You've worked hard for your success, and it shows. Now that you have achieved a stable financial position, isn't it time to start thinking about financial planning? No matter which career you pursue, a financial plan can add value to existing wealth. Here, we will talk about a few strategies to help you to create a financial plan for financial independence, retirement and other goals.  

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, US women have earned 63% of associate degrees, 59% of bachelor's degrees, 65% of master's degrees, and 59% of doctorates in 2021-2022. However, men still earn more for comparable jobs. So, it's more important than ever for women to take a proactive stance about their financial planning.

Despite earning less, women are expected to control $34 trillion in financial assets by 2030, up from $7.3 trillion a decade ago. That's a clear indication that women have a huge impact on the economy. To make their economic power stretch even further, it's important for women to make the right decisions about their financial future.

When it comes to planning for retirement, these are the things you should keep in mind:  

• The earlier you plan, the more you should be able save.  
• Buy a home and pay off the mortgage before you retire.  
• Consider claiming Social Security at the right time; it can be reduced up to 30% if you take early retirement.  
• If you own a business, put a succession plan in place so that you can retire when you're ready. 
• Create a budget for your regular expenses and include money for an emergency fund. 

The three types of investors are pre-investors, passive investors, and active investors:  

• A pre-investor is thinking about investing but hasn't invested yet. If this is you, you need to meet with one of our financial planners as soon as possible to get started.  
• Passive investors put their money into mutual funds and other investment options that don't require their ongoing attention. They don't want to think too much about their money but also need to know that it's safe and productive.  
• Active investors create value from revenue streams by proactively potentially maximizing their earning potential.  

No matter where you fall on the spectrum, we can help you pursue your financial goals by creating a financial plan and investing your money wisely.

Let's face another truth, only savings and investments will preserve your wealth. It is time to invest wisely. Need some ideas? Here are different ways women are shaping the investment market:  

• Women investors are more likely to invest in environmental, social, and corporate governance.  
• About 60% of US women have invested in the stock market, studies found in 2023.
• Women often get better investment returns than men.  
• Nine out of 10 women are positive about taking proactive steps in finance and career.  
• Women are up to 70% keener to learn about finance and investment from professionals, as the firms reported.  
• They rethink before investing in any stock three times more than males. 

At Atlas Wealth Strategies, we are here to support women investors, and it's important to understand that you're not alone. Our experience can give you the input you need to make and work toward meeting your financial goals, such as sending kids to college, funding your retirement, and buying a home.