Discovering Your Non-Negotiables in Your Finances

financial stacked intent resource Jan 21, 2025

At Stacked Intent, I believe that discovering who you are in your finances begins with identifying your non-negotiables—the things in life you absolutely will not compromise on. It is not just about setting financial goals; it is about aligning your money with your values and creating a life that feels true to you. Whether it is prioritizing your health, traveling, supporting your family, or simply feeling secure in your financial decisions, your non-negotiables are the foundation of your financial identity.

Your journey is uniquely yours, so there is no need to compare your progress to anyone else’s. Instead, focus on what truly matters to you and ensure your spending aligns with those priorities. If you are navigating financial challenges like saving for retirement (which should begin in your 20’s because of the power of compounding), managing debt, or preparing for unexpected expenses, take the time to plan intentionally. Ask yourself, “What do I need to protect in my life, no matter my financial situation?” These answers will guide you toward a financial plan that not only works but feels authentic to who you are. Circle back to that thought of retirement—did you know that starting a retirement savings while in one's early 20s, or even younger, can help ensure your assets grow to at least $1 million by age 65?!

It does not have to be complicated. Start with your non-negotiables: keep debt low, save consistently, and pay attention to how you spend your money. Once you have these basics in place, you can begin focusing on the fun parts of finances—like investing in your future. With Stacked Intent’s resources and support, these steps can feel more achievable than you might think.

 

Why Non-Negotiables Matter

Non-negotiables are your financial compass. They give you clarity, stability, and a sense of purpose. Knowing your non-negotiables helps you define who you are, what you value, and what you want out of life. As your priorities evolve, so might your non-negotiables. This is not about being rigid; it is about staying true to yourself while adapting to life’s changes. These days, rising prices and inflation are hitting hard, especially when it comes to essentials like groceries. But even with these challenges, a lot of people are making sustainability a priority. In fact, according to research many are willing to pay up to 9.7% more for products that are sustainably produced and sourced. This shows how important it is to align your spending with both your values and your current financial reality. By striking a balance between affordability and intention, you can make choices that truly reflect who you are while still staying on track with your financial goals.

 

Non-Negotiables in Finance

  • Set Financial Boundaries:
    Create a budget that reflects your needs and values. Avoid overspending or trying to keep up with others. Set clear limits on discretionary spending and stick to them.
  • Align Finances with Core Values:
    Spend intentionally on experiences or items that enrich your personal growth, health, or happiness. Say no to opportunities that conflict with your values, even if they seem financially tempting.
  • Build an Emergency Fund:
    Make saving three to six months’ worth of expenses non-negotiable. This is your financial safety net and a foundation for peace of mind.
  • Invest in Personal Development:
    Allocate part of your budget to workshops, courses, or activities that help you grow and stay aligned with your true self.
  • Manage Debt Effectively:
    Avoid taking on unnecessary debt and create a solid plan to pay off any existing debts systematically.

 

Flexibility with Non-Negotiables

Your non-negotiables are not set in stone. As you grow and evolve, your priorities may shift, and that is okay. What you were once willing to negotiate, you might now stand firm on, and vice versa. Growth is part of life, and staying aligned with your current circumstances while remaining true to yourself is the key to sustainable success.

Stacked Intent is here to provide resources and tools to help you stay authentic and intentional in your finances, empowering you to build a life you truly desire focusing on your non-negotiables.

 

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