new skill. Once you finish, you'll receive a certification that will become a great addition to your resume. Kelli Anderson , Career Coach, Resume Seed What other ways or organizations have you found to enhance your professional repertoire that hasn't cost you an arm and a leg ?

Unlock your potential as a small business owner with free entrepreneurship programs designed specifically for women and minority-owned businesses! Fifteen seasoned professionals, including business coaches and founders, have shared their insights on the top fifteen programs empowering entrepreneurs and fostering growth in diverse business communities. From Dielle Charon's classes to the Women Entrepreneurs Builders Program, discover the myriad of benefits these programs offer and take the first step towards realizing your business dreams. Free Entrepreneurship Programs for Women and BIPOC eCornell Women's Entrepreneurship Program Dielle Charon's Classes Techstars Diversity in Tech Fellowship Women's Economic Ventures J.P. Morgan Chase's Program The Minority and Women Entrepreneurship Program (MWBE) The Amber Grant  WE Source  Your Local Chamber of Commerce Goldman Sachs' Entrepreneurial Growth Program Echoing Green's Fellowship Ignite My Future in School Program NAWBO's Leadership Development Program Small Business Development Center(SBDC) SheEO's Global Entrepreneur Empowerment Women Entrepreneur's Builders Program eCornell Women's Entrepreneurship Program The Women's Entrepreneurship Program offered by Cornell University is designed to assist women in launching and improving their businesses. The program comprises six modules that take you through the process of creating your venture and developing leadership skills for female entrepreneurs. If you want to learn about establishing a legal structure for your business and creating a strong entrepreneurial presence as a female business owner, this free program is an ideal fit for you. It has personally helped me. Annette Harris , Owner, Harris Financial Coaching Dielle Charon's Classes You may find that the free classes offered by Dielle Charon are the best option for women and minority-owned businesses. Dielle provides insights based on her own personal experience of starting a business without any support from people who looked like her. Dielle has been able to scale her business to seven figures and is passionate about helping women achieve their entrepreneurial dreams. Dielle Charon , Business Coach, Dielle Charon Coaching Techstars' Diversity in Tech Fellowship One amazing program that helped my small business succeed—and I would recommend it to women- and minority-owned small businesses—is the Diversity in Tech Fellowship by Techstars. This program is open to female entrepreneurs, underrepresented minorities, and other diverse groups. It offers an intensive three-month accelerator experience, exceptional mentorship from leading tech companies, access to resources and funding opportunities, interactive workshops, and industry experts.  Plus, it allows you to learn from experienced entrepreneurs who have been through it before—and sometimes even find the right partners for your startup. Luke Kowalski , Founder, Watch Binge Repeat Women's Economic Ventures Women's Economic Ventures, a nonprofit organization based in Santa Barbara, California, provides excellent support for women-owned businesses. I have been in touch with them on multiple occasions, and they have always been very friendly and helpful. They offer a range of resources to assist with funding, marketing, and business operations. Jason Vaught , Director of Content, SmashBrand J.P. Morgan Chase's Program I recently came across J.P. Morgan Chase's free entrepreneurship program for women and minority business owners. This program is revolutionary, especially for small business owners like myself in the blockchain and NFT sectors. It offers theoretical knowledge, practical tools, and insights that are immensely valuable.  For instance, I attended a strategic financing workshop, which completely transformed my approach to funding and investment. The program's focus on real-world challenges and solutions and the opportunity to network with fellow entrepreneurs make it an indispensable resource. Artem Minaev , Co-Founder, CryptoDose The Minority and Women Entrepreneurship Program (MWBE) The Minority and Women Entrepreneurship Program (MWBE) is one of the most beneficial resources for women- and minority-owned businesses. This program offers a wide range of resources geared toward the success of female and minority entrepreneurs.  These services include free counseling sessions with experienced professionals to help develop business plans; access to capital through loans at low-interest rates; training courses that cover various aspects related to starting a business; assistance in finding mentorships by connecting entrepreneurs with successful local companies; educational workshops on topics like legal structures, sales, marketing strategies, tax information, and financing options; as well as direct grants from Institutional Development Funds. David Bui , Director and Business Specialist, Schmicko The Amber Grant  The Amber Grant, provided by WomensNet, is an excellent opportunity for women- and minority-owned businesses. It awards $10,000 every month to a selected woman-owned business.  