Sis, It's About Time You Take Control

Assalamu Alaikum, girlie!💐

Here’s a tough truth: Muslim women need to learn about managing money. Not because we’re trying to compete with men, but because not being financially literate is EXPENSIVE. This cost includes lost opportunities, getting into unnecessary debt, and financial anxiety that weighs heavy on your heart, all of which will make you more vulnerable.

Managing your finances isn’t just about numbers—it’s about aligning your life with your values, achieving your goals, and securing a stable future for you and your loved ones.

So today, we’re covering:

1️⃣ 5 Reasons You Should Pay Attention to Your Finances

2️⃣ Tips to get started on your financial journey

Let’s jump right in! 💰✨

5 Reasons You Should Pay Attention To Your Finances

1️⃣ Avoid Financial Stress

I have hosted workshops for Muslim women in college to those well-seasoned in their careers! The most common fear I hear is financial stress. This is real, because not having enough, feeling stuck financially, and being hopeless about your financial future weighs heavily on your body.

Living paycheck-to-paycheck or constantly worrying about money is terrifying! Learning the science of managing money can reduce financial anxiety and gain peace of mind. Imagine knowing exactly where your money is going every month—how freeing would that be? You’re in control, telling your money what to do rather than wondering where it’s going.

2️⃣ Prepare for Life’s Unexpected Moments

Life happens—job changes, medical emergencies, or even once-in-a-lifetime opportunities (hello, last-minute Umrah trip!). Having a solid financial foundation ensures you’re ready for the unexpected, without scrambling or taking on impermissible debt.

3️⃣ Empower Yourself and Others

As a Muslim woman, your role is significant. You’re probably a mom, sister, daughter, community, member and more and you have influence. When you master how to manage your finances, you set an example for your family, friends, and even your kids.

We always talk about passing down assets to the next generation but how often do we talk about passing on financial literacy? Making money and managing money require different skillsets and your choices can inspire others to take control of their money and build a halal financial system that works for them.

4️⃣ Achieve Your Dreams

Whether it’s traveling, taking care of your parents, or wanting the freedom to stay at home and having passive income, financial literacy is the bridge between your dreams and reality. When you know what to do, you can create a roadmap with clarity, make dua, and turn your aspirations into your reality.

5️⃣ Honor Your Responsibilities

Allah has entrusted us with wealth as an amanah (trust). You will be asked about how you made it, how you spend it, etc. Wouldn’t you want to make sure you have good answers?

By managing our money well, we ensure that we’re fulfilling our religious obligations, paying zakah (if eligible), and giving generously to causes that matter. Good financial habits help you align your spending with your values.

Tips to Get Started on Your Financial Journey

1. Start Learning 📚

Start small—read blogs, watch YouTube videos, or listen to podcasts about personal finance. Focus on Islamic financial principles so you can confidently apply what you learn. [And of course, keep reading this newsletter every Monday😁]

2. Track Your Spending 💡

You can’t take the right step if you don’t know where you’ve been! Spend a week writing down every purchase to see where your money goes. Apps like Finance Girlie (😉) can make this easy and insightful.

3. Create a Realistic Budget 📝

A budget isn’t restrictive; it’s empowering. Think of it as a way to prioritize your values and goals. Start with your essential expenses, add savings, and allocate funds for things that bring you joy.

4. Get The Support You Need 🤝

Don’t hesitate to ask for guidance. Whether it’s hiring a financial coach or attending workshops, getting professional and communal support can save you time and money in the long run.

5. Take One Step at a Time 🧗

Like being healthy, being financially responsible is a lifestyle. You don’t have to figure everything out at once. Start with one habit—like saving $50 a month—and build from there. Progress, not perfection, is the goal.

Delaying financial literacy doesn’t just cost you money; it costs you opportunities. Think about the lost returns from the investments you didn’t make, the stress you’ve endured trying to figure it out, and the goals you keep delaying.

This is not the time to beat yourself up; it’s the time to say no to procrastination! You’ve been chugging along on your own for way too long, barely making it through. Build your team of cheerleaders to take your finances to the next level!

Your #1 fan,

Fatimah🎊

Founder, Finance Girlie