The FI movement is growing as more people realize the importance of financial independence. Some people are saving enough money to retire at 35 or 40 years old! How is this possible? Join us as we explore the basics of personal finance from an FI perspective. We will investigate the strategies you can use to successfully make money work for you so that you don't have to keep working for money! Philosophically, we will discuss using money as a tool to shape the life you want. We will also examine the growing FIRE movement (Financial Independence, Retire Early) and talk about what it means to retire and action steps you can take now to help you get there. Is it crazy to think about retirement before you start working full time? No way! 

By the end of our session, students will be familiar with the key principles of financial independence. We will make a plan for tracking our income and spending and discuss why it is important to know these numbers. We will discuss the concept of saving more than you spend along with effective ways to invest your income. We will also talk about the dangers of credit cards and how to use them responsibly. Finally, we will go over ways to make mindful decisions about big purchases, including cars and college! 

Please note that this class is designed as an introduction to the basics of financial independence. Learners who are already well versed in managing their finances, tracking spending and saving may benefit from moving directly to the second level of this course. More information on that course can be found here: https://outschool.com/classes/my-mind-on-my-money-a-teen-guide-to-financial-independence-level-2-7pSWvCj3?usid=7xIIHsRK&signup=true&utm_campaign=share_activity_link
If you are not sure which level is best for your learner, please feel free to send me a message describing your learner's current experience level and I will be happy to make a recommendation. 

This class is taught as a teacher-led conversation. Learners are encouraged to participate at their comfort level by asking questions and making connections to their own life experiences. Learners can contribute to the conversation by raising their hand or by typing in the chat box. Don’t worry there is no pressure to share if you are not feeling it. You are welcome to listen and can always reach out to me with questions by private chat message or after class. However, great questions or comments often lead to really interesting conversations and further learning so please, ask away!