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Financial activist Dasha Kennedy has fully embraced the era of “slow financial living.” However, don’t mistake “slow” for lazy or apathetic. This means being intentional, present, and managing your money rather than letting it control you.
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According to the American Psychological Association’s (APA) 2023 American Stress Survey, money is a significant stressor for most people, and small changes to your habits can improve your financial and mental health. Kennedy recently shared her recommendations for making your finances work in your favor. Here are her seven tips for living a financially slow life.
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There’s no need to follow the Joneses. Kennedy suggests focusing on stability rather than appearance. “I don’t have to prove anything to anyone. I’m solid where I’m at,” she said.
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Adopt automation
It’s not just about automating your invoices. For example, you can set up automatic transfers for savings, investments, and debt payments to remove these tasks from your to-do list. Setting it on autopilot means less stress and fewer surprises.
celebrate small victories
While big victories should definitely be celebrated, Kennedy emphasizes the power of celebrating small victories, too. From sticking to a budget to finding good sales, these small steps are worth recognizing because they give you more momentum toward larger financial goals.
Choose gratitude over guilt
Rather than feeling guilty about financial failures or things she hasn’t accomplished, Kennedy practices gratitude. “I look back and am grateful for what I have built, including paying my bills on time and growing my emergency fund,” she said.
make intentional decisions
Taking the time to address your major financial choices means those choices are more likely to align with your long-term goals. Intentionality means that all financial decisions are intentional, clearly made, and related to your vision.
value experiences more than things
Kennedy values experiences over material things, so think about what experiences make you happy. These investments in yourself, like taking a weekend getaway or exploring a new hobby, can bring you more joy and fulfillment than hoarding things.
Having boundaries allows you to have fun
Think of it as a form of self-care to budget for things that bring you joy and protect your money without feeling guilty. “I’ve learned to say ‘no’ when I need to,” she says.
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Kennedy’s slow economic life is not about doing less, but about doing more important things. It’s important to set boundaries, enjoy the journey, and stay connected to your personal values. As she says, “I live a life that not only looks good, but feels good.”
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 7 ways to live a ‘slower’ financial life, according to financial activist Dasha Kennedy
