- Money Mondays
- Posts
- Money Monday
Money Monday
By Imagine Scholarships
Sherri Ross
January 06, 2025
🌟 Welcome to this week's Money Monday!
🎉Happy New Year, friends!
As we dive into 2025, I want to share a lesson that’s shaped the way I think about education and finances. It’s something I’ve experienced personally, and I believe it’s deeply relevant to all of you — whether you’re trying to pay for college, help your student navigate this journey, or simply figure out the right pathway to success.
The Pressure to Do It All
I still remember the overwhelming pressure when I was trying to figure out how to afford college. Every scholarship application, every job opportunity, every financial aid form felt like another mountain to climb. The advice I kept hearing was, “You have to do it all.” Work more hours. Apply for every scholarship under the sun. Take out loans if you must.
It felt like the only way forward was to push harder, sacrifice more, and somehow magically make it all work. But here’s the hard truth: Just like in business, doing it all doesn’t guarantee success — and it can take a toll on your health, relationships, and mental well-being.
I’ve learned that paying for college and succeeding in college isn’t about doing everything. It’s about doing the right things and focusing your energy on what truly matters.
đź’°The Cost of Overdoing It
I’ve seen students take on too much: juggling full-time jobs while attending school, burning out by overloading themselves with extracurriculars, or taking on too much debt because they thought it was the only option.
The cost of those decisions can be steep. Mental health struggles. Missed opportunities to actually enjoy the college experience. Financial stress that follows them for years.
For families, the pressure can look different but feel just as heavy. Parents sacrificing their own financial security to help pay for college. Students feeling guilty because their choices add stress to their families.
🤓A Smarter Path Exists
But there’s a better way. Just like building a sustainable business, creating a sustainable path to education is about balance. It’s about making smart, intentional choices that align with your goals and values.
Here’s what I’ve learned:
Work smarter, not harder. When applying for scholarships, focus on quality, not quantity. Find scholarships that align with your story, talents, and goals. Tools like Imagine Scholarships can help you discover the right opportunities without overwhelming yourself.
Take control of your finances. A realistic budget can be a game-changer. Knowing how much money is coming in and going out each month helps you avoid unnecessary debt and reduces stress.
Leverage resources. From work-study programs to internships, there are so many ways to gain valuable experience while earning money or reducing costs. These opportunities not only help financially but also build your resume and network.
Ask for help. Whether it’s your school counselor, a mentor, or tools like Imagine Scholarships, there are people and resources ready to support you. You don’t have to figure it all out alone.
🏅The Real Definition of Success
Success in college isn’t about being the student who does everything perfectly. It’s about being the student who stays focused on their goals and makes choices that set them up for long-term success.
For me, success means:
Pursuing education without drowning in debt
Building meaningful relationships that will last a lifetime
Maintaining a healthy balance between work, school, and life
Exploring passions and career paths that align with your gifts and strengths
Graduating with options and opportunities, not just a degree
đź‘€How to Stay Focused on Your Goals
To stay on track, here’s what I recommend:
Define your priorities. What are the non-negotiables in your life? Is it graduating debt-free? Finding a career that excites you? Maintaining your mental health? Use these as your compass.
Make a plan. Break your big goals into smaller, actionable steps. For example, “I want to graduate with minimal debt” could include steps like applying for 10 scholarships by February or setting up a meeting with your school’s financial aid office.
Celebrate progress. Every step forward — no matter how small — is worth celebrating. Got your first scholarship? Landed a part-time job on campus? Take a moment to acknowledge your hard work.
⚠️Warning Signs to Watch For
If you feel like you’re off track, here are some signs to look out for:
You’re constantly stressed about money but avoiding making a plan.
You feel guilty asking for help or using available resources.
You’re taking on too much and burning out.
You’re comparing your journey to others and feeling like you’re falling short.
If any of these resonate with you, take a breath. You’re not alone, and it’s never too late to refocus.
The Bottom Line
Your education is an investment, but it shouldn’t come at the expense of your health, happiness, or future. Take it one step at a time, focus on what matters most, and don’t be afraid to ask for help.
This year, let’s redefine success in college. It’s not about doing everything perfectly or taking on every opportunity that comes your way. It’s about building a path that works for you and leads to a fulfilling, successful life.
If you’d like to dig deeper into your personal story and how I can help you can schedule a 1x1 session with me here.
You’ve got this.
See you next Monday!
Cheering you on,
Sherri Ross
P.S. Check out our Scholarship of the Week below. And, if you’re ready to find more scholarships, streamline your college application process, and make smarter financial decisions, check out Imagine Scholarships. It’s a game-changer, and we’re here to support you every step of the way. We also have courses and other resources waiting for you here. Reply to this message or email [email protected] if you have questions about signing up your group. As the leading platform for scholarships, college, career, and life readiness, we connect you to scholarships you can actually get with expert guidance to make your educational journey simple and easy.
🎇 Scholarship of the Week
Forwarded this email? Subscribe here.