The program also includes additional grants for startups and nonprofits and significant annual awards. The application is straightforward and open to newer businesses, which is especially beneficial for startups. This grant offers financial aid and serves as a platform for recognition, which is crucial for businesses in their early stages. Nick Sforza , Founder and Digital Marketer,  Opvital WE Source If you're a woman or a minority-owned business owner looking for a fantastic, free entrepreneurship program, the "WE Source" program by the Women's Enterprise Centre of British Columbia is highly recommended. This program is an absolute gem because it offers a wide range of resources and supports expressly tailored to the unique challenges that women entrepreneurs face. WE Source provides access to expert business advisors, online learning modules, and networking opportunities that can be game-changers for small business owners. The best part? It's free! The program empowers women and minorities by providing them with the knowledge and tools they need to succeed in the competitive business world.  As someone passionate about supporting diversity and inclusion in entrepreneurship, I find this program incredibly beneficial for fostering growth and creating a supportive community for women- and minority-owned businesses. Samantha Odo , Real Estate Sales Representative and Montreal Division Manager, Precondo Your Local Chamber of Commerce Local Chambers of Commerce initiatives offer free entrepreneurship programs for women and minority-owned businesses. These programs provide education, networking opportunities, and advocacy, benefiting small-business owners by connecting them to local resources and support systems.  For example, our Chamber of Commerce offers a program called "Empower Her Business" that provides free business workshops, mentorship, and access to local business networks. This initiative not only equips women and minority entrepreneurs with essential knowledge and skills but also creates a supportive community where they can exchange ideas, collaborate, and access potential customers and investors. Yoana Wong , Co-Founder, Secret Florists Goldman Sachs' Entrepreneurial Growth Program The Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses program is a free entrepreneurship program open to women- and minority-owned businesses. This program offers small-business owners access to education, capital, and support services to help them grow their businesses. It also provides networking opportunities with other business owners and industry experts.  This program benefits small-business owners by offering valuable resources and support to help them overcome challenges and barriers to success. The program's education component provides business owners with knowledge and skills related to marketing, financial management, leadership, and other key areas of entrepreneurship.  Access to capital can provide much-needed funding for growth and expansion opportunities. The networking aspect allows business owners to connect with like-minded individuals and experts who can offer guidance and support. Zach Shelley , Founder and CEO, A-List Properties Echoing Green's Fellowship The Echoing Green Fellowship is an uncommon example of a free entrepreneurship program open to female and minority-owned businesses. It offers financial support, mentoring, and professional development opportunities for social entrepreneurs leading their own startups.  This program provides these aspiring entrepreneurs the resources to launch innovative solutions to pressing global problems while building their networks and allowing them space to grow.  The Echoing Green Fellowship is particularly well-suited for small business owners because of its long-term potential; besides monetary resources, it serves as a platform to bring new ideas to fruition and sharpen leadership skills through invaluable support from peers and advisors alike. Tasia Duske , CEO, Museum Hack Ignite My Future in School Program Being a female founder, the free "Ignite My Future in School" program offered by Tata Consultancy Services and Discovery Education has been a game-changer.  Its focus on infusing computational thinking strategies into everyday lessons resonated. The program's strategies prove beneficial in assimilating technology into our curriculum, paving the path for innovative thinking. It is like fuel to our ambition, encouraging us to push boundaries and explore new horizons in education. Nooran Zafarmand , Co-Founder and CEO, Japamana NAWBO's Leadership Development Program There are many entrepreneurship programs, but one that stands out as open to women and minority-owned businesses is the National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO) Institute for Entrepreneurial Leadership Program. This program provides a comprehensive curriculum that focuses on developing leadership skills, creating strategic plans, and fostering growth in all aspects of business.  It also offers mentorship opportunities with successful entrepreneurs and access to valuable resources, such as networking events and workshops. This program benefits small business owners by providing practical education and support and promoting diversity and inclusivity in the business world.  