Emerging As Butterflies - How to Embrace Transformation

“We delight in the beauty of the butterfly, but rarely admit the changes it has gone through to achieve that beauty" - Maya Angelou

Insights from a Certified Money Coach:

Hello ladies. Today, let’s talk about something truly inspiring: metamorphosis.

When we think about evolving and changing - which as women we absolutely reserve the right to do, many times over throughout our lives - the symbol of the butterfly often comes to mind. It’s kind of a classic, isn't it? Butterflies represent transformation, growth, and beauty - an apt metaphor for our own journeys as women, especially in how we handle our finances.

You see, here in sunny New South Wales, Australia, spring has sprung early for me, this year. It’s the middle of August, and I’m already feeling the warmth of the sun, seeing the blue skies, and witnessing the extraordinary flowers in my garden just bursting out from their winter slumber. As a solar-powered human, this early change is a welcome shift from winter - which usually seems to drag well past its allotted time in the calendar. This morning, I found myself sitting in the courtyard, journalling with a cup of tea, charging up in the sunshine. A purring cat on one side and a cheeky breeze playing havoc with the pages of my notebook on the other. And as I sat there, I was overwhelmed with joy to see just how many beautiful butterflies had emerged - also ahead of schedule this year. This got me thinking about our own growth and metamorphosis as women, particularly in terms of how we approach our financial lives.

The Necessity of Growth and Change

Part of the fundamental essence of life is that we must evolve and grow. Striving toward and embracing opportunities that test us. Because, if we’re not expanding and changing, we’re stagnating - and where’s the joy in that? Growth allows us to experience those golden, shining moments that galvanise us. We have this one incredible life, and our focus should be on constant evolution - uncovering more about our true nature, gaining wisdom, and achieving a higher perspective. This also includes improving our relationship with money, becoming more abundant, and taking control of our financial decisions.

As we pursue this awareness, we also really have to embrace the changes that come with the different seasons of our lives. Sometimes that change is painful, sometimes it's incredibly unpleasant, sometimes we're going through it thinking: “Oh my goodness this is just horrendous, will it ever end?!” But ultimately that pain is a signal or a symptom of growth. That pain that we experience actually shows us that we are stretching and becoming something different, a refined version of ourselves.

Can you relate? Have you experienced this before?

Embracing the Unexpected

As I watched those butterflies in the garden today, I realised that they had emerged early, much like how unexpected changes can appear in our lives. Logically, those butterflies should still be in their cocoons, but nature had other plans. The combination of early sunshine, warm temperatures, and longer days was enough to coax them out ahead of schedule.

Similarly, life has a way of throwing us curveballs when we least expect them. A surprise promotion, a particularly successful launch, a random strategic alliance that brings you a flood of new clients… these kinds of financial windfalls are always welcome strangers. We greet and embrace them with excitement and enthusiasm. But what about the setbacks…? The event you don’t see coming that cuts you off at the knees, leaving us feeling blindsided and overwhelmed. The key is to recognise that change is inevitable, and we must be prepared to navigate it with ease and grace - aka resilience.

Building a Resilient Financial Foundation

This is where having a solid relationship with money becomes crucial. Being very intentional about your money story, setting crystal clear financial goals, and being unshakeably sure about your values are the essential components of building a resilient financial foundation. We can’t foresee every twist and turn that life will throw our way. What we do know is that ups and downs are coming. They are predictably unpredictable, you might say… That’s precisely why the forward looking woman prepares for them by being proactive in her financial planning.

As professional women, it’s vital that we approach our financial lives with the same level of care and intention that we apply to our careers. Unfortunately, too many women still believe that a man is a financial plan. This outdated mindset can leave us vulnerable in the face of life’s unexpected challenges. Whether it’s divorce, widowhood, or a spouse’s illness or unemployment, we must be able to stand on our own two feet as financially savvy women.

Actionable Steps to Redesign Your Relationship with Money

I could talk about the importance of financial resilience all day long, but I’m sure you’ve detected that this is my passion… And if you’re read this far, then I’m sure you’ll appreciate some actionable steps you can take to start redesigning your relationship with money. These steps can help you build a strong financial foundation that help you tackle whatever life throws your way without losing your crown.

1. Assess Your Current Financial Situation

Take stock of your current financial situation. What are your assets, liabilities, income, and expenses? Understanding where you stand financially is the first step in taking control of your money.

My “Financial Wellbeing Check-Up” can really help with this - request a copy here.

2. Clarify Your Financial Goals

Identify your short-term, medium-term, and long-term financial goals. Be specific about what you want to achieve and set realistic timelines for each goal.

My free “Map the Gap” goal setting workbook is fantastic for anyone who isn’t in the habit of making and following through on financial goals - so grab your free copy here.

3. Align Your Goals with Your Values

Reflect on your core values and how they align with your financial goals. Are your spending habits in line with what truly matters to you? If not, it’s time to make some adjustments.

4. Create a Budget That Works for You

Develop a budget that reflects your goals and values. Track your spending and make sure you’re allocating your resources in a way that supports your financial objectives.

5. Build an Emergency Fund

Life is full of surprises, so it’s essential to have an emergency fund in place. Aim to save at least three to six months’ worth of living expenses to protect yourself from unexpected financial setbacks.

6. Invest in Your Financial Education

Knowledge is power when it comes to money. Take the time to educate yourself on financial topics that are relevant to your goals. This could include reading books, attending workshops, or working with a Certified Money Coach.

7. Practice Financial Self-Compassion

It’s easy to be hard on yourself when it comes to money, especially if you’ve made mistakes in the past. Practice self-compassion by acknowledging that everyone makes mistakes and focusing on the progress you’ve made.

8. Regularly Review and Adjust Your Plan

Your financial situation and goals may change over time, so it’s important to regularly review and adjust your plan as needed. This will help you stay on track and ensure that your financial strategy continues to align with your evolving needs.

9. Surround Yourself with Support

You don’t have to go through this journey alone. Surround yourself with a supportive community of like-minded women who are also working to improve their financial lives. Consider working with a Certified Money Coach who can provide guidance and accountability.

10. Celebrate Your Wins

Don’t forget to celebrate your successes along the way. Each step you take towards financial empowerment is a victory, and it’s important to acknowledge and celebrate your progress.

The Journey to Financial Empowerment

Redesigning your relationship with money is a journey, not a destination. It requires ongoing commitment, self-reflection and a willingness to embrace change. But the rewards are well worth the effort. As you begin to take control, trust yourself and make financial decisions without fear, you’ll find yourself feeling more confident, empowered and in charge of your destiny.

Remember, you don’t have to do this alone. If you’re ready to dive deeper into your money story and make lasting changes, I’m here to help. As a Certified Money Coach, I’ve guided countless women through their own financial transformations, into a more beautiful butterfly than they ever thought possible. I’m passionate about helping you achieve the same.

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PS: If you’re ready to totally rewrite your relationship with money and emerge as a fearless and empowered woman in control of her financial future, then let's meet up for a virtual cup of tea! You can book a call by clicking here. My Money Mindshift 90-Day Reset is designed to guide you through this transformative process. Let’s talk about how this coaching experience can support you in achieving your financial goals and creating the life you desire.