Money Talks Blog by Oxford Planning Group

At Oxford Planning Group we hope you will be amazed by a unique experience. In our two blogs we will include periodic information and viewpoints that we hope you will find interesting. Seasoned Savers is geared towards financially experienced individuals. OPG Basics is aimed towards younger generations just starting out.

We welcome your thoughts and ideas, if you'd like to learn more about any specific area, send us an email at kirsten@oxfordplanning.com

Positive Spring Thoughts

Happy Spring! We are officially in the 3rd week of it now. While no one envisioned their spring to start off this way, all we can do is try to make the best of it. I have been thoroughly enjoying noticing all of the beautiful flowers popping up around my house and loving it as the days get longer. 

Now would probably be about the time of year that I would try to make a great and nonboring blog about “Spring Cleaning Your Finances”. However, with all the uncertainty surrounding the coronavirus right now, I don’t think that’s what anyone needs. Instead, let’s talk about spring cleaning your mind and your space! 

Keeping Healthy

There is obviously a huge focus on physical health right now. There should also be a big focus on mental health as well. I’m not even going to pretend to know too much about what is going through the minds of people across the nation. Everyone is being affected differently right now. If you are feeling stressed for one of the many reasons out there right now, make sure to take care of your mental health in whatever way is best for you. Below are a couple of easy suggestions. 

  • Go for a daily walk outside if you are able (this is allowed even in states where the shelter in place measures are in effect)
    • make sure to respect the social distancing measures and stay 6 feet away from people
  • Find an indoor activity that you enjoy that can help take your mind off of things
    • I love baking and cooking and while I don’t always have the time, it definitely helps take my mind off the day 
  • Take a break from social media and the TV
    • Scrolling through my feed all I see are either stories about the virus or some new at home workout I should buy (neither are particularly relaxing to look at) 
  • Reach out to friends and family
    • Talking on the phone or video chatting with people has helped brighten my day and made me feel a little more connected to people 
  • Try out a meditation app or podcast!
    • There are a lot of free apps available right now - a quick google search can help you find which one might be best for you

If you are feeling a bigger strain on your mental health right now, reach out to a professional. There are many online services available during this current crisis. 

 

Spring Clean Your Space

Yes, I know this is not a new idea; however, I don’t think it has ever been more relevant. With so many people working from home or having to stay inside with their whole family, a clean slate might be just what you need. 

  • Make a list for the week with one space to clean each day. Make it manageable so it isn’t a huge task if you don’t have tons of time. It can be simple like cleaning out that junk drawer that always bugs you or something more involved like organizing your closet. 
  • Get the kids involved! With the beautiful weather finally emerging, get outside and have the kids help weed your garden if you are lucky enough to have one (and lucky enough that the kids will help) 
  • See what you can donate! Spring is already a big time for donations as people clear out what they don’t need and now they are needed more than ever
    • From books to clothing donations, there is a charity out there trying to find a way to use most items in good condition to help people during this uncertain time

 

Do you part and stay inside to help our community! 

 

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10713 B Birmingham Way
Woodstock, MD  21163
Phone: 410-995-8711
shaun@oxfordplanning.com

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