Navigating the world of personal finance can be a challenge for anyone, but for individuals who are neurodivergent, such as those with autism, ADHD, or other cognitive differences, it can present additional complexities. A lot of us suffer from some sort of executive dysfunction which can make it difficult for us to set and follow-through on long term goals. This is be true as well for financial literacy and health. We are conditioned to want the dopamine hit and it comes down to how fast we can get the reward.
However, with the right strategies and, more importantly, the right mindset, creating money goals for neurodivergent brain, it can lead to greater financial empowerment. In this blog post, we will explore practical tips and considerations to help neurodivergent individuals develop effective money goals and work towards financial success.
1. Understand Your Unique Financial Profile: To create meaningful money goals, it’s crucial to understand your unique financial profile. Take the time to evaluate your strengths, challenges, and personal preferences related to money management. Consider factors such as attention to detail, impulse control, and tolerance for financial risk. Use this self-awareness to shape your money goals accordingly.
2. Break Down Goals into Small, Manageable Steps: When we look at our goals we, as neurodivergents, often have difficulty into breaking down the goals into smaller steps. At my talks, I explain as having to work backwards. For example if the goal is to buy a car, utilize the SMART Goals approach to break the goals down into specific weekly or monthly savings targets.
This approach allows for a clearer focus, reduces overwhelm, and promotes a sense of accomplishment.
3. Utilize Visual Aids and Organizational Tools: Visual aids and organizational tools can be valuable allies when creating and managing money goals. Consider using charts, graphs, or digital apps to track your progress, visualize your financial journey, and stay organized. These visual cues can help with planning, task management, and maintaining motivation.
4. Establish Clear and Concrete Goals: As neurodivergents, we often thrive when goals are expressed in clear and concrete terms. Instead of vague aspirations like “save more money,” set specific, measurable objectives like “save 10% of my monthly income.” This level of clarity provides a tangible target and allows for better monitoring and evaluation of progress.
5. Leverage Special Interests and Skillsets: We often possess unique interests and skillsets that can be harnessed to make meaningful financial progress. Identify activities or work related to your strengths, passions, or areas of expertise. This can serve as a foundation for creating income-generating opportunities, side gigs, or entrepreneurial endeavors. If you like to write perhaps start a blog! **Hint hint**
6. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to seek support in your money management journey. Reach out to trusted friends, family, or financial professionals who can provide guidance, advice, or practical assistance. Support networks can offer a source of encouragement, accountability, and various perspectives, helping you remain motivated and overcome challenges. There may even be online social groups that can offer support too.
7. Practice Self-Care and Address Sensory Considerations: Recognize the impact of sensory considerations on your financial well-being. We often have specific sensitivities especially to our emotions, that can negatively affect our spending habits or financial decision making. For example, I hold a lot of anger toward myself for not starting my savings journey sooner which puts me in a negative thought cycle where I spend more money to make myself feel better. To combat this, I prioritize self-care techniques that help manage stress, anxiety, or sensory overload. For example, when listening to a financial audiobook, I walk to calm my frustration. When I am working on my budgets, I make sure that I am comfortable, happy, relaxed and engaged.
Creating money goals from a neurodivergent perspective is a powerful step towards financial empowerment. By understanding your unique strengths, utilizing visual aids, breaking down goals, and seeking support, you can work towards a more secure financial future. Remember that your journey is personal, and what works for one individual may not work for another. Embrace your neurodivergent traits, leverage your strengths, and celebrate each milestone on your path to financial success.