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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 ?

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!

Are you prepared to seize control of your financial destiny? Morningstar Investor serves as an excellent resource to assist you in navigating the world of investing gradually. For beginners, the abundance of information can be daunting. However, with Morningstar Investor, you can access straightforward, succinct, and comprehensible materials to steer you through your investment venture. Learning about investing, particularly concerning cryptocurrency, stocks, bonds, and IRA accounts, can be challenging. Therefore, having a convenient tool at your disposal can simplify your investment journey. As an Advertiser , I earn from advertisements listed on this site. What is Morningstar Investor ? Morningstar Investor is a thorough online platform offering detailed analysis, ratings, and research on various investment products like stocks, bonds, mutual funds, and ETFs. Whether you aim to secure your retirement, save for a home down payment, or increase your wealth, Morningstar is here to assist you in making well-informed investment choices. Read on to learn how! Why is Morningstar Investor a great resource for beginners? Clear and concise explanations: Morningstar breaks down complex investment concepts into easy-to-understand terms. This makes investing easy if you have no prior knowledge of finance, which allows you to grasp and understand even the most complex financial concepts. Educational articles and tutorials:  You can explore a variety of articles and tutorials that cover topics such as asset allocation, risk management, and market analysis. This will allow you to learn about different investment strategies and how to choose the ones right for you. Interactive tools:  Use Morningstar's interactive tools to calculate your risk tolerance, compare investment options, and track your portfolio's performance. These tools can help you visualize your progress and make data-driven decisions. Expert advice:  You can benefit from the insights of Morningstar's team of investment professionals, who offer guidance and recommendations. These experts can help you navigate the market and avoid common pitfalls. Advertiser Disclosure See my feature in 5 Steps Women Should Take in Their 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s to Be Set for Retirement Key resources for beginners: Getting Started with Morningstar:  It's important to learn about the different types of investment accounts (e.g., brokerage accounts, retirement accounts) and how to open one. Morningstar will help you understand the pros and cons of each account type and choose the one that best suits your needs. Investment Basics:  Morningstar can help you build your investing foundation for understanding fundamental investment concepts, including diversification, dollar-cost averaging, and rebalancing. You can learn how these strategies can help you build a well-rounded portfolio. Fund Research:  Explore Morningstar's extensive database of mutual funds and ETFs, including ratings, performance data, and analyst reports. Find funds that align with your investment goals and risk tolerance. Stock Research:  Find detailed information on individual stocks, including company profiles, financial statements, and analyst recommendations. As a user, you will also learn how to analyze stocks and identify potential investment opportunities. Advertiser Disclosure See my feature in Experts: How 401(k) Participants Can Increase Contributions in 2023 Start your investing journey with Morningstar Investor today! By leveraging the resources offered by Morningstar Investor, you can gain the knowledge and confidence needed to make informed investment decisions. Whether you're a beginner or have some experience, Morningstar is a valuable tool that can help you achieve your financial goals. Remember, investing is a long-term endeavor.  Don't get discouraged by short-term fluctuations in the market. Stay focused on your long-term goals and make informed decisions based on sound investment principles. Disclaimer: This article is for general information purposes only and is not intended to provide investing, tax, accounting, or financial advice. Harris Financial Coaching urges readers to do independent research and consult with financial professionals before making any financial decisions.

