Quick Financial Tips for Women to Build Financial Success

When providing financial advice, I often find myself answering these common questions: “What would you do if it were your mother? Your daughter? Your family?”

These are sometimes hard questions to answer, depending on the context of the conversation. But when it comes to the well being of my loved ones, it is important to prioritize financial management and planning, no matter what age or stage of life.

So for all the mothers, daughters and loved ones who are women in my life and yours, below I’ve outlined what I am always teaching my own daughters, Lizzie and Caroline, to understand about money management - and what I believe could help any woman teach other women and girls about financial responsibilities.

NEED VS WANT: Make smart decisions with money, rather than emotional ones (always ask yourself: Do I NEED this or do I WANT it?).

PAY YOURSELF FIRST: The first bill you should pay every month is to a savings account. Save a set percentage of your income (start with 10%) each month.

GIVE BACK: Give to those less fortunate than you, even if it hurts a little. Just do not go beyond your means. Trust me…it will feel great!

TREAT YOURSELF: Treat yourself, within reason, every once in a while. Depriving yourself is not healthy. Enjoy the fruits of your labor.

PLAN TO LIVE - LONGER: In general, women live longer than men, so never stop saving and understand that women ultimately need to save approximately 25% more than men. Start that process now.

NEVER STOP LEARNING: Failing does NOT make you a failure. Failing helps us all to learn. Making minor financial mistakes will teach you lessons that will help with bigger financial decisions in the future.

I know for me, there are so many important life lessons the women in my life have taught me - compassion, humility, perseverance, bravery and leadership, to name a few. I hope that this financial wisdom is one attribute I can add to the list of contributions as it relates to money management and planning for women and for all.

At Eaton Financial Group, we believe that values matter and we live by ours every day: Live Well - Work Hard - Give Generously. To discuss this article or a financial topic of your concern/interest, contact us for a FREE cup of coffee (at our office or virtually), so we may offer a second (or first) opinion on your situation.

Eaton Financial Group is a financial advisory firm focused on the best interests of their family of clients. Douglas J. Eaton, CIO of Eaton Financial Group, is an Accredited Investment Fiduciary, CDFA. Outside of work, Doug is first a husband and father. He also focuses on serving his community in the following roles: Board of Directors in the Coral Springs Coconut Creek Regional Chamber of Commerce, President of the Parkland Chamber of Commerce, mentor to DECA students, Race Director for the RUN 4 BEIGEL and volunteer for several other community-based organizations.

MAY

TUESDAY, MAY 3

MIAMI MARLINS V. ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS

6:40PM. LoanDepot Park, Miami. www.ticketmaster.com.

WEDNESDAY - SUNDAY, MAY 4 - 15

PRETTY WOMAN: THE MUSICAL

SHOWTIMES VARY. Au-Rene Theater Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Ft. Lauderdale. www.ticketmaster.com.

THURSDAY, MAY 5

NATIONAL DAY OF PRAYER

7:00PM. The Clergy Coalition of Coral Springs and Parkland, in partnership with the Coral Springs Multi-Cultural Advisory Committee, will honor and celebrate Annual National Day of Prayer. A designated youth representative from each congregation will deliver a brief prayer on behalf of their religious community focused on our leaders, nation and world peace. Located at Coral Springs Center for the Arts (2855 Coral Springs Drive).

FRIDAY - SUNDAY, MAY 6 - 8

FORMULA 1 MIAMI GRAND PRIX

ALL DAY. Miami International Autodrome, Miami Gardens. www.ticketmaster.com.

FRIDAY, MAY 6

BITES-N-SIPS

5:30PM- 9:30PM. Residents can travel to a galaxy far, far away (without leaving Coral Springs) at this special, themed Bites-NSips on Friday, May 6. The event will feature an array of food trucks, cocktail stations, vendors, kid-friendly activities, and music. Kids can also create an “out-of-this-world” Mother’s Day card for the special women in their life. Adult beverages will also be available for purchase. Parking is free at the City Hall garage. For more information, visit CoralSprings.org/bitesnsips. Located at City Hall Lawn 9500 W. Sample Road.

FRIDAY, MAY 6

HEROES OF HIP HOP: PRINCESS AND THE FROG

7:00PM. Rose & Alfred Miniaci Performing Arts Center, Ft. Lauderdale. www.ticketmaster.com.

FRIDAY & SATURDAY, MAY 6 & 7 SATURDAY, MAY 7

MAYOR’S CHESS CHALLENGE

12:00PM- 2:00PM. Families and students of all ages are invited to join Mayor Scott Brook along with elected officials and community leaders, for a game of chess. This is a free, open play event, so registration is not necessary. Located at Sartory Hall 10150 NW 29th Street.