By participating in this program, women and minority-owned businesses can connect with like-minded individuals and gain the necessary skills and resources to thrive in their entrepreneurial endeavors. Warner Quiroga , Founder and CEO, Prestige Home Buyers Small Business Development Center (SBDC) As an entrepreneur in the United States, you can access the Small Business Development Center, which offers no-cost, one-on-one startup and management consulting. With nearly 1,000 local centers nationwide, the SBDC fosters small business growth and development, providing essential resources to new and existing businesses. In Michigan, the SBDC's Uplift program stands out for its commitment to diversity and inclusion. It's designed to give diverse entrepreneurs equitable access, tackling critical challenges like funding, professional networking, and growth strategies.  Uplift offers personalized support, financial literacy education, and a vast network of connections with culturally and linguistically inclusive resources. This makes it a particularly invaluable asset for underrepresented small business owners, helping them navigate the complexities of entrepreneurship. Karlie Robinson , Business Consultant, SBDC, Michigan Small Business Development Center SheEO's Global Entrepreneur Empowerment When it comes to empowering women and minority-owned businesses, one free entrepreneurship program that stands out is SheEO's Global Activator Program. This innovative program empowers female entrepreneurs with knowledge, resources, and access to a supportive global community of professionals. This program provides invaluable educational training in marketing, product development, operations planning, financial management, and more—all delivered online by some of the world's top business experts. Entrepreneurs joining this program also gain access to a robust network of mentors to help them develop and grow their businesses. Matthew Lake , Managing Director, Guardian Safe and Vault Women Entrepreneur's Builders Program The Builders Program by Women Entrepreneur is an excellent resource, especially for women entrepreneurs. It's a self-paced online course to learn at your convenience. The first course, "Risk-Taking & Entrepreneurship," is free and focuses on the unique role of women in business and culture, highlighting why women are natural brand builders. This course offers insights from various innovators and leaders, including the world's greatest free climber and a neuroscientist, providing tips on risk-taking. It includes practical exercises and worksheets, helping you develop and refine your business strategy.  This program is ideal for those thinking about starting a business or wanting to expand an existing one. It's also useful for gaining a cultural understanding of women in business, which can benefit personal and professional growth. This program is an excellent opportunity for women entrepreneurs to learn, grow, and advance their businesses. Precious Abacan , Digital Marketing Manager, Softlist

Fall is here, and with it comes family get-togethers, decorating, and maybe even gift purchases. Usually, these activities result in more expenses added to your fall budget. Make the most of your budget and the time you spend with family and friends by incorporating cheap or free activities into your fall bucket list. Here are a couple of my favorite low-cost fall activities. Shop At A Thrift Store Fall is the season for pulling out your light jackets and long pants. If you need to update your wardrobe or if your children have outgrown their old clothes visiting a thrift store for gently used or new items can save hundreds of dollars. Let's face it, kids are constantly outgrowing their clothes, and buying new clothes to replace them next fall can create a continuous cycle. Walk the aisles of your local thrift store to find some hidden gems. Decorate Your Home Advertiser Disclosure   It's essential to check your current stock of fall decorations before purchasing new ones for your home. Take an inventory, see what you have on hand, and find creative ways to add to your autumn decor. Get creative by visiting your local dollar store or checking out unique finds on Etsy  to limit your costs. You can also revisit the thrift store and see what valuable finds you may have left behind. Attend A Fall Festival Many cities have fall festivals and pumpkin patches that are free to enter. These family-friendly outdoor festivals allow you to meet the local craftspeople, listen to live music, visit food trucks and vendors, and even play children's games. More importantly, you will be able to purchase a pumpkin a two for your fall treats or decorating delight. If you've been stuck in the house for too long this year, attending a fall festival is a great way to enjoy the great outdoors. Bake At Home Now that you've selected the perfect pumpkin, it's time to start baking. There are a couple of seasonal pies that are perfect for the fall. After you've carved your pumpkin, visited an apple orchard, or shelled some pecans, you can bake a pie for any upcoming get-together. There's nothing like a homemade pie when you're gathering with your family, friends, or coworkers. Watch Classic Fall Movies   Ad     Setting time aside to bundle up by the fire or with a warm blanket to watch your favorite fall classic is an excellent way to enjoy the fall season. Many television providers like DirecTV, Netflix, and HULU feature fall shows on the home page. So, grab your popcorn and favorite blanket, relax and enjoy the show in the comfort of your own home. See my feature in 5 Baby Items To Buy Used . What cheap or free activities are on your fall bucket list? Leave a comment below. Need more ideas? Check out Unation  to find stuff to do in your local area.

