Chances are, if you’re serious about your health and fitness, you’re probably using some type of tool to keep you on track. You might be working with a personal trainer, like Wendy Ida, using a mobile app, or utilizing a wearable tracker, such as a Fitbit or Apple Watch.
Whatever method you’re using, it’s all about accountability. Believe it or not, the same holds true for your personal finances. After all, a goal is a goal, right? And frankly, the route to success is pretty much the same. If you want to improve any aspect of your financial life, setting goals, creating a plan and tracking your progress is critical to being successful. Just as you would follow the same steps in creating your fitness plan, let’s review how these same steps can be applied towards your Financial Fitness Plan.
(1) Begin with the end in mind: What are your goals for your finances? What are you trying to achieve? Having a specific goal in mind will help you stay laser focused on the outcome. For example, if your goal is to buy real estate, be specific about what you want to buy. If it’s a single family home, be clear about the details. How many bedrooms, bathrooms does your house have? Does it have a yard, what part of town do you want to want to live in? Be as specific as you can and set a date for your goal to be achieved. This step, while seemingly elementary, is actually fundamental to how successful you’ll be in meeting your goal.
(2) Write it down: Putting your financial goals in writing, and looking at them periodically–say weekly or monthly–will keep them fresh and real. Also, when writing your goals, see yourself as having already achieved the goal vs. meeting the goal sometime in the future. Instead of: “I want to be debt-free,” say: “I am debt free and no longer have balances on my…” – fill in the blank: credit cards, student loans, auto loan, etc.
(3) Track It: Know what your starting point is, so that you can track your progress and celebrate your wins. It may seem a bit daunting at first, and it might not even seem that a lot is happening at the beginning. But, trust me, you will see progress in your finances because now you’re paying attention. On the other hand, if you discover that progress is waning, you’ll know exactly what to do to get back on track.
(4) Keep it simple: How you track your progress will greatly depend on what’s most easy and convenient. There are tons of apps out there, a lot of which are free or nearly free. Minimally, you’ll want the app to include an aggregation tool that will connect and pull in transactions from your financial institutions, allow you to create customizable budgets, and send alerts–if, for example, you exceed your monthly budget. Utilizing this type of tool is very powerful because what you see is your financial life in real time.
(5) Finally, Work with a Professional: Just as you would hire a personal trainer to design a customized fitness plan, provide guidance and accountability, the same can be said about meeting your financial goals. A Certified Financial Planner or CFP®, is akin to a Financial Coach. They can help provide clarity about your finances and your goals, create a customized plan and assist in tracking your progress. Many CFP® professionals charge flat fees, so you’ll know exactly how much you’re paying for their services. To locate a Certified Financial Planner in your area, visit either the national CFP Board website, www.cfp.net or the Financial Planning Association website: www.plannersearch.org.
What’s the health of your Finances? Poor – Good – Excellent. Why?
The views expressed represent the opinion of Urban Wealth Management LLC. The views are subject to change and are not intended as a forecast or guarantee of future results. This material is for informational purposes only. It does not constitute investment advice and is not intended as an endorsement of any specific investment. Stated information is derived from proprietary and nonproprietary sources that have not been independently verified for accuracy or completeness. While Urban Wealth Management LLC believes the information to be accurate and reliable, we do not claim or have responsibility for its completeness, accuracy, or reliability. Statements of future expectations, estimates, projections, and other forward-looking statements are based on available information and Urban Wealth Management LLC view as of the time of these statements. Accordingly, such statements are inherently speculative as they are based on assumptions that may involve known and unknown risks and uncertainties. Actual results, performance or events may differ materially from those expressed or implied in such statements. Investing in securities involves risks, including the potential loss of principal. While equities may offer the potential for greater long-term growth than most debt securities, they generally have higher volatility. International investments may involve risk of capital loss from unfavorable fluctuation in currency values, from differences in generally accepted accounting principles, or from economic or political instability in other nations. Past performance is not indicative of future results. The links listed on our website offer direct access or ‘links’ to other internet websites. These sites contain information that has been created, published, maintained or otherwise posted by institutions or organizations independent of UWM. UWM does not endorse, approve, certify or control these websites and does not assume responsibility for the accuracy, completeness or timeliness of the information located there. Visitors to theses websites should not use or rely on the information contained therein until consulting with an independent finance professional. UWM does not necessarily endorse or recommend any commercial product or service described at these websites.
What’s up? Have you met any of your goals this year yet? Are you happy with how you feel, how you look and what your health is like?
If you ARE where you want to be right now – AWESOME! Keep up the good work. If you are NOT there yet a great place to start is with your nutrition. Make a commitment today to change just one bad eating habit and replace it with something better. Just one thing.
