Q: “I feel like I’m drowning in debt, and I just can’t get a hold of it. Can you give me some tips on debt relief and money management?” – Leo

A: I’d love to open this up to one of my amazing friends, Joel Ferguson. Joel is a financial planner at Edward Jones and is very active in the community. Here is his expert advice:

1. Budget, budget, budget: Everyone’s initial feeling when someone brings up budgeting is fear. However, when properly done, a budget acts as a financial guide and provides you with financial freedom and flexibility to still do what you want but without the guilt of knowing you are accomplishing your other money goals. 
2. If it sounds too good to be true, it probably is: We all hear stories about these “get rich quick” ideas, but true wealth is built over time and with financial discipline. 
3. Make a plan: Whether it is paying off debt or a saving strategy, make a plan. Give yourself realistic timelines as to when you will have each part of your debt paid off and stretch yourself to pay it off early. The sooner you are debt-free, the more flexibility and financial freedom you will have. Find a strategy that works for you. The “snowball” method takes your smallest balance, pays that off first, and then adds that payment to the next debt item. The “largest interest” method involves paying off your debt with the largest interest rate first, then second largest. 
4. Ask for help: No one is an expert in all areas. Don’t be afraid to ask for help. Do your own research. Get advice from multiple sources. Then, do what is best for you in particular.
5. Find a support group: Surround yourself with friends and/or family members who can help encourage you and hold you accountable to reaching your goals. 
6. Little treats go a long way: As you hit different milestones in your debt/money management journey, treat yourself, meaning get some ice cream with the family, drive out to the beach for a relaxing day, or whatever will make you feel good and keep you motivated but not put yourself further behind in your journey. Avoid large spending sprees as “rewards,” and instead use those items as goals to save up for as you accomplish your other objectives.

Q: “I feel so uncomfortable in my own skin. I hate how all my clothes look on me, and I am unhappy with what I see in the mirror. How do I boost my self-esteem and feel prouder of who I am and what I look like?” – Riley

A: Think about how you view other people. Oftentimes, you don’t see the negative qualities that they may see in themselves. Whatever makes you feel good is the real key here: Wear a funny shirt that you love and that’s comfortable. If you want to lose weight, go for it – but you should still love yourself the way you are. You are art! Confidence is the most attractive quality you can have. Equip yourself with the clothes, accessories, hairstyles, etc., that make you feel good and really begin to strut your stuff. I will always recommend a casual photo shoot for some confidence-boosting. Take a friend and your phone, find a pretty location, and snap some great candid shots that will remind you how beautiful you and your life are. There is beauty in absolutely everything, and a mere shift in perspective will prove it to you. Show yourself some grace and care the way you deserve, appreciate how lucky you are to be alive and well, and live the life that allows you to be completely and unapologetically your authentic self.