10 Goals to Make the Most of Your Life in the New Year

There’s no denying that investing is one of the best ways to build true wealth.

You can save money your entire life, but nothing beats the power of compounding interest returns that come through investing.

Seriously, I’m talking about historical returns of 10%, regardless of federal interest rates.

So, it’s no longer a matter of should you or shouldn’t you invest but are you ready to start investing.

In this episode, I’m sharing 6 signs you’re ready to take your finances to the next level and start investing.

Even if it’s on a small scale, the power of investing is unmatched.

 

Here's a glance at this episode:

• [01:45] Raya shares how a 25-year-old can become a millionaire at retirement by contributing $300/month to a retirement plan.
• [05:45] Have a plan in place to pay off your debt or pay it off completely before you aggressively start to invest.
• [09:34] Not sure if you’re contributing to a retirement plan? Check your pay stubs! You can also contact your HR department.
• [14:21] Having a “Build Wealth” goal is a great place to start when it comes to investing, especially if you’re unsure of what your long-term goals are.
• [18:19] Just like any other subject, the more you familiarize yourself with investing, the more comfortable you will become with it.

 

Rate, Review, & Follow:

Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show!

This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life!

To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Grab a copy of my free Debt Repayment Checklist

CGS Blog Article – How to Research Your 401k Investment Options

Listen to Episode 107 – Adding Investing to Your Money Goals

Sign up for the Introduction to Investing Workshop

Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program

Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group

Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

If I’m being honest, working my way up the corporate ladder was exciting and a major confidence boost.

If I didn’t feel that City Girl Savings was my life’s purpose, I would’ve happily stayed at the major financial institution I was working for and continued to work my way up.

I’ve always been a reliable, dependable worker, but once my mindset shifted to the value I brought to the table, that’s when the growth started happening fast.

That’s why I’m so excited to talk with millennial career coach Eliana Goldstein about the mindset shifts everyone needs to take their careers to the next level.

If you’re working your way up the career chain, this is for you!

 

Here's a glance at this episode:

• [04:17] Eliana shares how she got certified and started coaching as a side hustle while she was still working in corporate.
• [06:51] Not sure what you want to do? Eliana shares some questions to ask to help you reflect and pinpoint what your next move could be.
• [20:58] Negotiating is not as complicated as people think it is. The trick is to manage your thoughts and emotions while you’re in the process of negotiating.
• [33:15] Never tell a company that you are in the search for a job, especially if your job security could be in jeopardy.
• [39:16] There is an emphasis on working more as you grow in corporate. Certain industries are worse than others.

 

Rate, Review, & Follow:

Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show!

This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life!

To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Follow Eliana on Instagram

Use code CGS100 for $100 off Eliana’s Career Upgrade course!

Learn more about Eliana

Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program

Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group

Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Money doesn’t buy happiness. I firmly believe that. But, I also believe that money buys you options…and having the option is what breeds happiness.

Having the option to take a trip, bless a family member, leave your job, start a family, and so much more. Money makes those things easier.

Money allows you to have more and more options.

Now, while I don’t think money buys happiness, I do think there are certain things you can spend your money on and feel genuinely fulfilled.

In this episode, I’m sharing a few intentional spending ideas that will leave you feeling fulfilled and happy as a clam!

Let me add that you may not be in a position to spend your money on these things now, but definitely keep them in your back pocket for the future.

 

Here's a glance at this episode:

• [02:10] There are so many ways you can donate, and it doesn’t have to just be money. This can leave you feeling incredibly fulfilled.
• [04:20] The memories and experiences that come with traveling can stay with you forever, making the cost of the trip fulfilling.
• [07:20] The foods I consume directly impact my health. Because of this, I can’t get cheap with spending money on healthy foods.
• [11:43] Starting a business isn’t for everyone. However, if it’s something that you’ve wanted to do, it’s a great way to spend money in a fulfilling way.
• [13:59] When you’re in a position to help others, financially or not, it leaves you feeling empowered and fulfilled.

 

Rate, Review, & Follow:

Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show!

This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life!

To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Listen to Episode 70 – My Budget Non-Negotiables

Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program

Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group

 

Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

I started consistently journaling back in 2018.

The benefits that have come over time through consistent journaling are truly amazing.

I eventually was able to quit my corporate job and run City Girl Savings full-time.

I was able to see the growth in my thought patterns over time. I’m able to look back on old journal entries and feel pride and gratitude. 

Because journaling has brought so many blessings into my life, I’m now an advocate of the practice.

In this episode, I’m sharing 7 reasons to start journaling on a regular basis as well as a few journal prompts to get you started!

