Making Money Meaningful: How To Give, Spend, Save & Invest In Uncertain Times

Let’s be honest—life feels financially uncertain right now. Prices are high, interest rates are elevated, and the headlines can leave us feeling anxious or overwhelmed.

But uncertainty doesn’t have to paralyze us.  The first thing to ask yourself is “What do I need right now?” Take a moment to stop, pause, breath.  Even in these times, your financial choices can create peace of mind and reflect your deepest values. Whether you’re earning, spending, retiring, or reinventing, there are ways to make money meaningful again.

Here are four areas where wise decisions create agency and can have a real impact on your life, your community, and the world around you.

Give: Step Up When Systems Step Back

Nonprofits and community services across the country—including here in the Roaring Fork Valley—are feeling the squeeze as government programs shrink. Now more than ever, private generosity is vital.

Giving isn’t just about writing a check. It’s about connecting your financial life to the things that matter most—local food banks, housing initiatives, literacy programs, and more. You define “enough,” then decide how to pay it forward.

Pro Tip: If you’re over 70½, consider using a Qualified Charitable Distribution (QCD) from your IRA. It counts toward your required minimum distribution and lowers your taxable income—while supporting a cause you care about.

Spend: Every Dollar Is a Vote

Your spending sends a message. Each purchase you make is a small vote for the kind of businesses—and the kind of community—you want to support.

Could you choose a local bookstore over a large online retailer? A woman-owned artisan shop instead of a chain? These choices may cost a little more, but they offer rich returns in community connection and long-term impact.

Pro Tip: Once a month, review your bank or credit card statement. Highlight the purchases that align with your values—and those that don’t. Let that awareness guide your next month’s spending.

Save: Build a Buffer for Life’s Curveballs

Financial stability is about breathing room. A modest savings cushion provides peace of mind when life throws the unexpected your way, from job loss, to health bills.

If the traditional 3–6 months of expenses feels daunting, start with one month. If you’re retired and have predictable income streams, a smaller emergency fund may suffice. The goal is flexibility, not perfection.

Pro Tip: Open a high-yield savings account, many of which are currently offering over 4% interest. Set up an automatic monthly transfer—even a small amount can snowball into security.

Invest: Grow Wealth Across All Areas of Life

Investing isn’t only about the markets. True wealth grows when we intentionally build up four key areas:

1. Financial Markets – Choose investments aligned with your values. Ask your advisor about stocks, bonds and alternatives that you want to participate in or stay away from as a matter of principal.
2. Education – Attend workshops, read widely, or pursue that long-awaited certification. Knowledge is wealth.
3. Relationships – Support family members, mentor others, or deepen community connections.
4. Real Estate – Consider how homeownership or local property investments support your stability and future goals.

Pro Tip: Choose one of these areas to invest in over the next three months. Whether it’s reallocating your portfolio, enrolling in a class, or hosting a meaningful family dinner—each investment plants seeds for future growth.

Closing Thought: Choose Wisdom Over Worry

Wherever you are in your financial journey—earning, spending, retiring, or evolving—you can make thoughtful, purpose-driven decisions that reflect what is important to you and shape your community and your personal legacy.

Money is more than math. It’s a mirror of your heart, a measure of your impact, and a vehicle for what matters most.

Pause and ask yourself:

• Am I giving where help is needed?
• Am I spending in a way that supports the future I believe in?
• Do I feel grounded and secure in how I’ve saved?
• Are my investments aligned with the life—and world—I want to help shape?

You don’t need to have it all figured out. You simply need to stay awake to what matters and take the next step with intention.

Let this be a time of wisdom, not worry—and an opportunity to redefine what wealth truly means for you, your family, and your community.