SWATCA 2025 - South Western Alberta Teachers' Convention

Why is it important to prioritize our financial well-being? Being financially prepared is essential because it's not just about money; it's a fundamental aspect of overall wellness. Neglecting financial health can lead to stress and affect mental well-being, making it harder to navigate life's challenges. For educators, who often prioritize the needs of others over their own, focusing on personal wellness, including financial wellness, is imperative. Studies show that 40% of financially unstable Canadians experience stress related to their finances. This stress permeates their work life, with 88% reporting frequent worries and 49% admitting it affects their job performance. But what if there were simple tools that could alleviate this stress? This session aims to provide such tools, offering practical steps that can be implemented easily. In this session, you will learn how to identify any financial gaps that you may have, how to prepare for the unknown (financial emergencies and unexpected costs), and how to plan for your expected financial needs (home downpayment, kids' post-secondary tuition, additional retirement funds). We will explore investment options, look at market dynamics, and using our core strategies we will set you up to make informed financial decisions. Being financially prepared isn't just about avoiding financial pitfalls; it's about building resilience and understanding and securing peace of mind in the face of life's uncertainties. Financial Wellness high-overview 1. Identifying financial gaps that you may have 2. Plan for the unknown 3. How to get started 4. Investment and insurance options to help close the gaps 5. Core strategies for success