Being in the military can be rewarding. Having a steady paycheck, medical and housing benefits that are provided for your service, and even tuition and scholarships for you and our family members. However, it may be challenging to make ends meet if your family size increases or you have to relocate, and suddenly there's only one income coming into the household. To help you find the best way to earn extra income while in the military, I asked career coaches and business leaders for their best advice. From getting a part-time job to working as a virtual assistant, there are several ways active-duty military servicemen and women can earn extra money. As an Awin Affiliate , I earn from qualifying purchases. Earning Extra Income in the Military Get a Part-Time Job Most military individuals don't know they can get a part-time job. The first step is ensuring that the job does not interfere with your military duties or be a conflict of interest with the military. Then, you will need to speak with your chain of command to ensure they approve of the part-time job. The part-time job you enter should be flexible with your military schedule if you are in a military occupational specialty with weekend work or irregular hours. Today, many part-time jobs like Uber, Lyft, or Rover can be done when you are available. - Annette Harris, Harris Financial Coaching Engage in Freelance Work One great way to earn extra income while in the military is to take advantage of the many available freelance work opportunities. Whether you're a writer, a graphic designer, a copy editor, or have some other skill or expertise, there are often websites and publications that will pay you to do freelance work. You can also do freelance work for businesses and even some military bases. One benefit of freelance work is that it most often does not require you to be physically present, which is a huge advantage for military personnel. - Matthew Ramirez, Paraphrase Tool Look for On Base Jobs with Flexible Schedules One tip for earning extra income while in the military is to get a part-time job on base. Many businesses on most military bases are always looking for reliable employees. This can be a great way to earn extra money while having a flexible schedule. This means you can still participate in your military duties and responsibilities while also having some extra money. Talk to your chain of command or the human resources office on base to see what opportunities are available. - Brian Meiggs, My Millennial Guide What are jobs on base that have flexible schedules? Selling your unique items in the Post-Exchange mall Restaurant Host Tutor Offering fitness classes at the MWR You can even sell your unique, handmade items on Etsy! Work as a Trainer or Instructor With your military training, you have a lot of knowledge and physical skills to offer. Therefore, one way of earning extra money is to take up a side job as a trainer or instructor. Various organizations, groups, or institutions may be interested in the martial and weapons handling skills you can offer. With military training, you will easily find a job as a self-defense instructor in schools, private companies, or professional training centers. You may be a valuable asset to professional entities offering technical knowledge and understanding of weapon handling. Do you like survival trips? Without a doubt, you will prove yourself as a perfect instructor. Just imagine how you can improve civilians' life with some military-related knowledge. What's great about a trainer or instructor job is that you can continue this career after retirement. It's never too late to start your training institution. - Nina Paczka, Resume Now Look for Military-Friendly Employers Look for employers that are considered military-friendly. Some of these companies include Home Depot, AT&T, PenFed, US Postal Service, CVS, Walmart, Hilton, and USAA, among others. These companies are more likely to work with your schedule and special circumstances. The Military Friendly program creates civilian opportunities for veterans and is one valuable resource you can use to find more of these employers in your community. - Natalia Morozova, Cohen, Tucker & Ades P.C. Work as a Virtual Assistant As a military veteran, you get a lot of highly relevant training that could be used in starting your freelancing side hustle. Use these skills, such as administration skills, record keeping, and management skills, to make an extra income online as a virtual assistant. You can structure your work hours depending on your availability and provide virtual assistant services to earn income on an hourly basis. The good thing with this means of earning income is that you will not have to invest much to get the income flowing. It is one of the spaces with the simplest ways to learn and earn. - yongming Song, Imgkits- Photo Editor

