Hi friends this is Laura Adams and you're listening to the Money Girl

Podcast. Have you ever felt stressed out about money?

Most people know what it's like to get caught short without enough cash in the bank

or to lose sleep over mounting debt.

The key to overcoming any financial crisis is to have the right safety nets in place to keep

you safe and help you sleep at night. I'll show you four simple ways to take control of your finances,

so you'll be protected no matter what happens.

Just like a smart acrobat would never cross a high wire without one of those long balancing sticks and a big strong net stretched out below. you should never go without financial safety nets.

The types of safety nets you need depend on your personal and family situation,

but they typically provide the answer to various what if questions.

Like, what if I lose my job? What if I have a big unexpected expense?

What if I get really sick and can't work?

What if my spouse dies?

What if I get sued?

I know thinking about those situations is a bummer, but believe me if something bad does happen, you'll be glad you did.

Being prepared for the unexpected is a major part of having a healthy financial life.

In a recent study conducted by MetLife, nearly three quarters of Americans said having

financial security is vital for achieving the American dream.

Americans want to provide their own security

rather than having to rely on anyone else.

However, 70% also indicated that they don't have an adequate financial safety net.

Interestingly, the study reveals that the American dream is less about living large and more about attaining a comfortable modest

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