From One Millennial to Another: Saving to Buy a House

How to Save to Buy a House laurenkinghorn.com

Okay, so you got me… I’m not a Millennial. Far from it.  But the author of this guest post is.   And his post is just as relevant to me (at age 45) as it is to Millennials.  Enjoy!

From One Millennial to Another: Saving to Buy a House

Guest Post submitted by Hard Money Lenders Online

When I was in junior high school, the American public and private sectors were suffering from a major crisis. Due to the heavy, controversial issues—which took place with the subprime mortgage market downfall in 2007—the United States, and many other nations across the globe spiralled down a path that nearly destroyed the worldwide economy.

I didn’t completely understand the full weight of this debilitating crash at the time, but the anxiety apparent in my parents’ faces sent the message that something was wrong.

Among those markets most heavily impacted by the devastating financial anomaly was the real estate industry. Generally, adults who endured through this could likely have a word or two to say about the foreclosures which took place in the late 2000s.

What seemed like golden opportunities to finance in gorgeous homes in 2006 resulted in disaster for many families, leading to shattered dreams and grief-stricken households.

My heart goes out to such individuals who were forced to deal with such tough trials, given that I was fortunate enough to be in a family in which our finances were in check.

But that’s beside the point—the American economy has since moved on from such financial woes, and the housing market at large has since been rejuvenated.

MILLENNIALS: ARE YOU MOTIVATED TO SAVE FOR A HOUSE?

Millennials, are you motivated to save for a house? Here's why you should be and how you can. It starts with a mind-shift. Read more at laurenkinghorn.com #howtosavetobuyahouseWith that, the Millennials (such as myself), whose previously youthful minds could not fully comprehend the issues at play during the Great Recession, are now old enough to own real estate unto themselves.

As a young married man who is fast approaching the end of his college career, I often find myself contemplating what the future holds.

My wife and I consistently discuss and ponder as to what our ideal home may be, and then thoughts transition to the image of our first house after we eventually leave our puny apartment behind us.

But here is the problem therein: we are poor college students that barely earn enough to scrape by.

Rent, groceries, gas fill-ups, insurance, and other basic expenses constitute the consistent bills we must pay to live our simple existence.

Whatever financial goals we may have only seem more daunting as the pay stubs are posted. Yet, we keep the end in sight.

The result of owning a sizable amount of real estate may not be an easy accomplishment by any stretch of the imagination, but it is attainable. Budgets and restraint help my wife and I make conscious monetary decisions each day, and we make an effort to save so that one day we can obtain the house we often dream of.

These words immortalized by Confucius should provide encouragement (and some context) for some people:

“When it is obvious that the goals cannot be reached, don’t adjust the goals, adjust the action steps.”

So, if you’re reading through my ramblings and also share a house-related goal, then that’s great. But like myself, I would hope that you have a response for this next question: are you doing the right things to get you into that eventual house?

If such is the case, my hope is that these personal suggestions for “action steps” will be beneficial to anyone who applies them.

Have I reached my eventual financial goal? No. Nevertheless, I am confident the baby steps taken day by day will lead to the seemingly gargantuan end.

HAVE THE DISCIPLINE TO SAVE

Money is hard to part with; a common stigma is that “money doesn’t buy happiness,” but it sure does make life more convenient and fun. Needless to say, in order to properly afford larger investments, one needs to enact self-discipline with their funds.

Depending on personal income, the rates at which one sets aside money for their savings account could be lower than usual. With my current income, I can only manage to save 10% each month.

One thing I highly recommend is that, regardless of percentage, you should definitely set up your direct deposit function through your employer so that the percentage of money you want in your savings is automatically deposited after tax deductions.

However, Paula Pant in writing for the Teachers Insurance and Annuity Association of America offered this bit of advice as far as saving percentages are concerned:

“…rule of thumb: at least 20% of your income should go towards savings. More is fine; less is not advised.”

 As Paula noted, it’s never a bad thing to save more either for emergencies or, in this particular case, setting aside funds for a future down payment on a home. The important thing is that once weekly, monthly, and perhaps even yearly budgets are consolidated; any honest Millennial concerned with their financial stability should consider how they might approach saving for their future house.

Such should be the case for any American household, but in my opinion, it’s especially so for the Millennial generation since we are now generally in a transitory period into adulthood.

