Month: May 2021

2021-05-14T08:01:00

(BPT) – May is National Pet Month, a perfect time for pet owners to celebrate the unbreakable bond they share with their pets and the joy they bring every day. This month is also a great opportunity to raise awareness about pets and people in need, specifically those impacted by domestic violence. 1 in 3 women and 1 in 4 men will experience some form of domestic abuse in their lifetime. And sadly, if domestic violence survivors have pets, they often need to make heartbreaking choices about what to do with their pet when deciding to seek safety at a shelter.

The issue and support

Nearly half of survivors of domestic violence (48%) delay leaving their abuser because they can’t take a beloved pet with them to a shelter. This is because as few as 10% of domestic violence shelters in the U.S. allow pets, leaving survivors confronted by a difficult — and often dangerous — dilemma.

Fortunately, resources for survivors and their pets continue to grow. Since 2019, Purina and the nonprofit organization RedRover have partnered to create the Purple Leash Project, a national effort born out of Purina’s mission to bring and keep pets and people together and RedRover’s mission to bring animals and their owners from crisis to care. The Purple Leash Project has provided 21 grants totaling over $300,000 to help domestic violence shelters nationwide become pet-friendly, or to expand their pet-friendly services.

For shelters that receive these grants, funding goes toward pet-friendly renovations that include installing indoor and outdoor pet havens or play areas, creating privacy screens around outdoor pet play yards, building indoor cat bridges to foster play and exercise for cats, and even converting existing apartment spaces to be adaptable for pets.

How you can help

Purina and RedRover are now working together toward a goal of making 25% of shelters in the U.S. pet-friendly by the end of 2025. And there are several ways you can contribute to the cause and help spread awareness:

1. Head to the pet food aisle

During the month of May, pet owners can look for specially marked Purple Leash Project packaging of select Purina products like Beneful, Beggin’, Tidy Cats and Cat Chow that have information about the issue and how Purina is helping. You can find these products at your favorite retailers including Walmart, Target, Chewy, Kroger, Meijer, PetSmart and Pet Supplies Plus.

2. Make a donation

By making a donation to the Purple Leash Project via RedRover.org, you can support the mission by helping to fund more grants to more shelters. As a thank you, donors who pledge $60 or more will receive a limited-edition purple leash or cat collar of their own.

3. Show your support on social media

Share more about this cause on Instagram using the hashtag #PurpleLeashProject in May and throughout the year.

“Since Purina and RedRover launched the Purple Leash Project two years ago, we’re seeing incredible progress and momentum toward our vision of creating more pet-inclusive domestic abuse services,” said Nina Leigh Krueger, CEO and president of Purina. “With hundreds of survivors and their pets already supported by this initiative, we’re committed and asking others to join us in protecting the unique bond we share with our pets so that survivors and their pets can escape to safety and begin healing together.”

To learn more about the Purple Leash Project, to make a donation or to sign up for ongoing updates, visit PurpleLeashProject.com/Petmonth.

If someone you know is being abused and is ready to leave with their pet, they can find information on pet-friendly shelters in their area at www.SafePlaceForPets.org.

2021-05-14T08:01:00

(BPT) – Shortly after Selena’s son Zamar was born, she noticed that while he loved to play with his magnet blocks and blow bubbles, he wasn’t making eye contact or reacting to the world around him. Selena decided to speak to a friend who recommended having Zamar screened for autism. That hunch proved correct — after a screening and full evaluation, Zamar was diagnosed with autism at 16 months old. The family then went to a local social services organization that was able to connect Zamar with therapies and supports to target his specific needs.

Zamar is just one of the 1 in 54 children in the U.S. who are affected by autism, according to the CDC. Autism refers to a broad range of conditions that can appear as challenges with social skills, repetitive behaviors, speech and nonverbal communication. The autism spectrum is incredibly vast and diverse. Individuals each have a unique set of strengths, challenges, perspectives and experiences. Some people with autism need little or no support and can go on to live independently, while others with more significant challenges may require more consistent, sustained support.

