Elizabeth Rice is the Prosperity Platform Manager at Goodwill Industries of Central Florida
From Goodwill Industries of Central Florida
It’s said that money is one of the three things you should never talk about – right next to politics and religion. But when it comes to your personal finances, that mentality can do more harm than good … and in the long run, it can stand in the way of making real progress toward your goals.
That’s especially important to remember right now: According to an August 2025 Marist Poll, nearly 45% of Americans say that their cost of living isn’t affordable, and nearly three in ten say their monthly expenses outweigh their monthly income. So if you’re among those feeling uncertain – or even pessimistic – about your financial future, you’re far from alone. And you don’t have to tackle your finances alone, either.
Not everyone can afford to hire a personal financial advisor. But you can benefit from free services provided by community organizations, local banks, and nonprofits like Goodwill – and that can play a significant factor in accessing more resources and support to achieve your spending and saving goals.
Instead of “don’t talk about money,” here are some alternative sayings to keep in mind:
- We’re Stronger Together Than We Are Apart. Humans are social creatures, and studies show that sharing your goals with someone else can significantly increase your chances of achieving them. Working with a professional planner is a great way to make consistent financial progress, stay on track, and celebrate successes together.
- A Worry Shared Is a Worry Halved. If thinking about money makes your blood pressure shoot up, you’re not the only one: Finances can be a deeply emotional aspect of life, whether you’re working to make mortgage payments or experiencing sticker shock in the grocery aisle. But by talking to an experienced professional about your problems, you can take a more objective look at your worries and make a plan to solve them, which is good for both financial and mental health.
- Every Little Bit Counts. Maybe you can start by saving a few dollars a day … or attending a free personal finance class at your local bank … or reaching out to a program like Goodwill’s Prosperity Platform, which offers free one-on-one financial coaching to members of the community. Every step in the right direction – no matter how small – will help you build a foundation for a more solid financial future.
If you’re ready to start talking about money, Goodwill Industries of Central Florida is making it easier to get started. Our free Prosperity Platform helps people identify their personal and
financial goals, connect to local resources, and create a clear roadmap to success, all while an experienced coach guides them every step of the way. Learn more about how you can get involved today at www.goodwillcfl.com.
Elizabeth Rice is the Prosperity Platform Manager at Goodwill Industries of Central Florida (GICF), which has provided vocational and job placement services to Central Floridians for more than 60 years. GICF directly channels more than 90% of its annual revenue into programs that enable individuals to secure meaningful employment, achieve their personal goals, and thrive economically.