 

Here's a glance at this episode:

• [01:48] The more you journal, the more you learn about yourself. The more you learn about yourself, the more self-aware you become.
• [04:10] Raya recalls a time where journaling helped avoid a major fight with her partner. Had she not journaled and acted on her feelings, bad things could have happened.
• [09:50] Journaling can help keep your goals top of mind. This can result in you taking actions that help you reach the goal.
• [13:30] Raya shares a snippet from an old journal entry back in 2020 to showcase how memories can be invoked through journaling.
• [16:22] Need some help getting started? Raya shares 3 different journal prompts that can help you begin your new journaling routine.

 

Rate, Review, & Follow:

Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show!

This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life!

To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Listen to Episode 58 – My Daily Morning Routine for Boosting Productivity

Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program

Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group

Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

As I’ve gotten older, I realize there’s nothing more important than my peace…and protecting it at all costs.

I used to spend time with people who thrived on gossip and drama, until I realized how much of my personal energy that time cost me.

Now, I limit my time and interaction with people, places and things that drain my energy. I also set firm boundaries on protecting my mental wellbeing, and while it’s not always easy, it does get better over time.

In this episode, I’m sharing the different ways I’ve come to learn to protect my peace and how it’s made a huge difference in my life.

If you’re struggling to set boundaries, preserve your energy or protect your peace, hopefully some of my strategies and experiences can help you!

 

Here's a glance at this episode:

• [02:34] Raya shares her experiences with specific people and the energy drain that took place because of being around those people.
• [06:00] Setting boundaries can lead to guilt. Raya shares how she checks herself when starting to feel guilty for protecting her peace.
• [11:31] Journaling has been a powerful practice to help set the tone for Raya’s day. She uses it to release feelings of stress, anxiety or excitement.
• [15:30] Raya spent a lot of time in nature when her mom was sick. This has now become a morning routine to promote serenity.
• [18:15] Leave other people’s problems and struggles at the door. Raya tries to avoid taking home the weight of other people’s problems.

 

Rate, Review, & Follow:

Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show!

This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life!

To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Recommended Read – The Celestine Prophecy

Listen to Episode 58 – My Daily Morning Routine for Boosting Productivity

Recommended Read – Discerning the Voice of God

Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program

Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group

Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

One thing I’ve learned over time is that ignoring your past traumatic experiences and running from the feelings gets you nowhere.

Acknowledging your inner child and revisiting your past, as hard as it is, is a necessary step in loving yourself and living your best, happiest life.

Self-Love Coach turned Business Mindset Coach Asia Hilario is joining us on the show today to help teach you how to heal from your past traumas and unlock your future potential.

Asia and I go deep with our discussion on thought control, self-sabotage, self-awareness and so much more.

If you’re ready to step into the woman you were always meant to be, you don’t want to miss this episode!

 

Here's a glance at this episode:

• [03:15] Asia created a blog talking about her journey to self-healing and it led to so many amazing accolades and opportunities.
• [14:23] Your reaction to how people treat you can say a lot about your own insecurities. Listen to your thoughts and watch your reactions.
• [27:21] Self-sabotage can happen in many ways. Asia explains how to keep an eye out for the behaviors that are self-sabotaging.
• [36:00] Operating from a place of scarcity means you have the opinion that there’s not enough to go around.
• [42:40] Asia learned that storytelling is her superpower. When she shares her stories, people are impacted in a way she never thought possible.

 

Rate, Review, & Follow:

Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show!

This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life!

To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Follow Asia on Instagram

Asia’s Self-Sabotage Course

Learn more about Asia

Download the Free Money Mindset Worksheet

Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program

Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group

Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

The time is now to build the life of your dreams!

We’re living in a time where women are making more, out-earning their partners, investing for the long-term and building true wealth.

It’s a wonderful time to be a woman making money, but with the lack of financial education growing up, it’s up to us to bridge the knowledge gap.

When it comes to budgeting and money management, certain activities are guaranteed to set you up for long-term success.

In this episode, I’m sharing 6 money moves you can start implementing now to get the ball rolling on your financial success.

 

Here's a glance at this episode:

• [02:20] The first of the money moves to start implementing now is saving for retirement. This is one of the best ways to build long term wealth.

• [05:11] Before you start investing, you’ll want to have a few things in place – paying down high interest debt and saving for emergencies.

• [11:05] Money mindset is a critical part of financial success. Raya breaks down why you past is so important and shares a resource to help.

• [13:50] Commit to doing what it takes to reach your goals. Be okay with sacrifice, discipline and saying no…temporarily.

• [16:00] Be open with your friends, family, and partner about being on a budget. You may be surprised with the accountability you get.

 

Rate, Review, & Follow:

Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show!

This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life!

To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Listen to Episode 107 – Adding Investing to Your Money Goals with Marc Russell

Listen to Episode 1 – Big City Spender to City Girl Saver

Download the Free Money Mindset Worksheet

Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program

Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group

Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

“Hi, I’m Raya and I’m a recovering structure addict”.