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that all children be screened for autism at their 18- and 24-month well-child checkup. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many families have been unable to attend regular wellness visits with their child’s pediatrician. Unfortunately, this means fewer opportunities to assess a child’s progress towards key developmental milestones — some of which can reveal signs of autism.

Identifying the early signs of autism as a parent can make a lifetime of difference in helping a child access the best resources to thrive throughout life. In Zamar’s case, that meant making sure he felt he had the support to learn to communicate his needs. To put it simply, an early diagnosis can help a family secure early assistance with improving learning as well as communication and social skills for their young children with autism. Zamar’s language and communication skills are progressing well after his diagnosis, thanks to his services and treatment.

“The earlier a child receives support — whatever their unique set of strengths and challenges — the better their future outcomes can be,” said Dr. Pamela Dixon, director of clinical services and inclusion at Autism Speaks. “We believe in a world where all people with autism can reach their full potential, and early diagnosis is critical to making this a reality.”

If you’re a parent, you probably have questions about autism, such as: How many children are considered to be on the autism spectrum? Why is early diagnosis important? How do I know if my child has autism? Here is some important information to keep in mind!

Facts about autism

An estimated 3 million people in the U.S. and 70 million worldwide are affected by autism. Because autism is a spectrum disorder, each person with autism has a distinct set of strengths and challenges.

While autism can be diagnosed as early as 18 months, the signs can appear even earlier. Despite this, the average diagnosis for children with autism is 4 years and 3 months. Children in minority and low-income communities, where access to healthcare resources and screenings may be more difficult, are diagnosed even later in life.

Why early diagnosis matters

Autism research clearly shows that early intervention can help children improve their ability to learn, communicate and develop lifelong social skills. It can help parents and caregivers, too: Understanding your child’s autism diagnosis aids parents in developing their relationship with their child, helping them navigate their world so they can better reach their full potential throughout their lifetime. Selena says, “Trust your instincts. You know your child best. Do not wait to see if things change! Get your child tested right away. The sooner the better so therapy can target goals set for your child specifically.”

How is autism diagnosed?

One challenge to diagnosing autism is that one child may not exhibit the same signs as another child. This is why it is important for your child to be seen by a healthcare provider regularly and screened for autism, especially if you have concerns about their behavior or milestones.

Here are some crucial signs:

By 6 months

• Few or no big smiles or other joyful and engaging expressions
• Limited or no eye contact

By 9 months

• Little or no back-and-forth sharing of sounds, smiles or other facial expressions

By 12 months

Little or no:

• Babbling
• Back-and-forth gestures such as pointing, showing, reaching or waving
• Response to their name

By 16 months

• Very few or no words

By 24 months

• Very few or no meaningful, two-word phrases (not including imitating or repeating)

At any age

• Loss of previously acquired speech, babbling or social skills
• Avoidance of eye contact
• Persistent preference for solitude
• Difficulty understanding other people’s feelings
• Delayed language development
• Persistent repetition of words or phrases
• Resistance to minor changes in routine or surroundings
• Restricted interests
• Repetitive behaviors (flapping, rocking, spinning)
• Unusual and intense reactions to sounds, smells, tastes, textures, lights and/or colors

If you are recognizing these signs in your child, take the two-minute screening questionnaire at AutismSpeaks.org/screen-autism (for Spanish: AutismSpeaks.org/deteccion-temprana-autismo) that will help determine if a professional should evaluate your child.

The screening questions explore your child’s verbal and non-verbal communication, amongst other behaviors. Examples include:

• If you point at something across the room, does your child look at it?
• Is your child interested in other children?
• Does your child respond when you call his or her name?
• When you smile at your child, does he or she smile back at you?
• Does your child get upset by everyday noises?
• Does your child look you in the eye when you are talking to him or her?

If the screener shows that your child may have a greater chance of having autism — it is not a diagnosis. You should speak with your child’s healthcare provider about getting a full evaluation from a qualified medical specialist such as a neurologist, behavior pediatrician, or psychiatrist, who can provide a diagnosis.