Ever feel lost between the stacks of paper and the flood of financial apps? You're not alone! As I delved into financial management and the difference between traditional and digital financial tools, I gathered insights from esteemed industry leaders, including CEOs and founders. They recommend a mix of digital tools for everyday tasks and traditional methods for in-depth analysis, all to build a secure and effective financial plan. From "Tech-Ancient Equilibrium" to "Blending Real-Time Digital with In-Depth Traditional," CEOs and founders share their valuable financial strategies. Balancing Traditional and Digital Financial Management Tools Employ Tech-Ancient Equilibrium Combine Digital Apps with Traditional Banking Adopt a Hybrid Financial Management Approach Blend Real-Time Digital with In-Depth Traditional Employ Tech-Ancient Equilibrium Managing finances is like building a house; sturdy, traditional foundations and innovative digital technology are needed. My go-to method of balance is "Tech-Ancient Equilibrium." I employ digital solutions like apps for everyday transactions, real-time data access, and automation, as well as old-school techniques like regularly reviewing financial statements to gain an in-depth understanding of financial health. These two combined help create a comprehensive and effective financial plan. Abid Salahi , Co-founder & CEO, FinlyWealth Combine Digital Apps with Traditional Banking Balancing modern digital platforms with time-tested traditional financial management tools is essential for effective finance management. My experience as a Sales and Marketing Director in the fast-paced world of forex and trading has taught me the importance of combining these approaches.  I recommend leveraging digital budgeting applications alongside conventional banking methods. This combination enables up-to-the-minute tracking of your spending and investments while also benefiting from traditional banks' proven security and dependability.  This strategy has made managing my finances much simpler and more efficient, allowing me to make better-informed choices. Tailoring this approach to fit your financial objectives can significantly improve your financial well-being and security. Ace Zhuo , Business Development Director (Sales and Marketing), Tech & Finance Expert, TradingFXVPS Adopt a Hybrid Financial Management Approach Finding the right balance between traditional and digital tools is crucial for effective financial management. A recommended strategy is to adopt a hybrid approach that combines the strengths of both.  Start by digitizing and organizing financial documents using scanning apps or devices and store them securely in cloud-based storage or digital filing systems. This allows for easy access and reduces reliance on physical paperwork. Leverage digital tools for day-to-day financial management, such as online banking platforms for monitoring account balances and setting up automatic bill payments.  Budgeting and expense-tracking apps can provide insights into spending habits. However, it's important to maintain a balance by incorporating traditional tools where necessary, such as keeping physical copies of important documents or having in-person meetings with financial advisors for personalized guidance.  Assess your needs, integrate a combination of tools that work best for you, and regularly review and update your approach to align with your financial goals and technological advancements. Sacha Ferrandi , Founder & Principal, Source Capital Blend Real-Time Digital with In-Depth Traditional In managing finances at Blue Insurance, I have found that blending traditional and digital methods offers the most effective approach. I lean on digital tools for real-time monitoring and transactions—they are incredibly efficient and accessible. However, I value traditional in-depth analysis and planning methods, as they often provide a tangible, detailed perspective.  One strategy that works well is setting monthly check-ins using digital tools to track progress and identify trends. Then, I complement this with quarterly deep dives using traditional methods, like printed reports or face-to-face meetings, to strategize and adjust plans. This combination ensures both agility and depth in financial management. Samuel Greenes , Founder, BLUE Insurance of New Jersey What's Next in Your Financial Management? Whether you're a budgeting pro or just starting out, remember that financial management is a journey, not a destination. Don't be afraid to experiment with the strategies you learned here; adapt them to your comfort level and goals. With some planning and the right tools in your traditional and digital toolbox, you can build a secure and prosperous future. If you're still concerned about how to navigate your financial future, schedule a time to connect with us below! ⬇️⬇️⬇️

As the holiday season approaches, employers are getting ready for holiday gatherings, white elephant gift exchanges, and more. If you've ever received an unwanted gift, you've likely stashed it away in a closet or passed it on as a regift the next year. So, what's a practical and budget-friendly gift option that won't make your coworker cringe? To assist you in selecting suitable and inexpensive gifts for your colleagues, I consulted CEOs and business leaders for their top recommendations. From candles and milestone bracelets to indoor plants, there are numerous gift suggestions to consider when choosing a practical and affordable gift that will be well-received by your coworkers. As an Amazon Associate , I earn from qualifying purchases. Affordable Gift Ideas for Coworkers Candles To Unwind and De-Stress Milestone Bracelets Create Lasting Memories A Podcast Subscription High-Quality Headphones Gift Cards Reusable Carrier Bags for Groceries Sunglasses Your Coworkers' Favorite Snack Lemon Inspiration A Framed Picture A Personalized Water Bottle An Indoor Plant Candles Help You Unwind and De-Stress After a Hard Day Candles are affordable and always make a great gift. They help you unwind and de-stress after a hard day or get in the spirit of holiday festivities. Each candle has its