Millennial Money Coach: Rosa Lopez
For millennial women navigating the world of student loans, rising rents, and those oh-so-tempting seasonal shopping, a money coach brings all of the tips, tricks + education to your budgeting journey. It’s like having a supportive BFF who helps you whip your finances into shape—whether it’s planning that dreamy vacation or saving for your dream home.
Let’s dive into Rosa Lopez’s world of finances. Interested in financial literacy from Rosa? Check out her Instagram.
What inspired you to work in the financial space?
I saw my mom struggle post-divorce as she had a minimal financial education and very little of her own money as a stay at home mom. Going through that experience made me realize that money was important for women, and together with my love for math I decided to go into accounting and finance post college.
I found myself still feeling unsure about my financial future despite having a career and helping business owners make financial decisions. At age 30, I finally decided to take control and although it took me a few years I finally figured out how to reach the financial goals I only dreamed of before. I wished someone had shown me the way through so I didn't waste so many years and that led me to start helping women with their finances.
At Heyday Homes, we’re passionate about supporting female entrepreneurs and small businesses. Our spotlight series aims to introduce clients, family, and friends to local businesses in the area in effort to build community. We hope you enjoy this interview and learning about Rosa’s work as much we have!
Name: Rosa Lopez, Millennial Women’s Money Coach.
What do you like most about your line of work?
My favorite part is witnessing transformations! Seeing women advocate for themselves at work, start saving for the dream trip, or finally setting financial boundaries without feeling like they're being selfish. Through taking control of their money, women gain confidence and that causes a ripple effect in their life - seeing that change in them is priceless.
What is your top challenge as a woman in finance?
I have to say it's constantly keeping money shame in check. For so long I bought into the "money is the root of all evil" idea and that you shouldn't talk about money or want more of it. That led me to feeling shame for the spending decisions I made in the past, for earning good money, and for still wanting to live a way better life. After reaching my initial financial goals, I realized that everyone around me wins when I do better and as a result I have gained so much confidence. I want more women to experience the same when it comes to their finances and that's what helps keep me from stopping or quieting down when that money shame wants to sneak in.
What is your favorite thing to teach women?
Teaching them to manage their money is a catalyst for my absolute favorite thing - helping women discover their financial autonomy. Imagine going to a party without asking your friends what they're wearing and instead rocking the outfit you just bought that you've been dying to wear, and feeling good about it. This doesn't always mean you have to be different from the crowd but it's oftentimes having the financial autonomy to go after those unique goals that makes a world of a difference.
What is one of the biggest financial lessons that you learned on your own?
The biggest financial lesson has been that true wealth is invisible. We've been conditioned to believe that people who buy expensive clothes or cars are the ones that have money but financial wealth lies in reducing consumption and buying assets that appreciate over time without additional effort on your part. Being able to take a year off of work, not rely on a partner for your future, or becoming work optional are all expensive things that money can buy but also they aren't flashy.
What is a money coach's "hard pill to swallow" advice for millennial women?
This is probably my favorite question - that no one is coming to save us from the financial situation we are in. We are the ones that made the decisions along the way that got us at this point and because of that very reason, we are the ones that can get ourselves out and beyond what we ever thought possible. This is such an empowering place to come from because instead of dwelling on the past or blaming external circumstances we can start taking micro-actions that are within our control that will ultimately add up to the bigger results we want to see over time.
Want more advice? Check out her Instagram.
Just for fun…
When you need a wellness reset, what do you do for yourself?
This is an area that I'm always keeping in check because there's so much I want to do both with my family and with my personal goals that it's easy to get overwhelmed. I find that having dinner with friends, treating myself to facials, and taking me time even if it's just to read really helps keep my cup filled.
What is your favorite area in your home?
The use of our home has evolved over the years. Since working from home, I've converted a bedroom into my personal sanctuary, which includes my home office, a cozy nook, my closet, and get ready area. It's the space that's dedicated to just me where I can keep my personal belongings or where I can step away and sit in my nook to unwind. Even my kids recognize it's mom's space!