If you have some doubts, seek guidance to make sure you are on the right track. Listen up…
When most people think about getting their life in order, it involves plenty of different lifestyle changes big and small. One of the single most important things you can do to enhance your lifestyle, feel better, and look great is to change the way that you eat.
Most Americans don’t get the kind of nutrition that they need to truly be healthy, and taking the time to change the way you eat could change your entire life in numerous ways including:
“¢ More energy
“¢ Improved mood
“¢ Less depression
“¢ Better self-confidence
“¢ Better resistance to disease
“¢ And more
In short, few things can change your life in the same way that healthier eating can. Switching to a healthier nutrition plan that fits your needs could give you the boost to your life that you’ve been missing.
A healthy nutritional plan means something different for different people. The key is to talk to an expert, review your current goals, and see what can be changed to help you reach those goals more effectively. If you’ll pay attention to these basic points you should be able to create a nutrition plan that will change your life. Call me if you need help discussing your nutritional and physical plans!
Start NOW!
Please share with me one bad food habit you are willing to replace today!
Are you over 40 yet? 50? Well maybe none of those. The truth is, whether you are under or over 40 it really doesn’t matter. So don’t stress about it. Instead do something. Make a decision today that can turn your life around so you can be that bodaciously, bold & sexy diva you want to see in the mirror.
More and more people, including celebs, are exercising their power to get on the bandwagon regardless of age to accomplish some amazing personal goals.
In fact, celebrities are leading the way and sending a message that you can look great after the age of 40. Below are just a few.
Susan Sarandon recently turned a lot of heads when she showed up at the SAG awards in a cleavage-baring top that showed off just how amazing the 69-year-old actress still looks. Some were surprised by her boldness while others were just surprised at how great she looks. I definitely wasn’t surprised though – primarily because I can think of countless celebs over 40 who look amazing.
I’m sure you can think of some yourself but a few amazing ones are:
Jennifer Lopez
Naomi Sims
Jennifer Aniston
Halle Berry
Nicole Kidman
Vanessa Williams
Marisa Tomei
The list goes on and on, and that’s just the ladies! It’s also important to understand that the excuse of ‘they have money for personal trainers’ doesn’t work because I believe if you have the ‘will’ there’s a ‘way’ to get the guidance you need to succeed. The reality is that with good nutrition, regular exercise, and a healthy lifestyle you too can look fit fierce &fabulous over forty – and beyond any day and everyday! The reality is also that some people need help with getting started and pushing past their plateaus. If this is you, just ask me now and I’ll show you how to make your body smile today!
Look at these celebs for inspiration and remember that it’s entirely possible to keep yourself healthy and beautiful no matter your age. That mindset is the first step towards a better future.
Who are your celebrity picks that look great over 40?
What are your plans this Easter? Church, dinner or just chilling at home. Have you even thought about it yet? If you have kids or grandchildren well you probably have. If you don’t have that responsibility perhaps its all about you and that’s cool too, but whoever or whatever your plans are don’t let yet another Holiday take you off track from the promises you made yourself at the beginning of the year. Here are some healthier alternatives!
Easter is one of the big holidays on the horizon, and every year stores sell billions of dollars’ worth of chocolate. But let’s face it – chocolate isn’t exactly the best thing you can eat when you’re focusing on your health and wellbeing. As such, it’s worth taking a look at some chocolate alternatives this year. You can still have an Easter treat, but that doesn’t mean it has to be chocolate.
Here are a few of my favorite options when you want a healthier alternative:
“¢ Nut Butter And Fruit – Apples and peanut butter, almond butter and bananas, and plenty of other options are worth considering.
“¢ Fruit Snacks – I’m not talking about those synthetic preservative filled snacks. Look for organic, healthy fruit snacks or check out online recipes to learn how to make your own.
“¢ Carrots and Hummus – Carrots provide plenty of nutrition and hummus is a fitness favorite. Plus, the Easter Bunny loves carrots!
Get creative with your Easter basket this year and focus on healthier alternatives. You’ll feel and look better as a result.
How will you plan your Easter to make it a healthy one? I want to know!
Do you have any plans for St. Patty’s Day? Just asking because I want you to stay on top of your game. What I mean is Holidays are one of those things that usually throw people off track which causes them to lose site of their goals and promises they made to themselves at the beginning of the year. I don’t want that to happen to you! Think about the days ahead but take one healthy step at a time. I can help you with that. Let’s get the party started with some of these healthy options!
Ah, St. Patrick’s Day. While this was once a celebration that was rooted in tradition, today it seems to have become little more than an excuse to get incredibly drunk – at least for many people out there. Add to this the unhealthy meals usually associated with the holiday – greasy Rueben sandwiches, for example, and it becomes clear that those of us who are more concerned with our health need a better way to celebrate.
