Women & family commitments

Today’s economic climate has added more hardships to the already difficult situation facing women, especially those with children and dependents. The threat of losing one’s job; uncertainty of a salary increase; rise in food prices; increased work load, longer work hours and possible threat to health, among other related factors, can easily lead to hopelessness and despair about the future. This downturn has me very concerned about the potential negative effects on family life and how best as a Life and Financial coach I can give hope and guidance to others. I believe that women are very strong and resourceful and as such, if we share experiences, we can develop innovative strategies to support each other through these challenging times.

Below are some practical tools to help you prepare for any financial threats and to meet your family commitments.

• Invite members of your household (young and old) to gather in a relaxed atmosphere, to discuss the effects of the present economic situation on your family’s future and quality of life.

• Decide on a time frame for this meeting and get a consensus from everyone present, to disconnect with their mobiles during this time and to show respect for each other’s views.

• Have a volunteer take notes and allocate a speaking time limit per person.

• Lead the discussion by sharing details of your family’s financial situation, breaking down the cost of running the home, any challenges being experienced and your future goals for the family.

• Allow each family member, whether working or not, to share their goals and aspirations, encouraging them to be creative, practical and realistic.

• After discussion, summarise the findings and design a realistic step by step plan with each family member having a role to play towards its success.

• Keep current with what is happening with the economy and the global market.

• Connect with like-minded friends or extended family members and discuss joint cost cutting measures.

• Have follow up meetings to discuss your progress, make adjustments, celebrate achievements and motivate each other along the way.

• Keep the faith and don’t focus on the money but on the future you envision for yourself and your family.

I urge you to start taking action by following these steps towards a better life and financial future.

Jennifer Gibbons-Joseph is a Certified Life Empowerment and Financial Coach of Conec Professional Life Coaching Services Ltd. You’re welcome to contact her by emailing Jennifer@ coneccoaching.com or phone 766 2148/271- 5020 and she’ll be happy to help you plan for a successful future