College will soon be behind most of us (if it isn’t already by now), so heavy decisions regarding finances, real estate, potential marital relationships, and the prospect of children will surface for many people.

Keeping money reserved for all these important life developments is not just a good idea—it’s an absolutely crucial practice.

IN SUMMATION: DON’T SETTLE FOR LESS

Millennials, are you motivated to save for a house? Here's why you should be and how you can. It starts with a mind-shift. Read more at laurenkinghorn.com #howtosavetobuyahouseAccording to a CNBC article from January 2017, a Federal Reserve analysis on financial demographics revealed that the Millennial generation is “falling behind” the Baby Boomers, who, in many cases, constitute the parental generation of current Millennials.

The data presented statistics of a median household income of $40,581 for those in their mid-20s to early-30s. Such was a comparative 20% lower median income than Baby Boomers at that same stage in life.

For the Millennials like me who want to transform their dreams into reality, this alarming trend should raise red flags. Whether or not someone works toward buying a home via methods such as working with hard money lenders online or enlisting the services of a local investment agency, the future needs to mapped out and journeyed towards.

It may be easy to resort to a quiet, entertainment-focused life living with one’s significant other in a small apartment with simple jobs. Such is a doable life for many Millennials, mine included.

However, if we who belong to this dynamic generation want to make names for ourselves, hopes must be translated into action. Just as we might stand up for noble causes we believe in, make the extra effort to invest in your financial future.

It’s in your grasp; you just have to take the steps to get there.

Are you gearing up to buy your first house? Or your last?  Either way, I’m sure you have a comment you can’t wait to leave below…

Inspirational Quotes by Women

Inspirational Quotes by Women laurenkinghorn.com

Inspirational Quotes by Women

Ooh, ladies… wouldn’t you love to have YOUR quote included in a list of quotes by the world’s most inspirational women?

What a wonderful day to receive this awesome contributed post.  A couple of months ago, I received an email saying I was nominated for a MommyHero Award.  I discovered this morning that my MommyHero interview is live on the Happy Event Site. 

I’ll blog about this next week after the MommyHero Event where I’ll finally get to meet my friend, Lynne Huysamen and some other well-known South African Mom Bloggers.

And then I discovered an email this morning that I’ve been nominated for a Mummy Blogger Award. I need votes for this one, though!  If you enjoy my posts, I would really appreciate your vote.

(Click on the pink Mummy Blogs 2018 image in the Sidebar to vote).

Okay, so I’m not quite as famous as these incredible ladies, but at least I know a few people are noticing my blogs. 🙂

Quotes From Some Of The World’s Most Inspirational Women

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If you are looking for inspiration in your life, whether it is for your career, relationship, or your general state of mind, it is always a good idea to read quotes from some of the world’s most inspirational people. With that in mind, read on to discover a collection of quotes from some of the most inspirational women across the globe.

“You may not always have a comfortable life and you will not always be able to solve all of the world’s problems at once but don’t ever underestimate the importance you can have because history has shown us that courage can be contagious and hope can take on a life of its own.” – Michelle Obama

 

“We do not need magic to change the world, we carry all the power we need inside ourselves already: we have the power to imagine better.” A powerful quote from the creative genius that is J.K. Rowling

 

“When you embrace your difference, your DNA, your look or heritage or religion or your unusual name, that’s when you start to shine.” – Bethenny Frankel

 

“As keeper of the official seal, I felt strongly that we take the opportunity to modernize the seal to better reflect today’s Arizona. With that in mind, we’re announcing that we are updating two of the five C’s. First, we are replacing the citrus with cannabis to reflect the state’s newfound commitment to medical marijuana.” – Michelle Reagan shows that politicians can have a sense of humour too.

Remember, have fun in everything you do, especially your career!

You can head to the Arizona secretary of state website for more from Michelle Reagan.

“Women who seek to be equal with men lack ambition.” – Marilyn Monroe is known by some of her quotes, and this has to be one of the best.

 

“Without leaps of imagination, or dreaming, we lose the excitement of possibilities. Dreaming, after all, is a form of planning.” – Gloria Steinem.

You can head to Vogue for some more amazing advice from this 83-year-old.