Instead of celebrating like most of the country this St. Patrick’s Day, consider some other options.
“¢ Take a nature walk. Don’t get green beer – get green scenery by heading out into the spring air.
“¢ If you really want to imbibe, a single glass of wine with dinner should suffice. Sparkling grape juice is a much better alternative, however, and well worth using instead.
St. Patrick’s Day doesn’t have to be about alcohol – and it’s only recently that it became focused on that. This year, choose a different approach.
Name one thing you can do on this St. Patrick’s Day or ANY DAY for that matter to improve your life?
I gotta tell ya one of my philosophies is work hard so you can play hard baby! It’s a good balance don’t ya think? I strive for balance in all I do everyday whether work or play.
With that in mind I decided to pull these pics out to get me going again. Me and my girls at Carnival in Trinidad?
I wanted to go back this year, but it didn’t happen so I’ll let you know later what kind of other mischief I can get myself into this year.
But photos don’t lie. We had a blast!
We all lost weight and lost our minds while we shined on our tans spending more than 8 hours in the sun dancing for 5 days straight in the streets of Trinidad from sun up to sundown. Then we laid sprawled out by the pool in Tobago for 4 days cruising, eating and karaoking. Now that’s what I call keeping the balance while ya play.
Are you keeping a good balance in your life? It doesn’t take much effort to start. The most important thing I want you to remember is don’t sit and do nothing or you’ll find yourself in the same spot next year and the year after. Do you know how much fun you’ve missed out on by then? 🙂
Trust me. Don’t wait to get on board. Your main ticket is good health to enjoy the wealth of the things you love most!
What’s your plan to keep the balance in your life?
I want to know!
Your health is your wealth!
“To keep the body in good health is a duty…otherwise we shall not be able to keep our minds strong and clear” ~ Budda ~
You’ve heard me say before that it’s never too late to get started on changing your life…right? No excuses, not even age should hold you back from reaching your dreams.
Just start from where you are. Begin with what you have and do what little you can do to get your motor warmed and rolling along. That’s how I started and it bloomed into an all new lifestyle that benefits me daily Are you on course to be a great finisher? Take my assessment to find out.
We only get one life, and when it’s gone we aren’t going to have any do-overs. So, without a rewind button it’s important that you take a moment to look at your life, where it’s going, and what you need to change about it. I know this can be difficult, but this ‘future self-assessment’ is one of the keys to making sure you get the most from your life.
There are just a few key steps worth looking at here:
“¢ First, take an honest look at where you are and where your life is going. Are you noticing that you’re gaining weight, feeling tired all the time, sinking into a depression, or just working at a job you can’t stand? Be completely honest and identify the areas that you want to change.
“¢ Now you’ll need to figure out what steps will actually change your life. Do you need to re-enroll in school? Do you need to change your nutrition plan in order to feel better? Exercise more? Make a list of all the steps that will get you back on the path to where you want to be. Call me if you need some help with planning or if you need to know what’s best for your body.
“¢ Finally, stick with it. You’ll face ups and downs, triumphs and setbacks, but the key is that you never give up. The most important thing I want you to remember is don’t be afraid to reach out for help. Never suffer in silence!
We all need support and guidance at some point in our lives. Quite honestly I could NOT have made it without the support I received during some severely rough times. With the right mindset and the right guidance, there is a clear path to a better you out there!
What did your ‘future self-assessment’ say about you? I’d love to hear back.
Love is something that makes the world go around, and it’s important that you find a way to show that special someone just how much you care. But lets face it – sometimes the way we express love isn’t that healthy. Giving junk food or candy isn’t really the best way to promote a healthy lifestyle, and there are plenty of ways you can show someone you care about them while getting creative.
Here are some of the creative ways I’ve found that can mean a lot while still promoting good health.
“¢ Create a wonderful, healthy meal for your loved one. Don’t take them out to a restaurant where you can’t control the content of the meal – make them something yourself.
“¢ Plan a date they’ll love. Something like a bike ride or hike in a new area, or a private session with a local fitness expert could be a great way to spend time with each other while still improving your health.
Let your creativity flow through you and you’ll likely find plenty of other great ways to express your feelings and your love for someone else. The above are just a few examples, but can be a great starting point.
How are you going to show your love to your special someone? Feel free to respond.
Soon approaching is one of my favorite months. It’s the love bug month! That’s what I call it anyway because it’s not only a love Holiday, but it’s my 26th wedding anniversary. Yahoooo! 🙂 So let us all celebrate once again, but this year lets do it smarter and healthier. That said…I’ve laid out some healthier options for you to try out.
