As young professionals, we often find ourselves in the hustle and bustle, balancing careers, family, businesses, and personal growth. But one thing that often gets pushed aside is financial strategy. How do we not just work, but make our money work for us?
The recent Luncheon & Learn with Alicia Childress hosted by YPCV reminded me of the importance of slowing down and making intentional money moves. It’s not just about earning, it’s about investing in ourselves, our businesses, and our futures.

Why This Matters
For me, this seminar came at the perfect time. I’m launching Talks with Terri Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, and I’m committed to sharing my journey not only as an entrepreneur, but also as a community leader and residential care provider. My work centers around serving the underserved creating housing programs, wellness opportunities, and mentorship through T&P Estates and Solace Wellness Center.
But in order to keep pouring into others, I must also invest in myself. That means building financial literacy, practicing discipline, and creating strategies that sustain both my household and my businesses for years to come.

The Power of Money Moves
Alicia reminded us that financial literacy isn’t optional; it’s essential. Especially for those of us leading businesses, teams, and families. Some of her biggest lessons included:

• Create a budget for yourself and your company. Income vs. expenses must always be tracked.
• Emergency savings is non-negotiable. Aim for three months of living expenses.
• Use high-yield accounts, CDs, and savings accounts to make your money grow.
• Tackle debt wisely. Anything over 7% is considered high interest and should be paid off quickly.
• Understand your credit score. An 850 is the highest; it’s driven mainly by payment history and credit utilization (keep it below 32%).
• Set financial goals and break them down into manageable steps.
• Practice delayed gratification. Sometimes success means waiting and saving for the bigger reward.
• Apply the 24-hour rule. Don’t make big spending decisions on impulse.

My Perspective as a Business Owner
In my field, financial stewardship looks different. It’s not just about profit, it's about people. Every dollar I manage impacts housing, meals, transportation, and care services. That’s why financial planning is more than personal, it’s professional, spiritual, and community-driven.
One of my biggest takeaways is that I can’t afford to leave “crumbs” behind. My leadership, my staff, and the families I serve depend on me making wise, disciplined money moves.

Looking Ahead
This seminar was a launching point. Alicia challenged us to ask:

• What do you want your life to look like?
• What does success mean to you? For me, the answer is freedom.
  Within five years, I want to be celebrating not just financial milestones, but the impact these strategies created for my businesses, my family, and my community.

Key reminders I’m carrying forward:

• Don’t leave crumbs. Document accomplishments and celebrate progress.
• Invest in yourself and your values.
• Put your goals on paper and stay committed to them. (I’m reminded of Habakkuk 2:2.)
  For me, this isn’t just another event. It’s the start of deeper conversations around money, purpose, and leadership and a reminder that every financial choice I make today is shaping the future I want tomorrow.

-TalksWithTerri