Mount Pleasant Magazine March/April 2021

56 www. ReadMPM. com | www. VOICE forRea l Es tate. com | www.MountPl easantBu i lder s . com also have clients come up with some goals that are fun and exciting to get them inspired to actually save money.” Beware online spending. You may not be used to holding onto the money you have left over after paying essential expenses and not immediately spending it on nonessential items, especially if you’re just beginning to save. It’s often much easier to lose track of spending with a credit card or online than it is to stick with cash. Phillips shared that eliminating small, everyday expenses can make a major change in your spending habits. “In today’s world, so many people have subscriptions, and it’s so easy just to plug in your credit card and your debit card information. If you actually sit down to look at your spending, you will find that there are many different ways that you could save. If you were to forgo buying a $5 latte once a week for 52 weeks, you could save money by making it at home instead.” Reassess goals often. Once you’ve analyzed your finances and have a solid savings plan, remember to keep things fluid. Saving money if you’re single looks different from saving if you have a spouse, which also looks different from saving if you have children. There are many transitions that can have an impact on your finances, and you’ll have to periodically reevaluate your savings plans and goals. “Most of your savings plan will evolve with you, and that’s why you should constantly be reviewing your plan,” said Phillips. “You should do it at least annually because people’s goals change, and what’s relevant to a 20-year-old is not going to be relevant to a 40-year-old.” Taking control of your finances can seem like a daunting task, but the best time to get started is right now. You can build a savings account over time, including accumulating interest, and work with a financial advisor to better understand your cash flow and how you can utilize your money to fit your needs. “It’s easier to do the right thing when you’re younger,” admitted Ellisor. “There’s less pressure on the total percentage that you have to save. The earlier you start, the easier it is to achieve things long-term. If you’re close to retirement, then whatever you’ve done over the past 55 or 60 years, you’re pretty set in how much you have to work with. Now, you just have to figure out how to take the amount and maximize it.” finances EXCEPTIONAL DENTISTRY EXCEPTIONAL CARE With over 30 years of clinical dental experience and hundreds of hours of advanced training, Dr. Gregory blends technical excellence with an artist’s touch. If you desire personalized care from your dental professionals, in a spa-like environment dedicated to your comfort, contact our office today! Virginia L. Gregory , D . M . D ., LLC and Associates General and Cosmetic Dentistry VirginiaGregory.com New patient offers on website. (843) 884-8884 434 W. Coleman Blvd., Mt. Pleasant Call today to experience exceptional dentistry at our dental spa near Shem Creek.