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Health & Fitness

The Importance of Financial Literacy

      Financial literacy has become a vital topic in recent years given the continuous struggles in the economy. Until recently, our children have continuously been brainwashed into thinking that the only way to be successful is to get straight A’s in all academic courses such as Math, Science, Social Studies, and English. While these courses are obviously important, as is achieving good grades, it does not necessarily translate into financial success. There have been many stories about athletes, entertainers, and even our friends and relatives who generate a large income from their jobs, but have nothing to show for it except a large amount of debt. They are not wealthy and are living paycheck to paycheck. There are also many book-smart students who achieve success in high school and college, but are ignorant when it comes to managing their finances. Furthermore, I find it interesting that many millionaires in this country were average students throughout their years in school. However, they knew how to prepare a budget, live within their means, build an emergency fund, and invest wisely.

Mike Zisa
Financial Literacy Educator & Author of 'The Early Investor: How Teens & Young Adults Can Become Wealthy'

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