Like most Type A individuals, I thrive on structure, organization, and time-specific tasks.

Unfortunately, my need for structure got so bad that I started dreading quality time with friends and family.

Thankfully, I’ve found ways to stay organized that suit my personality, but those ways are no longer at the expense of anyone or anything!

In this episode, I’m sharing 5 ways a Type A personality (AKA Me) stays organized and sane.

If you struggle with this, hopefully my tips and resources can help!

 

Here's a glance at this episode:

• [02:02] There was a point in time where dinner out with her besties felt like a chore to Raya. She knew things had to change.

• [05:26] One of the great things about Asana is that you can color-code your tasks to help categorize everything that needs to get done.

• [08:25] Not only does OneNote help Raya identify her tasks for the day, but it includes the goals she’s working on, so they’re always front and center.

• [13:05] Raya batches tasks like recording podcast episodes and writing blog articles, to help her manage her time more effectively.

• [17:57] Learning how to say “yes” to things that are non-work related has helped Raya utilize her time for things outside of just work and business.

 

Rate, Review, & Follow:

Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show!

This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life!

To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Raya Recommends: Task Management Tool Asana

Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program

Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group

Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Let’s be real. Finances are still a very personal topic.

While we’ve made strides towards having open money conversations, we have a long way to go.

Since financial literacy isn’t included in standard education curriculum, you can’t blame yourself for not being great with money.

You likely learned a lot of your habits from your parents. And that may not be a good thing.

In this episode, I’m sharing some major signs you need help managing your money.

If any of these signs apply to your situation, acknowledge them, and take action. Ignoring the signs will only delay your progress.

 

Here's a glance at this episode:

• [01:48] With the rise of social media, we have inside scoop into how the wealthy (and un-wealthy) spend their dollars, causing feelings of inadequacy.

• [06:06] Even $25 a paycheck being saved can help you break free of living paycheck to paycheck. Small steps add up over time.

• [11:02] Did you know Raya creates budget plans? If you don’t have a budget, you need one! Raya shares how you can get started with one.

• [17:07] One of the biggest signs you need help managing your money is if you don’t have a budget. A budget is the number one tool for success with your finances.

• [22:50] When you invest in working with a coach or other professional, you have skin in the game. This is usually what helps you get the results.

 

Rate, Review, & Follow:

Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show!

This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life!

To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Raya Recommends: The Richest Man in Babylon

Let Raya create a budget plan for you!

Listen to Episode 15 – My Debt Free Story and the Biggest Takeaways

Listen to Episode 84 – Why You Need to Pay to Get Better with Money

Learn about Raya’s Financial Focus Coaching Program

Need help with your finances? Request a call with Raya!

Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group

Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!

Have you ever felt like you’re on the verge of breaking through to the next level?

Almost as if you’ve mastered everything you can master at this point in your life and to move forward, you must grow in new and different ways?

Well, I’m in that spot right now.

I feel like I’m at the cusp of a new level and to enter it, I need to let go of things that no longer serve me and start new habits and routines that will foster my growth at the next level.

So, after giving it a lot of thought, I’ve determined the 6 habits and routines I’m adding to my life to help me become my next-level self. 

In this episode, I’m sharing the 6 next-level habits I’m adding to my life to help me level up!

 

Here's a glance at this episode:

• [02:25] Raya shares an important realization – the habits that she plans to implement may only serve her for a point in time…and that’s okay.

• [05:41] While Raya read more books in 2023, she watched TV more than she read books. Can you relate? Listen as she shares why this won’t be the case in 2024.

• [10:18] Raya realized that how she dressed everyday had a huge impact on how she felt. Now, she vows to let go of the yoga pants and sweatshirts!

• [16:20] Having 2-3 dedicated call days every week will help Raya spend time focusing on her clients, as well as time focusing on growing the business.

• [20:30] Raya plans to not only track her goal progress (per usual), but will dedicate time to thinking about what the data is showing.

 

Rate, Review, & Follow:

Did you love this episode? Are you a fan of the City Girl Savings podcast? If so, please consider rating and reviewing the show!

This helps spread the word about City Girl Savings, and hopefully helps more people make the best money moves possible on the way to their dream life!

To leave a review on Apple Podcasts, click here, scroll to the bottom, tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!

Also, please make sure you’re subscribed and following the City Girl Savings podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube!

 

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Listen to Episode 105 – My Personal and Business Goals for 2024

Check out Sydney Cummings Houdyshell on YouTube!

Follow City Girl Savings on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok

Join the City Girl Savings Facebook Group

Subscribe to the City Girl Savings Newsletter!