An Overview of Our Trip to Los Cabos, Mexico My husband (Dweise) was asked to officiate a 20-year vow renewal informally, so we took the time to enjoy an extended vacation to Los Cabos, Mexico. Here's an overview of our very exciting trip to Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos, Mexico. Traveling to Los Cabos, Mexico - Day 1 Going to the Orlando International Airport was a breeze this time. Usually, when looking for parking, we circle the airport about two to three times before finding the right exit. This time we went straight through with no issues. Luggage check-in was also a breeze, and we had ample time to hang out before boarding our flight. There were two flights headed to Miami and Los Angeles, and many people were running to get their flights for the last call. Please take my advice, get to the airport at least two hours before your flight to avoid this. After getting off the plane, we got a private transport through Discova to Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos. We were greeted with Cerveza Del Pacifico and a van with A/C! We've been learning Spanish for two years, so we were able to speak to our driver in Spanish. He also spoke English and mentioned some of the sites we should see and the food we should eat. We also drove by a beautiful view of the Pacific Ocean. Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos - Vacation Celebration (Video) Hyatt Ziva Los Cabos - DAY 1 / Check In When we arrived at the hotel had a private check-in. Our room had a great view of the Pacific Ocean and the activities. We stayed in the Club Oceanfront King. It included room service, a minibar, and access to the Club. After we were fully checked in, we headed to the Club, where we had a fantastic lunch of charred octopus, drinks, and dessert. The atmosphere was also very private, making it feel like we were secluded from the other guests. Later that night, we met at the Spirit of 1968 for a Meet & Greet, where the men and women received welcome gifts. The bride received a surprise purse from Louis Vuitton. Then Dweise and I played a couple of rounds of pool. I lost all three games. I'm going to blame it on the fact that I started feeling sick. See my feature in: Gen Z: Here'sI'm  How You Can Save on Travel on a Tight Budget   Day 2 - Coffee, Pool, and Bachelorette Parties Oh My! Our first stop was the Coffee House. I got a macchiato, and Dweise got a very delicious frappe. Then we ventured up to the Club for a breakfast of omelets, bacon, fruit, and green juice. The spread included other options like oatmeal, hash browns, cheeses, and meats. After breakfast, we returned to our room to relax before heading to the pool next to the Baja Snack Bar. Before going to the pool, we stopped by the Healthy Bar LeMarie to get some green juice. Here's a complete menu offering. We hung out by the pool and ate some very delicious tacos. The pool water was a great temperature. You could walk right in without getting water shock. Around 1 PM, there was music and dancing around the pool. It was all the way live! For dinner, we went to the Italian restaurant Ziffaro. The food was your typical pasta, nothing too exciting.   Later that night, we did a mini bachelorette party on the terrace of The Spirit of 1968. We had the area all to ourselves, and no reservation was required. It's first come, first serve if you want to celebrate an event in a certain area. Day 3 - Celebration Time We had our typical breakfast in the Club and chilled out in our room until it was time for the rehearsal for the ceremony. A lunch of charred Octopus at Coco Loco was a much-needed refresher. Coco Loco has two options, cold or hot, and it's located near the main pool. Later that evening, we attended the vow renewal. Look at Dweise; isn't he handsome? There was a reception with h'ordourves and music afterward. Then we walked along the beach. Day 4 - Let's Try Something Different We went to the buffet for breakfast but were not very impressed. They had a lot