The Dreaded B Word! - Seize the Day Life Coaching

The Dreaded B Word!

After 16 years as a Personal Finance Coach, I still find it interesting to see people’s reaction to the word BUDGET. It feels so restrictive and, actually, almost like punishment I’m told. Clients hang their heads in shame or embarrassment, in childlike fashion. Yet, when I use the term Spending Plan, the reaction is much gentler though it means the same thing. Interesting, isn’t it?

The budget, or spending plan, in its simplest form is a tool to guide the family towards their long term goals and dreams. Few look at it from this perspective. Most, or at least many, see it as limiting to one’s current freedom rather than moving one towards their chosen future dream. The budget again is a TOOL. Nothing more, nothing less.

The actual issue at hand is the fact that many households do not bring focus and discussion to where they want to go in life, corporately as a couple, much less as a family. The goal is not to survive a life time together and eventually land somewhere where they can gripe about what others have and who’s fault it is (stated or implied) that they never got more out of life than this, if they make it that far. The goal is to communicate ~one of the main problems! ~and to strive together in a combined family vision. By this I don’t mean that they are always hand in hand but rather that the overall goal is theirs. Often the hesitation is the fear of judgment one may receive from their partner should they try to express themselves, to have a voice. That in itself is a full other discussion.

Finally, with a strong focused spending plan, yes, a budget, I have seen couples stay together who were days away from divorce; I have seen families grow in empowered togetherness; and I have seen people move from selfish individuals within a couple to loving and serving partners enjoying shared passions. Can spending plans only work for couples? No. I have also seen sole or single parent families grow towards their vision.

What of you? Are you afraid of the dreaded B word? I can help.

Liette Collier

Liette Collier is a certified CAN Life Coach and Facilitator with over 25 years in the human services industry, including 12 years as a personal finance coach.She has earned a Masters in Education, Bachelor in Psychology and Organization Management, as well as certification focused in Choice Psychology from Dr. William Glasser Institute (WGI).Now practicing in Moncton, New Brunswick — Liette has enjoyed a diverse professional background serving non-profit as well as for-profit organizations, specializing in Life Coaching, Personal Finance Coaching, Self-discovery, and Team Building.

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Liette Collier - July 22, 2020 Reply

I’ve not heard this before so I’m not sure!! It may be your browser but I’ll keep my eyes open in case the problem is here! Thanks!! : )

Andre - August 14, 2020 Reply

Hello!
I’m a 45 year old father of 3. I have so many things arround me to be greatful for. I have a specific mental health issue that seems to trick me into not achieving certain goals I want. I do feel trapped but always so close to catch my ride to personal success but as close as I get, every step always falls just short. I’ve come a long way but cannot seem to find the last few pieces of my puzzle.???
Any thoughts?

    Liette Collier - August 31, 2020 Reply

    While there could be many variables at play, I would love to work with you to explore this further. Could that be an option for you, Andre?

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