Being a single mom is tough. You’re trying to juggle a full-time job, endless parenting duties, keeping the house from collapsing in on itself, and still squeezing in quality time with your kids—all while praying for a few minutes of real rest. And let’s not forget the Herculean task of getting a grip on your finances. For me, the idea of adding that to the list felt utterly unthinkable.
I used to just shove it all under the rug. My kids were fed, we had a roof over our heads, and clothes on our backs. So, what was the problem? Right? Wrong.
The real issue was that I was stuck in a never-ending cycle of paycheck-to-paycheck living, drowning in stress and anxiety about whether I could cover the next bill, or—heaven forbid—an unexpected emergency. (Quick side note: if you haven’t noticed, “unexpected” emergencies always happen. They should really be called “guaranteed” emergencies.)
I knew all the textbook stuff: how to pay off debt, how to save, how to plan for the future. I wanted to do those things, but for some reason, it wasn’t happening. So what was the deal?
The problem was that I wasn’t emotionally connected to the process.
That’s when I realized I needed to dig deep to find my “why.” Why do I want to change how I manage money? Why do I want to become debt-free? Why do I need an emergency fund? And—let’s be real—why does owning a home or saving for my kids’ college matter so much?
I thought those answers should be easy. But at first? Not so much. I had to dig deep, peel back some layers, and find a reason that was so powerful, so personal, that it moved me to tears. Otherwise, these goals would just be another set of pipe dreams that never got off the ground.
So, I kept asking “why”—and this is what I discovered.
The Heart Behind My Money Journey: My “Why”
I want to reduce stress and anxiety. I want to feel peace knowing I can cover the inevitable costs that life throws my way. I want my kids to grow up with financial freedom—not burdened by worry. I want to live in a home that’s mine, where we can make memories for years to come. I want to create a future where my family is financially secure, a legacy that outlives me.
Those aren’t just goals; those are my real reasons for changing. I know that if I sacrifice now, just for a little while, I can create a secure, peaceful future for my family—one that will last for generations.
The Power of “Why” in Financial Change
So, what if the secret to financial transformation isn’t just about tweaking your budget, but about uncovering the deep, emotional reason behind why you want to change? Identifying your “why” is everything. We often think we know why we want to improve our finances—more money, less debt, early retirement—but when we dig deeper, we uncover something much more meaningful, something that can drive us toward lasting change.
How You Can Discover Your Own “Why”
- Start with the obvious: Why do you want to improve your finances? Is it to pay off debt? Save more? Retire early?
- Ask “Why?” 3-5 times: Keep asking “Why?” after each answer until you hit an emotional chord. If you don’t feel something when you answer, go deeper.
- Reflect on your core values: What matters most to you? Security? Family? Freedom? Legacy? Finding that core value can clarify your deeper “why.”
- Identify the emotional trigger: What feeling makes this change meaningful to you? Is it peace of mind? The pride in knowing you’re making smart choices?
- Clarify your vision: Once you’ve found your emotional “why,” paint a picture of what achieving it will look like. How will it change your life? How will it align with your values?
Crafting Your Personal Mission Statement
Once you’ve discovered your “why,” write it down. Make it official with a personal mission statement. This will be your North Star—your guide as you walk through your financial journey. When you’re tired or discouraged (because let’s face it, there will be moments like that), your mission statement will remind you why you’re doing this. Post it where you will see it daily. Because some days, you’re going to need a reminder to fight the good fight.
A Path to a Motivated Financial Future
Finding your “why” might take some time. And that’s okay. But trust me, it’s worth it for long-term success. By uncovering your “why,” you’re not just managing your money—you’re crafting a life that aligns with your deepest values. And that’s a financial transformation worth fighting for. If you’ve dug deep and identified your “why,” I’d love to hear about it. Share your mission statement in the comments, and together, let’s support one another in creating a future that matters.
My Personal Mission Statement
I strive to build a life of financial security and peace—where stress and worry are replaced by confidence and preparedness. I aim to create a foundation that can withstand life’s inevitable challenges with resilience and grace. I want to give my children the freedom and tools to chase their dreams without financial burden. I am committed to building a legacy that empowers my family to thrive, grow, and make lasting memories for generations to come. Through intentional planning and responsible stewardship, I will protect my future while paving the way for my family’s success, even long after I’m gone.
“Fight the good fight of faith.
Take hold of the eternal life to which
you were called.”
1 Timothy 6:12