of options to choose from, but it was your typical buffet breakfast. We can say we gave it a try. Needless to say, we'll have the rest of our breakfast meals in the Club. We were supposed to go on a tour of Los Cabos, but I wasn't feeling too well. So, we rescheduled it for later in the week. We ended up hanging out by the Baja Snack Bar and the adult pool. It's very secluded, and we were able to find a corner away from everyone. Before lunch, we ventured to La Comer to see what they had to offer. It was about a five-minute walk from the hotel, and as you walk there, people will come out of their stores to try and get you to purchase something. When we arrived in Los Cabos, our driver said La Comer was similar to Wal-Mart in the United States. It was! It had everything from food to clothes to a pharmacy. Before entering, one street vendor told us someone would try to sell us a timeshare. Three separate individuals approached us to go on a tour of their resort. We politely declined. We found everything we needed at La Comer, so if you forget something, it's cheaper to buy it there as opposed to in the gift shop. Day 5 - Friends & Food I finally started to feel better, so we spent the day by the pool with friends. Dinner was at the French restaurant Bon Vivant. I tried the Brioche Pate, Onion Soup, and the Potato Crusted Grouper. Dweise had the Wild Mushroom Duxell, the Lyonnaise Salad, and the Ribeye. The food was great, but Dweise did get his steak. He got scallops instead. We didn't complain and ate the very delicious scallops. Day 6 - My 40th Birthday Celebration We took a tour of San Cabos and celebrated my 40th birthday! The tour was booked through Viator. We use them for all of our excursions when traveling. We got on a van with Waldo as the tour guide and six other tourists. The tour started, and Waldo asked everyone to sing Happy Birthday to me! That was very nice! We drove past Lands End, Lover's Beach, and the Arch. It was about a 45-minute ride from the hotel to the boat ride to see the Arch. We had the option to go shopping, but Waldo advised against it in Cabo San Lucas. He said it was better in Los Cabos because we wouldn't be hounded or harassed. The boat ride took us past Lover's Beach, Neptune's Finger, and Pacific's Window. We even saw a sea lion. We were also given tortillas to feed the fish. The next stop was the Glass Blowing Factory. On the way, we were given a lunch menu for later in the day. After the demonstration, we were able to purchase a few items from the factory. Then, we headed to Jasmine's for lunch. We were driven through the central city, passed City Hall, and saw a few Uber and Taxi drivers arguing. Apparently, the taxi drivers are not fans of Uber in Mexico. We had lunch at Los Tres Gallos. We started with chips and dip, an appetizer of empanadas, and an entree of mole con pollo. It was all very delicious, and the lunch portion was very large. After lunch, we walked back to the church near City Hall, and Waldo gave us a history lesson. Then we had pictures in front of the San Los Cabo sign in front of the church. Finally, we did some souvenir shopping, tequila and chocolate tasting before returning to the hotel. We had a steak dinner at Hacienda Baja on the hotel's first floor. It's not on the hotel map, so it took us a while to locate it. If you visit this restaurant, try and be there by 5:30 for the six o clock opening. The line was incredibly long when we arrived at six. The steak dinner was delicious, but it was very loud in the restaurant as large groups of families and gatherings were being held there. After dinner, we were walking back to our room and found out that they have vendors come on the property every Monday to sell souvenirs and for a fiesta! There was food, music, and vendors everywhere. If you don't venture off the resort, this is the perfect opportunity to gather your souvenirs and eat some Mexican food. Beware that the prices are slightly higher than at the souvenir shops off the resort. Day 7 - Back to Reality All in all, we had a great vacation. We were able to spend it with friends for their vow renewal. I turned 40 in another country with Dweise. I got COVID but didn't let it damper the celebration. You must make lemonade out of lemons and live the best life you can. I hope you enjoyed this glimpse into our travels, and I look forward to sharing my next journey into Sandals Curaçao in December. Buen Viaje!