Even after diagnosis, Autism Speaks can help your child: “Once Zamar was diagnosed, the clinic directed me to the ‘100 day kit’ book for newly diagnosed families and young children. It was very informative,” said Selena. “And then I signed up for the newsletters to stay connected and up to date on the latest resources and services. It’s great to have a sense of community for Zamar.”

Learn more about autism at AutismSpeaks.org.

2021-05-14T02:01:00

(BPT) – As summer approaches, it’s time to get outside and bask in the warmth and sunshine. But it’s not easy to bare your body when you have eczema. Those with eczema-prone skin know the signs and symptoms — the itchiness, redness and dryness that indicates a flare-up. Nothing can be more irritating, especially during summer months when you want to get out and show a little more skin.

Eczema is more common than you may think. According to the National Eczema Association (NEA), around 31 million people in America live with eczema, and one in 10 will develop eczema during their lifetime. The NEA cites a recent study that surveyed adults with moderate to severe eczema and found that nearly 86% reported daily itching. These symptoms can affect your comfort during the day, interrupt your sleep at night and even have a negative impact on your mental well-being.

“While some find their eczema is less problematic in the summer, for others, high temps and outdoor activities can cause eczema flare-ups,” said board-certified dermatologist Dr. Sheila Farhang. “Revamp your body care routine to adapt to the changing seasons. I recommend products made with dermatologist-recommend ingredients for long-lasting hydration to improve the look and feel of dry skin.”

Here are Dr. Sheila’s tips to help get you ready to bare that bod in time for summer.

1. Go easy on the showers

It’s natural to want to shower more frequently in the summertime. But if you’re not careful, over-showering can lead to dry, irritated skin. Take shorter, cooler showers — and avoid soap. Instead, choose a body wash that’s both gentle on your skin AND provides long-lasting hydration. Olay Body’s new Dermatologist Designed Collection is designed for people with sensitive skin. It’s made with dermatologist-recommended ingredients to address specific dry skin concerns, like Olay’s Soothing Body Wash with Oat Extract for eczema-prone skin, which delivers soothing hydration, leaving dry skin with long-lasting relief, and has been awarded the Seal of Acceptance™ from the National Eczema Association.

2. Protect your skin from the sun

Skin health experts agree that sunscreen is an essential tool in your summer body care arsenal. The American Academy of Dermatology recommends using sunscreen with SPF 30 or higher that provides broad-spectrum protection (against UVA and UVB rays) for any exposed skin — even on cloudy days. The National Eczema Association further recommends choosing a sunscreen that is alcohol free with mineral-based ingredients like titanium dioxide (TiO2) and zinc oxide (ZnO). Remember to reapply as directed or as recommended by your dermatologist.

3. Keep it cool

Cooling towels, breathable, loose-fitting or moisture-wicking clothing, and a wide-brimmed hat can help keep you cool physically, but did you know keeping it cool mentally is important too? Stress is a common eczema trigger, so consider mindful meditation, deep breathing, a good night’s sleep or some self-care to help lower stress and the potential for a flare-up.

4. Moisturize your skin while it’s damp

I love this tip! Moisturize immediately after showering, or better yet, before you even leave the shower. Moisture can evaporate from skin’s surface within a few minutes of bathing, and managing moisture is key for eczema-prone skin. Look for rinse-off body conditioners made with the #1 dermatologist-recommended moisturizing ingredient, petrolatum, for long-lasting hydration.

5. Hydrate from the inside to nourish the outside

Whether you’re lounging in the shade with your sun-protective gear or you’re staying active with outdoor activities, be sure to drink plenty of water to keep your skin hydrated. Limit sugary and alcoholic beverages since these can be dehydrating.

Looking to refresh your body care routine for summer? Check out more ways to prepare to be bare at Olay.com.

2021-05-14T00:01:00

(BPT) – A year into the pandemic and cabin fever has set in. The typical isolation and restlessness has many people looking for ways to update their homes to provide a sense of comfort and connection to the outdoors. The goal is to create a safe, calm oasis at home, drawing inspiration from biophilic designs, which means enhancements that focus on a human’s innate attraction to nature.

