In previous blog posts, I’ve talked about my passion for working with the organization Under His Umbrella and how the mission trips I’ve taken to Rwanda have not only affected my life, they’ve changed how I help my clients with their financial planning. I know from personal experience that funding your passion is important to your wellbeing and I’m dedicated to helping my clients achieve a rewarding retirement.
In January 2020, I went back to Rwanda and this time I was asked to speak to the staff of Vineyard Christian School about money basics. Tanya Rush, one of the founders of UHU, explained how many people in the community live in “survival mode” for most of their lives – and some situations are more dire than others.
Money Basics are our Common Ground
Our conversations got very candid quickly. We discussed how each life has value and each life should be taken care of as much as possible. Here in the U.S. we’re familiar with the concept of “putting on your own oxygen mask before you help someone else” and I found that the residents I spoke to have the same issues. They’re stretched thin, as many of us are, taking care of family members of all ages and stages of life and trying to make ends meet.
The truth is that no matter where you are, the basic concepts surrounding money remain the same. In my blog that mainly reaches audiences in the United States, I’ve talked about compound interest and the importance of allowing your savings to grow over time. That concept is something that can be used by anyone anywhere.
What I now call “The Future of Money Exercise” was a huge motivator for my audience in Rwanda as well, and it should be - the interest rates in that area are a whopping 8%! As I provided a couple of examples and showed them the power of saving via payroll deduction every paycheck over 20-30 years, it was exciting to see the lightbulb go on when they realized the benefits of saving over the long term.
It’s Personal
We are all so similar in how we deal with money; some like to talk about it, some prefer not to discuss it at all and are very uncomfortable, especially in front of other people. However, we all have so much to learn from each other! As I told the team my story and opened up about my own money struggles growing up, I shared with them how that was a huge motivator for me to work hard and be successful. This drives my passion every day.
And I want to ignite that passion in others…no matter where they are.
Debbie Charpentier has been serving clients since 1989 by using a holistic, comprehensive approach that helps clients create the life they value and the legacy they envision. Charpentier Wealth Strategies is a Bakersfield, CA Financial Planning practice that offers fee-based financial planning services. To contact Debbie, email Debbie.Charpentier@LFG.com. http://charpentierwealth.com/ Debbie Charpentier is a registered representative offering securities and investment advisory services through Lincoln Financial Advisors Corp., (Member SIPC). Charpentier Wealth Strategies is not an affiliate of Lincoln Financial Advisors. CRN-2960538-022020