It is the perfect time of year for those looking for fun ways to pass the time during their summer break while trying not to burn a hole in their pockets, so I have come up with a list of four ideas guaranteed to make this one of the most memorable and fun-filled summers of your life! As an Amazon Associate this post may contain affiliate links. Affordable Ways to Enjoy Summer Activities with Your Kids 1. Make a Waterpark in Your Backyard As the temperature shoots up, so does the kids' boredom level. Waterparks can be too pricey and too much of a hassle even to plan a trip for. So why not have a waterpark in your backyard? Gather all the kids in your neighborhood for an inexpensive aquatic festivity! Create a Slip-N-Slide using a tarp , water, and tear-free shampoo or soap. A water balloon fight station adds friendly competition, with water balloons found in your local stores for less than $10, and remember to grab the water guns. You can also have a homemade beach by taking a small kiddie pool and play sand that can be found from your nearby hardware stores that are less than $10, along with beach toys to make the beach experience more realistic. 2. Organize an Outdoor Movie Theatre Do you want to avoid the hassle of fighting over seats, agreeing on the best movie time, and paying for overpriced snacks? Why not create your own backyard movie theater? You can use a mini portable projector that costs between $30-$50 and a portable projector screen that is less than $30. To work smarter and not harder, find a large, blank wall or a wide white sheet or curtain that will accommodate your movie display. Next, gather pillows and blankets from around your house, patio chairs, and lawn chairs to provide comfort for your family and friends enjoying the movie. To create a truly memorable experience, a portable popcorn maker ($20-$40) would be one of the best things you could add to your backyard movie nights. Alternatively, you can find other sweets and snacks at a dollar or convenience store. This one-time investment can be used over and over again for years to come. Do you love the outdoors? See our feature in 15 Tips for Camping With Kids . 3. Conduct a Friendly Cooking Competition Hosting a cook-off competition with your loved ones can be just as exciting as watching the popular competitive cooking show, Chopped. Simply choose a meal or course, and decide who prepared the best dish. To make things fair, a non-participant can select four random ingredients from a grocery store (within a limited budget) so that no one has an unfair advantage. Alternatively, you can use ingredients from your kitchen for a lower cost. To determine the winner in this friendly competition, players can rate each other's dishes or have non-participants vote on who made the best use of the ingredients. 4. Find a New Hobby by Taking Classes and Participating in New Activities Finally, returning from summer break is a great time to brag about what you've accomplished or even find a new talent you didn't even know you had. Several art classes are available for various prices, including pottery classes that begin as low as $20 per hour or painting classes that cost less than $50 per person each class for individuals interested in expanding their creativity and artistic abilities. Take a cooking class that ranges from $25 to $100 an hour, and you will be able to improve your cooking skills in no time. Additionally, you can participate in physical activities like skating or ice skating classes ranging from $20 to $30 per hour. In contrast, roller skating classes are cheaper at $20 per hour. See how we spent our spring break in Haven Life: How parents are planning Spring Break this year Are you prepared to keep your kids occupied during the summer months? It's best to plan ahead to avoid hearing the dreaded phrase, "Mom/Dad, I'm bored. Can we do something fun?" Planning activities and outings in advance will ensure that your children have a fun-filled summer without the need for constant stimulation from electronic devices.

Are you feeling overwhelmed by your finances? You're not alone. The good news is that navigating the world of personal finance has been revolutionized by cutting-edge tools. I've discovered a few apps and tools that can help you manage your finances successfully. I've also contacted a few financial experts to uncover the most helpful features they've encountered. From key budgeting app features to a comprehensive financial overview with Personal Capital, here are the top budgeting apps, investment platforms, and robo-advisors to consider. Top Budgeting Apps, Investment Platforms, and Robo-Advisors Budgeting Apps You Need a Budget Personal Capital Investment Platforms Charles Schwab & Fidelity Investments Vanguard Robinhood and E*TRADE Robo-Advisors Betterment Wealthfront Schwab Intelligent Portfolios Choosing the Right Tools Top Budgeting Apps You Need A Budget (YNAB) Unlike traditional budgeting, where you estimate future finances, YNAB focuses on what you have right now. You assign every dollar you own (income) a job by allocating it to specific spending categories (rent, groceries) or future expense buckets (vacation fund). This ensures you avoid overspending and plan for infrequent costs by regularly setting aside smaller amounts. YNAB is flexible, too, allowing you to adjust your plan as needed. To get started, you