Finances are one of those things that unless you’re passionate about it (a banker, accountant, CPA, etc.), it can be a major pain point your entire life. At least it has been for me! And apparently I’m not alone. According to the American Psychological Association survey, 72 percent of Americans have felt stressed about money within the last 30 days, and 50 percent are so freaked that it’s kept them up at night. Ugh!

As I’m getting further into my 30s, taking control—and more importantly—feeling confident about my finances is at the top of my goal list. When focusing on securing my finances game, I took super simple steps, which I highly suggest if you’re in the same boat. Here are 5 steps I recommend:

1. Dedicate 30 minutes every Sunday. One thing I’m learning is that ignoring certain aspects of my finances is just not acceptable anymore. Now, I set aside time to look at my accounts, make sure nothing is out of the ordinary, pay outstanding bills, check the stock market, etc. I’ll also open any snail mail that I’ve received that has to do with money. Simply having this time each week is major peace of mind.
2. Visit a Capital One Cafe. Capital One is working their butts off to erase uncertainty when it comes to $$, and I’m so thankful. They’ve opened up several cafes that are basically neighborhood hubs where you can work, meet up with friends, or bank. I hung out at the Glendale location recently and it was so nice to touch base with an experienced banker about lingering money questions (in-person and for free!). Plus, the coffee was deeeelish.
3. Experience a Capital One’s Banking Reimagined Tour. Along with a visit to the cafe, I joined in on this amazing event put on by CO. First, I went through a 20-minute interactive session where you figure out your #goals and financial values, then you start learning how to connect those to your personal finances. This tour is moving across the US this winter and spring, so check dates/locations here.
4. Talk it out. After going to the cafe and tour, my husband and I sat down and talked about where we’re at, where we want to be, and made some new goals based on what I learned from Capital One. Knowing that we’re on the same page was extremely helpful, and we both felt more confident with our situation afterwards. If you’re in a relationship or are connected to anyone financially, I suggest touching base.
5. Reevaluate your bills. While doing my Sunday sweeps, I realized that I was signed up for certain similar services (like both Pandora and Spotify). Though $10 doesn’t seem like a lot to waste each month, it adds up! I discontinued membership to anything that I hadn’t used in a few months. Make sure you’re only paying for things that are useful, and opt out of the rest. P.S. Spotify won.

Thank you Capital One for sponsoring this post! This is a paid endorsement. All opinions are my own and were not directed by Capital One. To learn more about Capital One, visit www.capitalone.com/cafes.

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