Outdoor projects are flourishing as people extend their living spaces to feel closer to their natural surroundings. Check out these top backyard renovations for 2021:

Water elements

There’s something serene about listening to the ocean waves or a bubbling brook, and people are bringing this feeling home by incorporating water elements into their outdoor spaces. The stress-reducing effect of listening to water is welcome during the many demands of the pandemic, plus water elements add to the outdoor aesthetic and beautify the space. Something as simple as a solar-powered fountain can work this magic, but many people are investing more money into permanent structures, such as garden streams, ponds and pondless waterfalls.

Full outdoor kitchens

Eating al fresco is wonderful for sharing meals, but cooking al fresco takes outdoor living to a whole new level. Outdoor kitchens are trending, with many people customizing patio spaces with a grill, hearth or pizza oven, refrigerator and even a sink thanks to above-floor plumbing solutions like the Sanivite drain pump from Saniflo. Typically for proper drainage, you would need conventional, below-floor plumbing, but above-the-floor options like Saniflo’s reliable drain pumps make it possible to add a sink and more where no drainage currently exists. After a full outdoor kitchen is established, people are rounding out these spaces with a dining table and even lounge chairs for conversing and making memories at home.

Functional landscaping

People are striving for thoughtful landscape designs that keep in mind their needs and the needs of the environment. For example, shade elements provide comfort, privacy and sound control, allowing spaces to be used for gathering or for work and study. Sustainable gardens are another good example, with people wanting the ability to produce herbs, vegetables and fruits at home. Beyond the garden plot, this includes container gardens, raised-bed gardens and integrating edibles into landscaping. People are enjoying the ability to get creative and exercise their green thumb.

Outdoor bathrooms

For people who have a pool, spa or detached workout space, having an outdoor bathroom can be a huge plus. However, it can also be costly and time-consuming to create one separate from the main home using conventional plumbing methods. Saniflo’s Sanicompact offers an alternative that requires no breaking up concrete or excavation to install expensive below-floor drainage. This self-contained macerating toilet is ideal for small spaces like a cabana or changing room where you’d also like to have a toilet. Plus, the dual-flush system saves water, which can help manage utility bills and support the environment. Learn more at www.saniflo.com.

Private, personalized outdoor rooms

With a bit of creativity and a strategic approach, people are creating outdoor “rooms” on their properties that are mini-escapes alongside Mother Nature. This might include creating a meditative garden in the corner of the yard, a yoga space for daily practice next to the patio, or a pathway that leads to a backyard bench that serves as a reading retreat. Hardscaping such as rocks and stone is often used to define these spaces while trees, shrubs and vines are used to add privacy. Homeowners are even incorporating their personal tastes into these spaces with sculpture, glass art or other garden decor.

The pandemic has had an undeniable influence on architectural, building and remodeling trends, with outdoor projects popular nationwide. These top projects reflect the human desire for connection to the natural world and to find comfort in outdoor-living opportunities.

2021-05-13T14:11:13

(BPT) – With a growing variety of labels and availability of plant-based alternatives, it can be difficult to know which milk is best for your family. Grass-fed milk is one option recently getting a lot of attention due to its high nutrient content and delicious taste, but despite the name, it isn’t made from grass. In fact, the grass in Organic Valley Grassmilk refers to what the cows eat, not what the milk is made from. This nutrient-rich milk comes from cows that are fed a grain-free diet that centers on grasses such as alfalfa and clover, the bovine equivalent to a healthy green salad.

“This diet more closely mimics a cow’s natural diet,” explained registered dietitian nutritionist Carly Knowles. “It makes sense that cows that roam a pasture freely and eat organic forage are happier, healthier and, therefore, make better milk. With so many people not getting enough dairy in their diets, organic 100% grass-fed milk is a tasty solution for people of all ages.”

In fact, about 90% of the U.S. population does not meet dairy recommendations, according to the Dietary Guidelines for Americans, 2020-2025. The new Dietary Guidelines suggest one strategy to increase dairy is to bump up intake of fat-free or low-fat forms, including milk.