SATURDAY, MAY 7

EATS ‘N BEATS

7:00PM-9:00PM. The City of Parkland invites you to come out and enjoy some fresh food and live music at the Pine Trails Amphitheatre. Bring out a blanket or a lawn chair and gather at the Great Lawn to hear musical performances by Private Stock. www.cityofparkland.org/eb.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 11

FAMILY FUN NIGHT

6:00PM-8:00PM. Family Fun Night has resumed every second Wednesday of the month at the Coral Springs Gymnasium. The event is meant to bring the community together, providing a fun and interactive way for residents and guests to engage with one another. Participants will enjoy board games, ping pong tables, arts and crafts, bingo and much more during Family Fun Night. No registration is required to attend, and participation is free of charge. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Located at the Coral Springs Gymnasium 2501 Coral Springs Drive.

WEDNESDAY & THURSDAY, MAY 11 & 12

SEUSSICAL, JR.

8:00PM SHOWS. Amaturo Theater Broward Center for the Performing Arts, Ft. Lauderdale. www.ticketmaster.com.

SATURDAY, MAY 14

ARTVENTURES

2:00PM-3:00PM. Join the Coral Springs Museum of Art for ARTventures Family Fun Day every second Saturday of the month. Together families will enhance their education in arts and culture with creative activities such as storytelling, music, and art production. ARTventures starts with a tour of the current exhibit and culminates with a fun and engaging activity for the whole family. Learn more at CoralSpringsMuseum.org . Located at the Coral Springs Museum of Art (2855A Coral Springs Drive)

THURSDAY, MAY 19

JUICE BOX JAM

10:00AM-12:00PM. This parent and me program designed for toddlers ages 1 to 4 years old takes place at the Coral Springs Gymnasium. Participants will enjoy an indoor play area while parents meet and interact with other parents. Upon entry, each toddler will receive a juice box and snack. No registration, firstcome, first-served basis. Located at the Coral Springs Gymnasium 2501 Coral Springs Drive.

SATURDAY, MAY 21

BOOKS, BUCKS & BACKPACKS

10:00AM-1:00PM. Junior Achievement of South Florida will be hosting a FREE fun-filled day of summer activities, booths with giveaways, games, books and backpacks, and so much more! Books, Bucks and Backpacks is a community event where registered families come to JA World to successfully learn how to prepare for summer with safety tips, academic retention and financial literacy education. FREE Backpack, Giveaways & FUN Activities. Plus take home 7 days of Meals & Snacks! Please visit www.JASouthFlorida.org/BooksBucksBackpacks to register. (Must register online to be guaranteed backpacks and giveaways) : JA World Huizenga Center at the Lillian S. Wells Pavilion, 1130 Coconut Creek Blvd., Coconut Creek 33066.

SATURDAY, MAY 21

HOMES FUR DOGS EXPO

9:00AM-12:00PM. Bring out your dog(s) to Barkland Dog Park and enjoy a trip through our dog park with local pet vendors, music, caricature art, contests and much more. More importantly, come support local adoption agencies and maybe give a dog a forever home. Leashes are required to enter. www.cityofparkland.org/homesfurdogs.

SATURDAY, MAY 21

KING OF CHESS TOURNAMENT

9:00AM .The 2nd Annual King of Coral Springs Chess tournament will take place on Saturday, May 21 at 9 a.m. Held in partnership with the National Scholastic Chess Foundation, the tournament will be held at the Coral Springs Gymnasium. For more information, visit CoralSprings.org/events. Located at the Coral Springs Charter School (3205 N University Drive.

SUNDAY, MAY 22

DROWNING PREVENTION EVENT

Join the Coral Springs Fire Department for an entertaining and educational experience for families of all ages! Participate in water safety activities, learn about resources to help make your home water-safe and more! For more information, visit CoralSprings. org/events. Located at the Coral Springs Aquatic Complex 12441 Royal Palm Blvd.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 26

PAUL MCCARTNEY GOT BACK

8:00PM. Hard Rock Live, Hollywood. www.ticketmaster.com.

SUNDAY, MAY 29

MEMORIAL DAY CELEBRATION

5:30PM-7:30PM. Join us at the Pine Trails Amphitheatre as we take a moment to remember and honor those that have served in our armed forces. The event will feature speakers, food trucks, presentation of the memorial wreath, and more. www.cityofparkland.org/memorial.