Feeling overwhelmed? Try this tip.

Photo by Daniel Thomas on Unsplash

Some advice sounds so simple and obvious that we immediately discount it. Now with that disclaimer out of the way, here’s one for you:

When in doubt, write it down.

Not exactly earth shattering, is it? 

But..

When you build a habit around writing things down, the positive impact in both your day to day and big picture decision-making quickly becomes noticeable.

For example, when you head to the grocery store with your list in your head instead of keeping a list on your phone, you’re more likely to forget things. And while you might not be losing any sleep over forgetting milk at the grocery store, many people are losing sleep from stress and anxiety around their financial decisions. This is where writing down what’s bothering you can help. 

First, fight the urge to make this habit any more complex than needed. Simply start with writing down what’s on your mind that’s got you worried. Or try creating a simple pros and cons list if you find yourself weighing a big financial decision. 

The process of dumping all those competing thoughts and emotions that fill up your head out onto the same page can be a cathartic experience.

By lightening your mental load, you quickly begin to see your situation with more clarity. That clarity is what allows you to make an informed decision with greater comfort and confidence.

At its core, this is also what good financial planning is all about. 

The on-going process of writing things down helps us acknowledge and recognize our emotions. Then we can make financial decisions that incorporate our emotions instead of trying – and failing! – to remove them completely.

After all, the best financial decision for you personally is one that works both financially and emotionally because that’s the one you’re most likely to stick with. So when in doubt, start by writing it down and watching as the best way forward begins to reveal itself.