Here are five eye-opening reasons organic 100% grass-fed milk should be in your refrigerator:

100% certified

Remember, the term “grass-fed” can mean a little or a lot, so look for the Grass-fed seal to know you are drinking genuine 100% grass-fed milk. All Organic Valley Grassmilk is made with milk from third-party certified grass-fed cows on organic family farms, which means that cows are on pasture for more than 150 days per year and are fed only 100% grass and dried forages year-round.

Proven superior nutrition

Extensive peer-reviewed research has recently proven that more grass in an organic cow’s diet translates to higher levels of beneficial omega-3’s, which support brain and eye health, especially in children, and the anti-inflammatory properties of conjugated linoleic acids (CLA). And, compared to plant-based milks, cow’s milk is a naturally good dietary source of necessary vitamins and minerals. A serving of cow’s milk contains calcium, vitamin D, vitamin A and a host of micronutrients that you need in your diet.

Sustainable and responsible

Milk from grass-fed cows raised on pasture promotes sustainability and healthy soil. The perennial grasses of pasture help prevent soil erosion and runoff. Cows use their own energy to harvest their food rather than trucking it in from elsewhere, reducing carbon footprint. Because cows are out roaming freely, the pastures get fertilized the natural way – direct from the source. Plus, animals eating organic food without the use of toxic pesticides, or GMOs means healthier cows and healthier ecosystems and waterways for all of us.

Tasty options for everyone

Because cows that produce this organic grass-fed milk are never fed grain, the result is milk with the subtle seasonal flavors of the pastures that consumers seek in a grass-fed product. Organic Valley Grassmilk offers something for everyone as a nationally distributed brand with a full line of organic 100% grass-fed milk, including Whole, Reduced Fat 2%, and now a Fat Free option.

Flavor and nutrition beyond the glass

The rich, delicious flavor of grass-fed milk is great when savored from a glass but equally delightful when used in recipes – in fact, it is interchangeable with dairy milk in all your favorite recipes. Visit www.organicvalley.coop/recipes for a creamy Homemade Yogurt recipe from Carly Knowles that intensifies the flavors and nutrients of grass-fed milk. Whether topped with fruit and a drizzle of honey or used as a base for a sauce or salad dressing, this yogurt is a real treat.

“You want to give your family the most nutritious options, and by researching and shopping mindfully, you can stock your kitchen with wholesome items that matter, such as Organic Valley Grassmilk,” says Knowles. “The grass is for the cows. The extra nutrition is for you!”

2021-05-13T08:31:00

(BPT) – The sun is shining, the breeze is fresh and Mother Nature is calling: Are you ready to answer the call of the outdoors? It’s easy to get into a rut where your family spends most of their time inside, often in front of screens or doing other sedentary activities. Spring is the ideal time to shift your focus and enjoy some bonding time with your family outside.

More than seven in 10 (72%) parents believe their families don’t spend enough time outside, according to a new survey of American parents with children ages 5 to 13, commissioned by the makers of Claritin^®. Furthermore, 49% of parents said their kids find the outdoors boring.

However, the survey also found that nearly two in three (63%) said their kids seem to be happy after playing outside. Being outdoors may offer numerous mental and physical benefits, so consider taking a proactive approach and plan your next family activities outside. Here are five fun ways to get out of the house and get into nature, no matter if you live in an urban, suburban or rural area.

Eat al fresco

Rather than eating at the kitchen table, enjoy your next family meal outdoors. Set up the patio for eating and you’ll be amazed how simply being outside makes the meal feel special, plus people tend to linger longer to chat and enjoy each other’s company. If you don’t have a table, spread out a big blanket on the patio or in the backyard and enjoy your meal picnic style. No blanket big enough? Lay out beach towels for each person for a fun take on outdoor dining.

Plant a garden

Planting a garden offers so many benefits for your family. In addition to being a reason to get outdoors regularly, it’s an educational opportunity for kids of all ages to learn about earth science and biology. It’s also a budget-friendly way to supplement your food purchasing, plus everyone feels proud growing their own fare and it can encourage healthier eating. Whether it’s a plot in the backyard, raised beds in the landscape or containers on the deck, this is a great outdoor opportunity for multigenerational family bonding.

