Make This Season Work for You

Illinois had one of the snowiest Decembers in some time. It also was very cold, which meant Max and Theo didn’t get to spend as much time outdoors as usual. This resulted in a little bit of cabin fever, for both them and their parents.

They have a lot of toddler energy. In better weather, we spend as much time as possible outside to help them get some of that energy out. When they are stuck inside, it can be tough on them, tough on our house, and tough on Erica and me.

Twins on a slide during the Christmas season
On Christmas Day the weather was nice enough to get Theo and Max out of the house and to the park. They were a little wild but I was able to catch them while warming themselves on a dual slide in the sun.

Winter is a time when I like to get our house in order. I try to take care of a lot of those things we put off when we want to spend time outdoors: cleaning out closets, donating unused clothes, and throwing out stuff that ended up in the junk drawer.

It’s also a good time to get your financial house in order. Winter is a good time to create a family budget, start a 529 college savings account, to cancel unused subscriptions, open a retirement savings account, or make contributions if you have already one.

If you would like to use these cold, dark winter nights as an excuse to stay in and work toward your long-term financial freedom, we stand ready to help. We created the Illinois Financial Wellness Hub for times like these.

At the FinWell Hub, you can find out if you’re on track for retirement and learn how small contributions over time can make a difference. You can also reduce your financial stress by taking control of your finances, and answer your important money questions. With an online library of over 120 financial topics, there’s something for everyone. The search bar makes it quick and easy to find what you need.

If you are the type of person who just likes to speak to someone, you can schedule an appointment with a FinWell Hub coach. All appointments are 100% free and confidential with Certified Personal Finance Coaches who are trained to help you on your journey to financial freedom.

Because it’s not just good for you, it’s good for our state. I enjoy helping individuals, but I know that when we have more people in the state who are financially stable, and more people saving for their families, that benefits everyone.

There are many great things to see and do in Illinois in the spring, summer, and fall. There also are many great activities during winter, but for those days and nights that are just too cold, dreary, or dark, and when you are looking to do something productive and indoors, pay us a visit. I think you will appreciate our resource. And I know that I will appreciate it if you take advantage this.

Sincerely,

Michael