create categories for your expenses and goals, enter your income, and then assign available funds to those categories until there's nothing left. Personal Capital According to Brandon Thor , CEO, Thor Metals Group , he uses Personal Capital to manage his money and monitor the investing world with a variety of simple tools that make everything easier. "I'm especially fond of Personal Capital. It combines all my financial accounts and gives me a clear picture of my spending, investments, and retirement plans. This kind of big-picture view is incredibly valuable to me." Personal Capital goes beyond budgeting, offering a holistic view of your finances. This app also provides educational resources to help you make informed financial decisions. According to Stephen Boatman , Principal & Financial Planner, Flat Fee Financial ,  he's found that the most useful features in a budgeting app would be one that has the following: An intuitive user interface The ability to sync with bank accounts and credit cards Auto-categorizing of expenses The ability to manually categorize expenses Notification of recurring expenses Advertiser Disclosure Investment Platforms Industry Leaders: Education and Choice Charles Schwab and Fidelity Investments are well-established platforms offering a wide range of investment options, including stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs. They cater to beginner and experienced investors with educational resources and commission-free stock and ETF trades. Their user-friendly platforms and vast research tools empower you to make informed investment decisions. Vanguard: The Low-Cost Champion Vanguard is a haven for long-term investors seeking a diversified portfolio at minimal cost. They specialize in low-cost index funds, which offer broad market exposure without the burden of high fees. Vanguard provides various investment accounts and educational resources to help you invest confidently. Robinhood and E*TRADE: Geared for Different Investors Robinhood and E*TRADE are popular for their commission-free stock and ETF trades. However, they target different investor types. Robinhood boasts a user-friendly mobile app ideal for beginners but offers limited investment options. E*TRADE provides a more robust platform with advanced tools for research and analysis, catering to active traders. Thor is always looking for ways to maximize his investment, so he looks for ways to trade stocks without paying commission fees. To do this, he's turned to Robinhood and E*TRADE. According to Thor, they're fantastic because they allow him to make fast and smart decisions about his investments. When it comes to keeping an eye on super useful prices, he also trusts apps like Kitco and BullionVault. He states they're great for staying on top of market trends and getting price alerts. Boatman has found that the most valuable features to look for when choosing an investment platform are ones that have the following: Easy account setup and money movements No trade fees Not selling your data to hedge funds, such as Robinhood Best-efforts execution Access to high-interest-rate cash holdings Educational resources for account types, investment options, and phone/email support Robo-Advisors Betterment & Wealthfront Betterment is a pioneer in robo-advising. It offers automated investing with low fees, caters to a wide range of investors, and has a user-friendly interface. Wealthfront focuses on tax-optimized investing and offers advanced features like portfolio risk parity. It's a good fit for those seeking a more sophisticated approach. Thor prefers Betterment and Wealthfront because they automate a lot of the investment process. These apps consider my financial goals and how much risk I'm comfortable taking, which saves me a ton of time and effort. These tools don't just help me manage my finances—they keep me informed and ready to adapt as opportunities or challenges arise. - Thor Schwab Intelligent Portfolios This service from Charles Schwab provides automated investing with a focus on low costs. It's a solid option for those who trust Schwab's brand and investment philosophy. Boatman also has the following advice when choosing Robo-Advisors and prefers ones that have: Low fund fees Flexibility within pre-determined portfolios Low educational need of the user when using a robo-advisor Factor-tilted funds Advertiser Disclosure Choosing the Right Tools The best tools for you depend on your financial goals and experience level. Here are some tips: Budgeting Apps:  Consider your budgeting style. Do you prefer a zero-based approach (YNAB) or a more traditional method like Personal Capital? Investment Platforms:  Evaluate your investing goals. Are you looking for low-cost index funds (Vanguard) or a platform with extensive research tools (Schwab)? Robo-Advisors:  Assess your comfort level with managing investments. Robo-advisors are ideal for hands-off investors, while experienced investors may prefer a more traditional brokerage account. Remember:  These tools are meant to empower you, not replace financial planning. Schedule a time today  for more guidance on planning your path forward! For complex situations, consider consulting a professional financial advisor. By leveraging budgeting apps, investment platforms, and robo-advisors, you can take control of your finances and build a brighter financial future!