own unique aroma, and they're a great decoration for any part of the house. Choosing the candle that's best for them also adds a level of personalization. Chris Vaughn , CEO, Emjay Milestone Bracelets Create Lasting Memories Gifts to coworkers should be personalized based on what you know about that individual. If you give them a gift basket or bottle of wine, it will be shared with their family, forgotten, or regifted to someone else later. Gifting a milestone bracelet can help them celebrate the occasion and remember who gave it to them and when. If someone's celebrating a milestone birthday, getting married, or graduating, a personalized bracelet will forever keep you, the gift, and the occasion in their memory. Annette Harris , Founder, Harris Financial Coaching A Podcast Subscription Offers the Opportunity to Expand Knowledge Podcasts have become all the rage given how easily digestible the episodes are — they don't demand a lot of your time, and there's a world of topics you can gain insight on. From picking up a new forte to staying on top of industry trends, gifting a podcast subscription to your coworker won't just help them expand their knowledge but also reignite their long-lost interest in a hobby or skill. Harry Morton , Founder, Lower Street High-Quality Headphones Are In-demand It's not a popular opinion, but a practical gift you can give a coworker is a set of high-quality headphones. Headphones are a great gift because they are affordable, practical, and in demand, yet many people don't want to spend money on high-quality headphones. I recommend the Sony WH1000XM2 headphones because they are among the best headphones on the market right now, as well as very affordable. Matthew Ramirez , Founder, Paraphrase Tool Common Gift Cards Aren't too Personal and Need No Gift Wraps Gift cards are easy. They're a common gift, practical, and not too personal. Plus, you wouldn't need any gift wrap for something so small. Furthermore, go for gift cards from places most people could appreciate, such as Starbucks, Target, or Apple Music. It may seem a bit peculiar if you give them a gift card from a local shop they have never heard of. Drew Sherman , Director of Marketing & Communications, Carvaygo Reusable Carrier Bags Are Always Needed for Groceries Reusable carrier bags are an excellent gift idea for a coworker. Everyone needs a grocery or carrying bag for extra supplies or a shopping trip after work. For states with plastic bag bans, these bags are a lifesaver at stores. Finding affordable, customizable bags is not too far off the same low price point if one wanted to make it unique for a teammate. Gigi Ji , Head of Brand and Business Development, KOKOLU Sunglasses - There Are Never Enough to Have You can never have enough pairs of sunglasses — making them an excellent gift for a coworker. For example, if you sit on your sunglasses at the beach, forget them in the car, or leave them at a restaurant — having a backup pair is necessary. You can find sunglasses in various styles and colors at affordable prices to find a pair that suits your coworker's fashion. Cesar Cruz , Co-Founder, Sebastian Cruz Couture Your Coworkers' Favorite Snack Shows You're Thoughtful Snacks—especially our favorite snacks—make the work day so much brighter, so why not gift your coworker their favorite snack? For example, if you know a Snickers bar is your colleague's guilty pleasure, it's an affordable gift that you know they will enjoy and can even add a little humor to your day. The best gifts are thoughtful and show you pay attention to what they want. Patricio Paucar , Co-Founder + Chief Customer Officer, Navi Lemons — Inspire Them With the Popular Lemon-Lemonade Quote Lemons are a funny and interesting gift to give to a coworker. The common saying is, "When life gives you lemons, you make lemonade." Give a colleague some lemons and relay the quote back to them. It's a positive outlook on any situation and encourages optimism. For example, if a coworker is leaving the company, they can make the best out of their new role. Jodi Neuhauser , CEO, Ovaterra Frame a Picture of You With Them to Show Happy Times Wouldn't it be nice to store some memories with friends from work? They can keep it to remind them of your happy moments with them. It will be an invaluable gift for anyone. They can treasure this for a long time. It is an inexpensive way to show how much you appreciate them. Things like this can last to remind you of your friendship. Choose a frame in a color you know they would like. You can also decorate the borders with arts and crafts to make them more unique. Personalize the gift wrapping as well. They will thank you for this wonderful gift. It is rare for someone to put effort into giving this kind of gift. Years may have passed, but each time they see this gift, it is sure to paint a smile on their lips. Laura Martinez , Consultant and Content Writer, PersonalityMax A Personalized Water Bottle Can Be Used in Both Summer and Winter One great gift for a coworker is a nice water bottle. You can personalize a water bottle with your coworkers' favorite themed designs. A sturdy water bottle that doubles as a thermos can be a great gift because it can be used in the summer to keep a drink cold or to have a warm cup of coffee all day long in the winter. Most employees keep a cup or water bottle at their desks, so getting one for a coworker will be practical. Typically, you can find a water bottle anywhere from 10 to 30 dollars, so this gift is affordable for any budget. Liz Hogan , Career Expert, Find My Profession An Indoor Plant for Their Home Adds Value to Their Life Plants are an easy, affordable gift to give a coworker, and they'll certainly add value to their lives. If you know what their space is like, buy a plant that suits them and is easy to care for. It makes for a thoughtful gift, one they can care for and nurture, and it will remind them of you. Asma Hafejee , Senior Marketing Executive, CMR Surgical I'm sure these gift ideas will be helpful for your future holiday purchases. They may even inspire you to find other choices for the coworkers who are near and dear to you.

