Image Credit: Headspace Budget Basics guidance
Post written by Michael Burn Jr. ‘26
Welcome back to the Summer of Reflection with the Student Wellness Center! For our first time readers, this summer, we are inviting you to embark on a journey of self-discovery and exploration as we delve into the different aspects that make up who you are. Just as the earth takes root, thrives, and provides nourishment, it’s time for us to reflect on the areas of our lives that can contribute to vitality, balance, and joy. This week, we turn our focus to Financial Wellness, a crucial aspect of our overall well being.
Financial wellness isn’t just about having enough cash to splurge on some late-night Domino’s or snag the latest iPhone (although that’s nice too!). It’s about building a solid foundation for your life and feeling secure and stress-free about your finances.
Imagine this: you’re in control of your money, you’ve got a budget that suits your lifestyle, and you’ve even managed to put away some savings for those unpredictable moments (like when your phone suddenly sinks to the bottom of the Connecticut—been there, done that!). How would that make you feel? Pretty incredible, right?
Along with just feeling good, financial wellness can provide you greater freedom and flexibility to make choices that align with your values and aspirations. Whether it’s pursuing a study abroad, starting a side hustle, or taking that spontaneous road trip with friends, being financially stable means you don’t have to pass up on these opportunities and are able to maintain some peace of mind at the same time.
So, how can you nourish your financial roots while rocking your Dartmouth experience? Here are some action steps just for you:
- Approach money challenges with patience and kindness – Paying attention to your spending, budgeting, and saving can be stressful! When you approach it with a sense of compassion and a growth-oriented mindset, managing your finances can actually feel encouraging and positive.
Try This! Take the Headspace* free Mindful Spending: Managing Financial Stress course or listen to the Budgeting Basics 5-minute talk to explore how to bring compassion into your finances and tips for mindful spending. - Tap into the Financial Aid Office – Get to know the resources they offer. They’re here to guide you through your options and help you make sense of your financial aid package. Don’t be shy—reach out and get the support you need.
- Create a Budget and Track Spending – Develop a budgeting habit and keep tabs on your spending. This way, you’ll know exactly where your money is going and be able to make informed decisions about how to spend, save, and prioritize your financial goals. Online tools like Mint or You Need a Budget can assist you in organizing your finances effectively.
- Find tools to help manage financial anxiety – whether that’s through meditation (like one of our Micro Mindfulness Guided Audio practices), scheduling a wellness check-in to talk through what a financial plan might look like, or reminding yourself that your still learning; it’s important to give yourself space so that you can gain greater clarity around the best next step forward.
*All active Dartmouth College faculty, staff, students, including undergraduate, graduate, and professional school students are eligible for free premium access to Headspace.
As we wrap this week’s theme up, we invite you to make time to regularly reflect on your financial habits. When you make this a priority you might just feel more inspired to cultivate those money skills, explore the resources available to you, and/or to lay the groundwork for a secure and fulfilling future. Remember, financial wellness isn’t just a buzzword—it’s an essential part of your well-being!
Stay tuned for our next reflection, where we’ll dive into another vital root of well-being: Physical! Embrace this summer of self-discovery, and may it bring you closer to a life lived with vitality, balance, and joy.
Wishing you financial wellness and fulfillment,
Michael Burns Jr. ‘26
Student Wellness Center Wellbeing Intern