GREENSBORO, N.C. — GREENSBORO, N.C. — A new month means a new chance -- or fresh start -- to get finances in order, with the new year already a quarter gone.
Financial Literacy Month this April happens at a prime time to make short-term financial goals into money-making dreams come true.
"You have 30 days to move forward with your finances. If you don't know where to start, I want to share three areas to look at and you can go from there," said financial literacy author Ja'Net Adams of Debt Sucks University.
Dream on paper
Adams is a big proponent of writing down financial objectives, because she understands the value of a visual cue.
"Controlling your money becomes a lot easier when you have dreams that you want to become reality. This month, take the time to write down your dreams. Dreams are what you would do, where you would go, who would you help if money wasn't an issue. The dreams you write down will be your motivation to control your finances throughout the rest of the year," Adams emphasized.
Count your money
Writing down dreams involves writing down the reality -- tracking every income and spending stream.
"Count every penny you have going in and going out. Having this knowledge will help you make the decision on whether you need to cut back and save money or make more money to ensure that you have the money for your dreams to become reality. Dreams take money, so you have to count the cost," Adams said.
Develop a health strategy
She also strongly suggested consumers work to make health a priority this month, as health largely affects wealth.
"This month, schedule your doctor and dentist appointments, so you can stay on top of your health. Staying on top of your health will keep you out of the hospital and off expensive medication. Also, develop a workout schedule and healthier eating options. Always remember health is wealth," she concluded.