As a personal finance coach, many individuals ask me about businesses they can start when they have a limited amount of funds. Many small business owners start their businesses based on skills gained through their professional careers or a lifetime of learning. A few jobs you can start with limited to no funds are consulting, coaching, graphic design, or skilled trades like home repairs or painting. Branding your business is also important, so here are a few tips to get you started. Businesses You Can Start with No Money? Web Design Remote Mobile Notary A Consulting Firm Web Design for Small Business Owners Many small business owners do not have a landing page for their website. This could be a no-cost business idea if an individual has the skills and abilities to create a website. The business owner would be responsible for hosting the website and providing the content. The only requirements are time and knowledge of the individual building custom websites for other small business owners. Become a Notary Public In most states, becoming a notary public is a four-step process. You will be required to take an online course. Then you will need to locate a bonding agency, pay the minimal fee and complete your application. Once your application is approved, you can begin promoting your services in your local area or with online notary services. See my feature in U.S. News: Where Can I Find a Notary for Free? Create a Consulting Firm Depending on your chosen profession, you may be able to market your knowledge and skills to local or national businesses. If you work in human resources, you can start your own consulting firm and provide support to non-profits or small business owners trying to scale their businesses and develop legally compliant processes. As an accountant, you can provide bookkeeping services to business owners to help them organize their finances or file taxes. The possibilities are endless. How do you Create a Branding Strategy to Scale and Market Your Small Business ? Volunteer Utilize LinkedIn Use Canva for Marketing Stay Diligent Expand Your Reach by Volunteering Volunteering can help you grow your business by expanding your reach to other business owners, potential customers, and clients. Sharing your business knowledge with your local community through workshops or webinars can increase your credibility and act as a form of free marketing. Even if you don't make a connection immediately, your presentation and volunteer efforts can be shared by those you contact, resulting in future collaborative business partnerships and growth opportunities. Encourage Personal Stories on LinkedIn Personal stories are more compelling on any platform, but especially on LinkedIn. Having employees create personal posts about their experience with a company provides current and potential applicants with a glimpse inside the company. It builds the company's employer brand and compels the organization's followers to learn more about the employee experience. Combining posts with a custom hashtag also lets job seekers view all historical posts. When building a brand, you have to tell a story. Use Canva as a Marketing Tool Canva can be used for multiple marketing purposes. Canvas features allow you to create posts specific to each social media platform. It also contains templates for newsletters, YouTube covers, and even the ability to create and record a pitch deck. The free version of Canva has thousands of photos and available features, but the paid version may be a good choice if you want to elevate your marketing. See my feature in How to Finance a Startup Small Business Remain Diligent in Your Efforts One habit that should be gained to be more successful as an entrepreneur is diligence. When you create your branding strategy, diligence requires that you continue putting in the work to accomplish the mission and vision that you have for your company. At times, it may seem that you are not making progress or not receiving the income you expected, but staying consistent in your efforts can bring about change. If you have a product- or service-based business, continuing your efforts to market your business shows potential and future customers that you are relevant and persistent in your efforts. All it may take is reaching one consumer or client and for them to value your product or service for word of mouth to expand your business. Are you ready to start your entrepreneurial journey? Check out my business formation course, which can help you determine your business structure, formulate your business plan, and get your business off the ground today.