Love is in the air. Can you smell it? I know I can. Believe it or not, Valentine’s Day is right around the corner. I look at it not just as a day to celebrate the love between people, but to really celebrate the love that you have for yourself, your physical health and your wellbeing.
With chocolate and candy in abundance, it is more important than ever to stay strong and committed to your health goals. I know it is a challenge, but I’m here to help you. Here are a few tips to keep in mind to help you get through Valentine’s Day and stay focused on a healthier you.
“¢ Skip the chocolates this year. Instead, consider giving that special someone a gym membership, therapeutic massage, or one of my coaching, training or mentoring programs. If you’re on your own, give yourself that gift.
“¢ Remember that no matter what time of year it may be, the foundation of happiness lies within yourself. Don’t get distracted by what the media says you need to be happy – find what makes you happy and focus on it.
“¢ The right restaurant matters more than you know. A romantic dinner is a wonderful way to spend Valentine’s Day, but it’s even better when healthy eating options are available. Or take matters into your own hands and get into the kitchen yourself. There’s no better way to spread the love than with a homemade healthy meal.
“¢ If you do indulge, don’t beat yourself up. Just do something fun and active to honor your body and burn those calories. This could be something as simple as walking around the neighborhood hand-in-hand or showing off your best moves at a dance club.
Valentine’s day is a great way to show someone you care. Making sure you’re still paying attention to good health and nutrition shows that you care even more. My three tips above are great starting points for just that. Happy Valentine’s Day!

How do you plan to spend your Valentine’s Day? Feel free to respond to this email.
What are you doing right now? I would imagine you are in full gear creating an amazing year that you can be proud of soon. If you’re not, you better GET BUSY! That’s what I’m doing!
In fact, Ive put together some of my past events and fun health tips to not only remind me to do better and be better this year, but to help you, guide you, inspire YOU to never give up and keep moving forward towards your dream so you can lead the life you never thought possible. Enjoy!
Create what you want to happen in your life, Dont wait for others to do it for you!
*** Now I want to hear from you!***
What is your plan this year to be your best self?
(Make it realistic so you can brag about it in the coming months)
Now that the new year is here, most of us will spend at least a few minutes reflecting on where we are and where we hope to be. Was your new year’s resolution to be happier or healthier? I’m not surprised. One of the most common new year’s resolutions IS to be healthier and happier. It’s a GREAT goal to work towards. It doesn’t have to be difficult either.
Here are some tips that I know work because I have personally used them. It can make it easier for you to capture that healthier, happier lifestyle and hold onto it for good!
Don’t dwell on the past. Don’t worry about the mistakes you’ve made before – learn from them and use them to find success this time. It can change your life.
Use the internet to build a nutritional plan database. There are plenty of great recipes and meal plans that are delicious and easier to follow than you think. You are also welcome to investigate some of my programs. If you need guidance on the best nutritional choices, I can help you make some that fit your lifestyle.
Avoid the fads – find what works for you.
Be realistic. One of the biggest challenges with finding happiness is that some people set goals that are too lofty to reach. Find realistic goals and focus on reaching them – you can always evolve goals as you reach them.
Like I said, a happier, healthier life isn’t as out of reach as you might think. The tips above are just starting points for moving towards a better mindset and a better you for this year – and beyond. GO FOR IT!! I know you can do it.
What are your New Years Resolutions this year? Leave your reply below.
It’s easy for us to settle into a groove in our life only to find out that it has become more of a rut that we’re trapped in than a groove we’re enjoying. Breaking out of that rut is often a key focus for those as we begin the new year.
I’ve seen it so many times that it doesn’t surprise me anymore. I’ve found that several key steps can have a big impact on your success at giving yourself a fresh start. Some examples include:
Take up a new hobby. A new hobby can be a sport too, such as tennis, rowing or skating. The idea is to include something in your life that’s routinely active or something that keeps you in motion. Whether it’s one that you’ve always wanted to try or something out of the blue, trying a new hobby can help create a path to a fresh you.
Take classes. Local community colleges regularly have classes on everything from painting to electrical engineering. Look at some of the enrichment classes and consider learning something truly new to you.
Join clubs or local organizations that appeal to you. This could be a local yoga club, a dance club or a local movie club that watches a movie each week and meets up afterwards to discuss it. No matter what the path might be, try to find a group where you can include some activity and you can step out of your comfort zone with.
Speaking of which, don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. That’s the key to breaking out of a rut – taking a step you wouldn’t normally take no matter if it is in your professional or personal life.
These tips are just starting points worth considering, but they can form the foundation of success when you’re ready to take your life to a different place.
Breaking out of that rut isn’t always easy, but it is something that you CAN do! So Dare to do it – Dare to be bold and this year you will be able to take your life, health and body to the next level!
