40 Years with a Whistle: Life Lessons from the Field of Play

by Dan John

First, the baby steps: Copy both sides of everything in your wallet; put it in an envelope and put it someplace you can access it if you lose your wallet. If you travel, make another set (including your passport) and give it to someone you can trust to help on the road. It’s probably a good idea to have a master password document and have that available too. Schedule an annual physical, dental appointment and eye exam. No matter how much you make in income or enjoy in various forms of savings, not having your health will drain everything. This is a good idea for everyone in your family too. Begin an emergency fund. Even if you are in debt, having $1,500 easily accessible will allow you to weather the minor issues in life. I’ve had the hot water heater go out on Christmas Eve—things happen. A little cushion provides a better night’s sleep. In addition, grab a jar or envelope and start stuffing any spare change or cash into your “fortune fund.” Every day would be wonderful, but do what you can. And, every time you add a little, remind yourself of that distant goal. Honestly, if you can do these easy steps at an early enough age, you won’t have as much to worry about later in life in the area of finance.