“I don’t believe in guilt, I believe in living on impulse as long as you never intentionally hurt another person, and don’t judge people in your life. I think you should live completely free.” – Angelina Jolie

 

“Power’s not given to you. You have to take it.” – How could we mention inspirational women without referring to queen B? Beyoncé is the perfect representation of this quote.

 

“Getting past those labels, for me, pretty much really easy because I define myself.” – Serena Williams. Remember, other people do not define you; you define yourself!

 

“If you have an idea, you have to believe in yourself or no one else will.” — Sarah Michelle Gellar

 

So there you have it: a collection of quotes from some of the most inspirational women across the world. Hopefully, you now feel empowered and ready to tackle your day!

I’d like to become famous for this quote from my MommyHero Interview. I know it’s not super unique or anything, I’m sure it’s been said by someone famous somewhere along the line but I’d like to share it as it’s a credo I live by. 

“Find your Passion and Live It – Choose Happiness.” Lauren Kinghorn

Do you have any words of inspiration to share?

Would you like to leave a quote below that you’d like to become famous for?  Go for it! 

The Art of Self Care

The Art of Self Care | Inspirational Quotes Self Care

Inspirational Quotes Self Care

When I first became a Mom, I found that Self Care was something I sorely neglected.   And not just for 6 months but for the first 4 years of my son’s life.

I put his needs ahead of mine.  Every time.  And my hubby’s needs.  And the needs of the household and my business.

Family first, right?

Yes… and no. Because it’s not sustainable.

“Self-care is not a waste of time. Self-care makes your use of time more sustainable.”  ― Jackie Viramontez

Why Self Care Matters?

If you’re running on empty, at some point, you’re going to come to a standstill.

Moms, YOU matter.

Your needs, wants and desires are every bit as important as every member of your family.

“It’s not selfish to love yourself, take care of yourself, and to make your happiness a priority. It’s necessary. ” – Mandy Hale

Inspirational Quotes Self Care

“Self-care is never a selfish act – it is simply good stewardship of the only gift I have, the gift I was put on earth to offer others.  Anytime we can listen to true self and give the care it requires, we do it not only for ourselves but for the many others whose lives we touch.” ― Parker J. PalmerLet Your Life Speak: Listening for the Voice of Vocation

Re-introducing Self Care

So this year I determined things would be different.   In the last few months of last year, my blogs started making money.

And immediately I started contributing to the family coffers. This was important.  It was my goal, after all, so it gave me a wonderful sense of achievement.

But I realised it was equally important to start rewarding myself for a job well done.

“Pay yourself first.” – Robert Kiyosaki

Because that’s what would inspire me to greater heights.

And that’s why I decided that every month I would keep aside some of my blogging income for me-time.

In the form of Spa Days.  Because that’s my happy.  My bliss.  It’s the ultimate in Self-Care, isn’t it?

Me-Time

Inspirational Quotes Self Care“Take time off… The world will not fall apart without you” ― Malebo Sephodi

 

“When you recover or discover something that nourishes your soul and brings joy, care enough about yourself to make room for it in your life. ”  – Jean Shinoda Bolen

 

“Invent your world. Surround yourself with people, colour, sounds, and work that nourish you. ” – Susan Ariel Rainbow Kennedy (Sark)

 

“My mother always says people should be able to take care of themselves, even if they’re rich and important.”  ― Frances Hodgson BurnettThe Secret Garden

 

We need to start treating ourselves how we deserve to be treated, even if you feel that no one else does.  Prove to the world you ARE worth something by treating yourself with the utmost respect and hope that other people will follow your example.  And even if they don’t, at least one person in the world is treating you well: YOU.” ― Carrie Hope FletcherAll I Know Now: Wonderings and Reflections on Growing Up Gracefully

Finding Stillness

And as I enjoyed my first Spa Day, and stillness entered my life once again, I realised that this needs to become a daily practice. Not just a monthly practice.

Not just a special day, but a special time for me carved out of every day.

“Prioritise self-care & incorporate a MINIMUM of 60 mins ‘ME TIME’ into your daily routine.
YES THERE ARE enough hours in the day.  NO EXCUSES.”  ― Miya YamanouchiEmbrace Your Sexual Self: A Practical Guide for Women

Daily Self Care

I’m not there yet but it’s another goal I’m working towards this year. Taking an hour a day just for me sounds like a lot right now.  However, I find this kind of advice really helps…

“Enjoy the simple things. Don’t over complicate everything. Take a breath. Find some stillness. Stop to smell the flowers. Listen to the birds. Sit in the sunshine.”  ― Akiroq Brost

 

“I lied and said I was busy.

