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The Couch to 5k approach to running is a training plan that breaks down the steps to help someone who doesn’t run get to running a 5k within a set period of time. Essentially the program takes someone who is a complete beginner, with no experience, to someone who is confident in the strides they’re making and able to run 3.1 miles. Using gradual advancements, the program incorporates various splits that move from a workout mostly consisting of walking and jogging to a full run for the entire distance.
Just as we use the Couch to 5k approach for our physical health, we can implement the same type of program within our financial health journey to take us from financial “beginners” to people who are confident in flexing our financial muscles in no time! By using a gradual program for our financial goals, we will set ourselves up to make consistent progress and ultimately set ourselves up to be successful.
CREATING YOUR PROGRAM
One unique thing about typical Couch to 5k programs is that many are adaptable. They allow you to make changes to the program based on where you’re starting, your capacity, and how fast you want to reach the ultimate goal. Flexibility and customization are things that can carry over into your financial fitness journey. Financial journeys and goals aren’t one size fits all so the steps we take along the way often look different, too!
To create your financial fitness program, consider these steps!
Step 1: Determine Your “5k”
Step one in creating your financial fitness program is determining the end goal. Just like with the Couch to 5k programs having the ultimate goal of running a 5k, your financial fitness program needs a goal to be working towards— otherwise the small steps you plan along the way won’t lead to anything.
The beauty of creating your own program is in determining what works best for you and what your personal financial goals are. Whether you’re working towards becoming debt free, building your savings, or making a purchase— you can create a plan that works for you!
Step 2: Determine Your Pace
The second step in creating your program is to determine your pace and place a timeline on your training. Many Couch to 5k programs set a certain number of weeks for their programming. Whether you choose to set your pace at 8 weeks or 8 months, determining a timeline for your journey can be helpful in propelling you forward and keeping your feet hitting the ground to whatever financial goal you are working towards.
Step 3: Figure Out Your Walk/Jog/Run
You can’t expect to take off into a full sprint and run the distance without getting winded. Building endurance is essential in any fitness journey, just as it’s essential within your financial fitness journey. Creating sustainable and attainable steps within your financial journey will allow you to make consistent progress without getting burnt out after mile 1. In this step of creating your personal financial fitness program, consider the “smaller goals” that you can create along the way of working towards your “big goal(s)”.
Step 4: Make it Happen
Creating the program is one thing, following through with it is another! It can be difficult to take the step of actually starting the program. While building the program is important, the most important part is choosing to make it happen by dedicating yourself to the work before you.
While this can feel intimidating, remember that you have built a program that is tailored to you! As you walk through it week by week and month by month, you can make changes that are aligned with your journey and financial fitness goals.
While our physical and financial fitness journeys are personal and self-led, we don’t have to go on them alone! Just as there are personal trainers and accountability partners in the gym, you have access to the same resources within your financial journey. Our team of Certified Financial Counselors are here to coach you through it and cheer you along as you run after your financial goal! Schedule a time to meet with one today.
