The first question you probably have is why is Pfiff talking about wealth? She is focused on health. Two words my wise friend: financial freedom. As a vulva owner (thank you, Dr. Emily for this language!!), your education and cultural narratives most likely did not include the importance of managing your finances and being in charge of your budget, investments, and financial portfolio. It is possible you were told not to talk about money (rude!), that you are not smart enough to manage investments or a portfolio (untrue!), or that your place was to manage the household budget, and anything beyond that was not your concern (your money, your concern!).

I’m here to tell you that you should talk about money. I followed those rules when I first moved to New York. Very quickly I learned they kept me underpaid, undervalued, AND that penis owners talk about money all day long! It’s not rude for them, it is expected. This is not a comparison where we beat our chests and crow about our success. This is an information-sharing and support activity. If you don’t know what anyone else in a similar role is paid, how do you know your value and worth? If you don’t know what types of non-monetary compensation are being negotiated at the company you work for how will you know what to ask for? You are your own best advocate, fact-finder, and champion.

So, how does this tie into health?  46% of women say that money stress negatively impacts their mental health. A reminder of the negative impacts of stress: anxiety, depression, fatigue, insomnia, headache, chest pain, muscle tension, upset stomach, sleep problems, weakened immune system, lack of motivation, memory problems, decreased libido, more susceptible to addictive behaviors and the list goes on. Financial stress is bad for your health. Financial freedom - having the cash, savings, and investments to take care of yourself and your family - lowers your stress levels and allows you to spend money on health-supportive activities like therapy, massage, out-of-network medical support, time savers, the quality of food you like to eat, help with the house or kids so you can take care of yourself.

Don’t feel confident in the money space? Read, listen, and watch leaders like Dominique Broadway or Vivian Tu who runs Your Rich BFF. Hire a professional. Crazy right, you don’t cut your own hair, do you?? I hired my own financial advisor after my divorce and it was the best way to set myself up for financial success. I got a recommendation from my girlfriend (talk about money!) and they helped me set up everything I needed to roll over accounts and prepare for the future. We have quarterly calls. They answer my questions about credit cards, crypto, vacation planning, retirement planning, future kid financial planning, and anything else I have questions about. The bottom line is finances are complicated and can be a source of stress. Taking charge of your finances can build confidence, lower your stress levels, and help you feel good now.

Ready to make some financial changes? Download my Habit Building Guide. All change starts with small changes that turn into habits. Whether it’s changing how you manage your money or how you eat, small, incremental changes last for the long run.