Retirement, Babies, Property?!? – Episode Insider

Well, if any of the title things resonate with you, it probably means you are in your 30s. Like Joe and me.

And if you are like Joe and me, then you have no GD clue what you are supposed to be doing to win at this thing called “adulthood.”

To be honest, I am not sure winning is the goal, although a lot of our friends seem to be Olympic style–taking all of the medals–take no prisoners–winning at it.

However, after the episode, I was approached by a few of my friends who expressed that they, too, have no clue how to prepare!

My best friend Annie who has an amazing job, and makes killer money confessed to me that she doesn’t have much saved for retirement even though she has a “money saving” attitude.

This leads me to ask: Did someone forget to tell us the answers?

I mean I read some great books in school, and learned about Genghis Khan; I even brought home a fake baby only to have it cry the whole time (that and the wrath of my grandma were enough for me to know not to get pregnant) but no one talked to me about money.

And I mean real money–not how much does it cost if Suzie buys 3 daffodils? I’m talking about saving for your future, backyard (maybe a fireplace), Suzie Orman style, money.

Now, don’t get me wrong, I’m on top of it. I pay my rent, bills, student loan. I have a life insurance policy, no credit card debt, and still find time for a manicure–so I am not a total disaster. And in many ways, this is America so pull yourself up by your boot straps and deal, right? But, I often don’t know where to start. It’s too overwhelming and then I need a nap.

Somewhere along the way I think we forgot about the practical. 

Along with making a snowflake Christmas card for my mom, and playing kickball at recess, someone should’ve taught me in school about forms, retirement, and what it really means to take out a student loan.

I’m all about ideals and the you can do anything attitude. But I am also about real talk. And I think it’s something we need in our schools.

We need the next generation to dream the impossible dream, but we also need them ready and capable to take care of themselves, financially.

I also figure if all else fails, Joe’s idea about all-inclusive vacations and jail doesn’t sound so bad. Watch the episode if you missed it. It really is a must. 

Also, my mother called me this morning to inform me that my life insurance policy covers death expenses, as well as extra money to leave behind to your beneficiary. And then she told me she was going to church to pray for me. So, there ya’ have it.

What do you guys think about financial management (I totally just made up that title) being taught in schools? Let me know.

See ya’ next time 😉