Tune into The Outsideologist Project

Looking for a little inspiration? The Outsideologist Project, from the makers of Claritin^®, provides parents with tools and resources to inspire a love of the outdoors and aims to get 1.2 million kids to spend an extra hour per week outside. The Outsideologist Project also invites families to participate in livestreamed activities on their Instagram page (@OutsideologistProject). Hosted by experts in the fields of plants, animals, space, weather and nature photography, the guided activities provide families with plenty of ideas on things to do outside this spring and summer.

Plan a photo scavenger hunt

Get outside for a nature-themed photo scavenger hunt and enjoy the excitement of the search. Include items on the scavenger list that are appropriate for the ages in your family, striving to make the hunt engaging but not too difficult. Pair children up with adults, then reach for the camera and capture pictures of the items you find in your backyard or local parks. Photo scavenger hunt items could include leaves, sticks, rocks and other natural treasures.

Enjoy a backyard campout

You don’t need to travel to a big forest to enjoy an authentic campout experience. Just get creative in your own backyard! Pitch a tent, get out the blankets and sleep outside to feel like you’re away from home without giving up the conveniences. Tent not an option? Perhaps some backyard stargazing will provide the flavor of camp you crave. You can share stories, sing songs and find shapes in the stars while creating lasting memories with your family.

Worried about allergies? You’re not alone. The survey also found that 70% of parents said if seasonal allergies were less of a concern, their family would be outside more. If allergies prevent you too from exploring all the wonders nature has to offer, consider relief options to help you enjoy your time outside.

2021-05-13T07:01:01

(BPT) – It’s hard to keep up with the latest health and wellness trends, especially with so much conflicting information out there. In reality, one way to help navigate which approach to health and wellness is right for you is as simple as understanding the science behind giving your body what it needs — not the latest trends. While many fads may offer positive benefits, what’s most important is much easier to follow than the latest health craze.

Here are easy ways to focus on your health and wellness goals.

The mojo of movement

You’ve probably heard about prolonged sitting every day being bad for your health. In fact, the CDC published guidelines for exercise, recommending adults get 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous exercise per week — minimum. While that could mean 30 minutes a day, 5 days a week, you can also spread the activity throughout the week as you please. According to the CDC, more activity weekly helps lower your risk of diseases like type 2 diabetes and some forms of cancer, as well as helping to control your blood pressure.

Exercise can include anything that gets your heartrate going: brisk walking, running, cycling, swimming, or dancing. Add strength-building exercises a couple of times a week, such as weightlifting (talking to a medical professional is advised before beginning a new exercise program). The best forms of exercise are not necessarily whatever is trending on Instagram, but what you actually enjoy doing, and something that you can — and will — do regularly.

The power of vitamins and minerals

You can help improve your health by getting vitamins and minerals from a healthy diet, vitamin supplements — and the power of the sun. The National Institutes of Health recommends the following vitamins and minerals to help our bodies develop and function normally, including:

• Vitamins A, C, D, E and K
• B vitamins: B1-6, B12
• Minerals: Calcium, Phosphorus, Potassium, Sodium, Chloride, Magnesium, Iron, Zinc, Iodine, Sulfur, Cobalt, Copper, Fluoride, Manganese and Selenium

It’s good to know what foods provide essential nutrients for your body, for example:

• Calcium helps strengthen bones and tooth enamel. Calcium is found in dairy products, leafy greens, beans and almonds.
• Vitamin D can help increase mineral density and helps to absorb and deposit calcium in your bones, including those that support your teeth. Some dairy products and cereal are fortified with vitamin D, and you can also get it from the sun.
• Phosphorus can help protect and rebuild bones and tooth enamel, and helps repair cells and tissues. Good sources of phosphorus are meat, poultry, fish and eggs.
• Vitamin A can help support your immune system, eye health, keeping your gums healthy and building tooth enamel. Most foods with vitamin A are orange: sweet potatoes, cantaloupe and carrots.

