where to SHOP

White Cedar Studio 916 Hammond Ave., Superior, WI whitecedarstudio.com

Bender’s Shoes 2116 Maple Grove Rd. bendersshoes.com

Kat’s Eyes Optical 1016 Woodland Ave katseyesoptical.com

By Annie Lepper

It’s 3 a.m. and you’re stressing about money. . .again. We’ve all had an impulse purchase we’ve regretted or something we’ve forgotten to take into account when figuring out the budget for the month. But how can you cope with the deeper, darker feeling like you’re failing with your finances?

Recognizing It

Remember, financial anxiety is just a feeling. Though it may be valid, it isn’t an insurmountable challenge. Most of the time, a little mindfulness and confidence is all you need to help you turn your feeling of helplessness into a situation you can manage. Granted, it’s easier said than done. With social media pressures presenting picture-perfect lifestyles and our own perceptions of what people have and how they afford it all, it can be an additional burden.

Speaking of Perception

Above all else, money is simply a tool. It’s easy to forget that when we wrap so many other emotions and contexts around it. Strip away the hype around money and it’s easier to cope. Think very seriously about money, budgeting, finances, financial goals, etc. Does it freak you out? If you have a fear-based