I was busy; but not in a way most people understand.

I was busy taking deeper breaths.

I was busy silencing irrational thoughts.

I was busy calming a racing heart.

I was busy telling myself I am okay.

Sometimes, this is my busy – and I will not apologize for it.”  ― Brittin Oakman

 

“Don’t allow your pain to express itself through your body, your health and your well-being. Work out what is worrying you.  Do something about your stress. Don’t internalize your frustration, anger, pain, stress and worries. Try meditating, going for a walk, exercising, doing something you love, or engaging in self-care. Undealt with it will manifest physically. Don’t allow that to happen.  You have a responsibility to yourself to look after yourself. If you’re struggling with how, seek help from another. Remember, you are not alone.”  ― Akiroq Brost

Just Breathe

“Sometimes the most important thing in a whole day is the rest we take between two deep breaths. ”  – Etty Hillesum

Alone Time

Knowing how to be solitary is central to the art of loving. When we can be alone, we can be with others without using them as a means of escape.”
Bell Hooks

Appreciation

The daily art of gratitude, the practice of journaling all the things I appreciate has been my saving Grace many a time.

“Stop focusing on how stressed you are, and remember how blessed you are. “ –Unknown

Say No to Others Sometimes

And as a woman, and especially as a mother (with people-pleasing tendencies), this advice is golden:

“If you want to live an authentic, meaningful life, you need to master the art of disappointing and upsetting others, hurting feelings, and living with the reality that some people just won’t like you. It may not be easy, but it’s essential if you want your life to reflect your deepest desires, values, and needs.”  ― Cheryl RichardsonThe Art of Extreme Self-Care: Transform Your Life One Month at a Time

Say Yes to You Sometimes

And as we learn to say no to others, we learn to say yes to ourselves.

And amazingly, as we say yes to ourselves, others start saying yes to us more often.

And then something magical happens.  By our example, we teach others to say yes to themselves.

“In fact, that is why the lives of most women are so vaguely unsatisfactory. They are always doing secondary and menial things (that do not require all their gifts and ability) for others and never anything for themselves.

Society and husbands praise them for it (when they get too miserable or have nervous breakdowns) though always a little perplexedly and half-heartedly and just to be consoling.

The poor wives are reminded that that is just why wives are so splendid — because they are so unselfish and self-sacrificing and that is the wonderful thing about them!

But inwardly women know that something is wrong.

They sense that if you are always doing something for others, like a servant or nurse, and never anything for yourself, you cannot do others any good. You make them physically more comfortable.

But you cannot affect them spiritually in any way at all.

For to teach, encourage, cheer up, console, amuse, stimulate or advise a husband or children or friends, you have to be something yourself…

If you would shut your door against the children for an hour a day and say; ‘Mother is working on her five-act tragedy in blank verse!’ you would be surprised how they would respect you. They would probably all become playwrights.”  ― Brenda Ueland

A note on Self Love

And can there be any self-care without self-love?

“Love yourself first, and everything else falls in line. You really have to love yourself to get anything done in this world.”  – Lucille Ball

 

“We are each gifted in a unique and important way. It is our privilege and our adventure to discover our own special light.” – Mary Dunbar

 

“If you celebrate your differentness, the world will, too. It believes exactly what you tell it—through the words you use to describe yourself, the actions you take to care for yourself, and the choices you make to express yourself. Tell the world you are one-of-a-kind creation who came here to experience wonder and spread joy. Expect to be accommodated.”  ― Victoria MoranLit From Within: Tending Your Soul For Lifelong Beauty

I sincerely trust that as I give more and more to myself, that I will be able to give more and more of myself to the world.

Over to You

Have you found this to be true for you?

Where are you on the Self Care Scale?  Do you take time out monthly, weekly or daily for you?

Do you meditate, exercise or enjoy pure indulgence like a Spa Day here and there?

What’s your personal brand of Self Care?

I’d love to hear what does it for you… what feeds and nourishes your heart, body and soul.

I invite you to share your self-care tips and experiences in the comments below.

I’ll leave you with this beautiful thought:

“Be you, love you. All ways, always.”  ― Alexandra Elle