If you're feeling overwhelmed by the current state of our world, you're not alone. There's a particular weight that settles in when everything feels like it's spinning out of control and none of us likes uncertainty. Unfortunately, many economic experts are telling us to expect just that for at least the upcoming summer. So how do we continue living our daily lives and planning for a prosperous future when it seems things are changing on a daily basis? Let’s talk about that here.
Remember that most of us have navigated collective crises before: the end of the Cold War, 9/11, multiple economic crashes, COVID-19. What we've learned is that staying in your power means taking care of both your values AND your practical needs. Remember that scene in The Empire Strikes Back when Han Solo has to navigate the asteroid field while everything's falling apart around him? The asteroids are real, the danger is real, but we still have to fly the ship with intention and skill.
Your financial choices, especially during uncertain times, can be daily acts of both resistance and hope. They're ways to vote for the world you want to see while building the stability you need to weather whatever comes next.
Building your financial asteroid shield
Let's start with the practical foundation: during volatile times, consider building a slightly larger emergency fund than you normally would. This isn't about fear-based hoarding but about creating the financial breathing room that allows you to act from your values rather than react from scarcity.
If your typical emergency fund covers six months of expenses, consider working toward nine or even twelve. The extra cushion isn't just about potential job loss or unexpected expenses—it's about having the freedom to make choices that align with your conscience. Maybe that means being able to leave a job that conflicts with your values or having the resources to help others when crisis hits your community.
Creating financial buffers through intentional choices
One of the most empowering steps you can take right now is redirecting money from things that don't serve your values into things that do. Take a hard look at your subscriptions and recurring expenses. Are you paying for services from companies whose values conflict with yours?
Channel that money into your emergency fund or direct community support. Every unnecessary subscription you eliminate becomes hundreds of dollars a year that can go toward building your resilience or supporting causes you believe in. It's like Marie Kondo for your values—does this expense spark joy and align with who you want to be in the world?
Your money as your voice
During uncertain times, where you spend your money becomes even more powerful. Your dollars are votes for the kind of economy and society you want to see. Support local businesses and organizations that reflect your values. When you need something, ask yourself: "How can I make this purchase in a way that strengthens my community and supports my principles?"
This might mean choosing the locally owned bookstore over the online giant, banking with a credit union instead of a mega-bank or buying groceries from the co-op or a farmers market. These choices often cost the same or even save money while building the community infrastructure we all need.
Taking action: Three ways to connect your finances to your values
1. Get involved locally. Attend city council meetings, join your neighborhood association, or volunteer with local environmental groups. Local politics often have the most direct impact on daily life, and your voice carries more weight in smaller forums. Many of these organizations need financial support too—even small monthly donations make a significant difference.
2. Direct financial support to agencies helping those most affected by current events. Consider monthly donations to immigration legal aid organizations, civil rights groups, or organizations supporting democratic institutions. Automated giving removes the emotional labor of deciding each month while ensuring consistent support.
3. Try a values-based spending challenge. Commit to a month where you intentionally support Black-owned, women-owned, veteran-owned, or locally owned businesses for all your purchases. Track your experience too! You might find that you discover new favorites while also strengthening the economic ecosystem you want to see thrive.
Protecting your energy while staying engaged
Balance staying informed with protecting your mental and financial health. Set boundaries around news consumption—maybe check in twice a day rather than constantly. This includes social media apps like Instagram and TikTok. Use the time you reclaim to focus on concrete actions you can take.
The world feels heavy right now, and that's a rational response to what we're witnessing. But remember: you have more power than you think. Every financial choice you make is a chance to build the world you want to live in, one decision at a time.
Ready to align your financial choices with your values during uncertain times? We're here to help you create a plan that serves both your security and your principles.