1

Schedule your stress.

From negative equity to unexpected repairs, it’s easy to let financial issues occupy your thoughts around-the-clock. While it may seem productive to worry about them, dwelling on an issue may only intensify feelings of helplessness and keep you from finding creative solutions.

Instead, try allotting a short period of time—try 20 minutes—per day to worry about finances. Don’t fight it or judge yourself—simply recognize your stress. It often helps to write down your thoughts.

2

Emotion versus information.

Everything can feel so personal when dealing with finances, but oftentimes, it’s more of a math problem. The next time you’re faced with an important financial situation—whether a home purchase or what to do about an unexpected bill—remind yourself that the outcome is not in direct correlation to your worth as a person. Separating feelings from fact can go a long way toward reducing your financial stress load.

3

Be a realist.

Sure, paying off your credit cards in five months, doubling your savings and increasing your earning power is a worthy goal—but is it really going to happen? When working on your stress-reducing budget goals, be honest about your daily habits and set a plan that fits your lifestyle. Lofty aims make it too easy to fail and scrap your budget altogether.

4

Break a sweat.

While getting away from your desk during stressful times may seem counterproductive, short bursts of exercise are proven to decrease stress levels and increases mental activity. When you’re dealing with stress, an involuntary “fight or flight” response floods your body with hormones, including adrenaline and cortisol. Designed to protect you from physical harm, this natural response can cause health problems when triggered excessively. Even working up a sweat for five minutes helps counter the negative effects on your body.

5

Share the load.

It’s common to bottle up our problems and try to deal with them on our own. However, there is a great network of professionals out there ready to help.

Your Legacy loan officer is always available to discuss any of mortgage questions—stressful or otherwise. Whether you’re thinking about buying a home or refinancing an existing one, Legacy’s business is built on relationships in the communities where we live, work and play. Don’t hesitate to call.