Did you know that your brain is one of the most powerful muscles in your body ?

In fact, your brain has the ability to grow stronger with deliberate action and intentional practice. 

The result ? You can train your brain to improve your financial intelligence and boost your economic success. Maybe you have a moment where you are worried about money or think about how much money you have in savings for retirement.

Maybe it’s because you have read some news stories about economic crises or stock market dips. Perhaps you’ve recently experienced a financial hit from an unexpected expense like a car breakdown or medical bill. 

Or maybe this is not the first time something like this has happened to you… 

Whatever the case, there is no denying that money remains a top stressor for many people today. 

Financial anxiety is real, and it can creep up on anyone at any time! However, these worries won’t last forever...

What does having good financial intelligence mean?

Having financial intelligence is similar to having great emotional intelligence (EQ). Simply put, it means having the ability to manage your money, recognize your financial patterns, and make positive adjustments to improve your money habits. 

If you are a financially intelligent person, you’re able to make sound financial decisions, live within your means, and effectively manage your debt. 

Financial intelligence also means that you are able to draw from your knowledge and experience when making decisions related to your money.

How does your brain influence your money habits?

Your brain contains neural pathways that have been programmed by your past experiences and actions. 

Our brain patterns are the result of years of thoughts and actions that have been programmed into our neural circuitry. What we do today will affect our brain patterns and our money habits moving forward. 

For example, if you feel stressed or anxious about your money, this will impact your brain to create fear-based patterns that could be hard to break. 

On the other hand, if you take action to increase your financial knowledge, this will impact your brain to create learning-based patterns that can be strengthened over time.

Strategies to grow your economic intelligence and make more money

• Track your money : The first step to improving your financial habits is to track your money. Start tracking your spending and saving habits, and you’ll gain insights that will help you make informed decisions and improve your financial situation. 
• Commit to a monthly spending review. 
• Commit to a small saving strategy. 
• Commit to paying yourself first. 
• Take time to reflect on what matters most to you, and why.