Harris: Financial Well-Being: How to Remain Healthy, Wealthy & Wise

November 8, 2025 Bob Bakken

By Charlestien Harris, Retired Financial Coach at Southern Bancorp

If you’re not feeling the pinch during this shutdown, chances are you know someone who is. Being financially stretched can be a stressful experience that tests your tolerance. But don’t let fear take over – I’m here to help you become wise and ease the tensions that may have intensified during this difficult time in your financial life and in our economy as a whole. The following tips are designed to help you navigate this interruption to your income and other resources.

Health

Prioritize self-care.
Taking care of yourself should be a top priority. If you’re not well mentally, physically, or financially, it’s difficult to care for others. Try stress-relieving techniques such as using a stress ball, practicing breathing exercises, or meditating. To improve your financial health, consider creating a budget, building an emergency fund, paying down debt using methods like the avalanche or snowball approach, avoiding lifestyle inflation, and saving for retirement. These steps can reduce financial stress and its negative health impacts, while also contributing to long-term financial security.
Stay engaged with your health routines.
Financial stress can lead to physical symptoms like headaches and high blood pressure, and it can worsen mental health. In turn, poor financial health can negatively affect your physical well-being. Activities like journaling and maintaining social connections can support your mental health. Physical actions such as stretching, eating a balanced diet, getting quality sleep, and scheduling regular medical check-ups and screenings can significantly improve your ability to cope with income disruptions.

Wealth

Understand your financial position.
Whether you’re facing a crisis or a temporary income interruption, it’s essential to know where you stand. Start by listing all your income sources, followed by all your expenses. Understanding your debt load is crucial – it gives you a starting point for creating a financial plan. Putting these numbers on paper helps you clearly see your financial situation.
Explore community resources.
Many local communities offer assistance in areas such as food, clothing, utilities, and social services. These resources may be available through churches, federal government offices, nonprofit organizations, and local or state agencies. Each organization has its own guidelines, often based on partnerships with other agencies. I recommend learning about the requirements for accessing assistance before you need it.

Wise

Make informed decisions.
There’s no shame in asking for help when you need it. Seek the best solutions for your financial situation as soon as possible. Take advantage of opportunities to relieve stress and financial pressure for your family. Prioritize your finances by addressing the most urgent needs first, then work down to less critical budget items. Set realistic goals to help you achieve financial stability during this uncertain time.
Consult a financial counselor.
Again, it’s okay to admit you need help. Licensed financial counselors are available through various organizations to assist with personal finance, business, and housing needs. Southern Bancorp offers both financial and HUD housing counselors. Take time to research agencies in your community that provide professional assistance. Having a list of resources can be invaluable when trying to alleviate financial burdens during an income interruption.

Financial uncertainty can be stressful for anyone, but having a plan to address your concerns can go a long way toward helping you cope with sudden changes in your income. You can remain healthy, wealthy, and wise by taking advantage of the resources available to you.

For more information about this and other financial topics, you can write to me at P.O. Box 1825, Clarksdale, MS, or email me at charlestienharris77@gmail.com.

Until next week – stay financially fit!

Charlestien Harris is our financial contributor, a retired financial expert with Southern Bancorp Community Partners.