Don’t forget your oral health

When you’re thinking about your overall wellness routine, put your teeth higher on the list. According to the Mayo Clinic, your oral health impacts your overall well-being, as well as providing signals of health concerns elsewhere in your body.

In addition, if you frequently consume highly acidic food, such as citrus fruits and trendy juice cleanses, that can contribute to the erosion of your tooth enamel. Minerals keep tooth enamel strong and white, but those acidic foods and drinks can dissolve the surface minerals.

It also helps to use a toothpaste specifically designed to protect your enamel. Pronamel Mineral Boost toothpaste was developed to maximize the effects of fluoride to boost absorption of calcium and phosphate into your teeth’s enamel surface for strong, white teeth, while also helping to protect them from sensitivity (with twice daily brushing).

You can still enjoy acidic foods and drinks, if you take preventive measures to safeguard your tooth enamel:

• Eating non-acidic food (like cheese) or drinking milk or water afterward
• Using a straw

And follow these brushing tactics:

• Wait 30 minutes after eating or drinking before brushing
• Use a soft-bristled toothbrush
• Brush at least 2 minutes, twice a day
• Get regular dental checkups every 6 months

Focusing on the basics — not just trends — can help you revamp your lifestyle so you can feel your best.

2021-05-13T08:01:00

(BPT) – Paid Content by Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc

Building a savings account can seem daunting. Many people believe they should have a high amount of savings tucked away, but then often become overwhelmed thinking about that goal. By shifting your mindset and taking small, achievable steps, you can reach your savings goals and more.

Keep in mind, if your savings is low or nonexistent, you’re not alone. Fewer than 40% of Americans could pay an unexpected $1,000 bill with their savings, according to a recent survey. The pandemic has presented countless challenges for many people, and even if you tapped your savings to make ends meet, you can always restart and refocus.

The good news is there are simple steps you can take to establish a savings account and help you reach other goals like a down payment on a new home, or extra payments on the principal balance of an existing mortgage loan. Vanderbilt Mortgage is happy to share its 2021 Home Loan Guide created to help educate and prepare homebuyers for a mortgage.

Here are three simple steps to start a successful savings plan:

Set a realistic goal

It may not be realistic for you to start saving $500 a month, but that doesn’t mean you can’t save an amount that makes you comfortable. Consider $50, $25 or even $5 if that sounds reasonable. Starting with a small, realistic goal can help you stick to a savings plan. Tracking your goals builds excitement, whether that’s for an emergency fund or to buy a new home. Visibly seeing progress reinforces your goals and you can be proud of building momentum.

Create and stick to a budget

There is power in knowing the exact amount of money coming in and going out each month, so budgeting is an essential step in understanding your finances and guiding your saving efforts. If you budget and find a surplus, consider using that extra money to bolster your savings. If there is a deficit, reevaluate and decide what adjustments can be made. Understand necessities versus nice-to-have expenses and find ways to make your money work for your situation.

Know your “why”

Building a savings takes time, but having a motivation for your commitment can support your success. Whether it’s to have a safety net or you’re saving for a down payment on a home, a goal can help keep you focused, which means you are more likely to follow through.

If you’re interested in buying a new home, you might not need as much down payment as you think. Apply now at Vanderbilt Mortgage and learn about financing programs that fit your budget. If you already have a loan with Vanderbilt, consider paying ahead or even paying extra towards your principal balance; this will help you pay your mortgage loan off earlier.

These three initial steps can give anyone a guiding start to building a savings account to help them reach their goals. To access the 2021 Home Loan Guide and to get more details about smart steps you can take to save, visit www.vmf.com. Remember, just like a runner needs to train from completing a mile to completing a marathon, the best way to build a savings account is with consistent, achievable steps.

All loans are subject to credit approval.

Vanderbilt Mortgage and Finance, Inc., 500 Alcoa Trail, Maryville, TN 37804, 865-380-3000, NMLS #1561, (http://www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org/), AZ Lic. #BK-0902616, Loans made or arranged pursuant to a California Financing Law license, GA Residential Mortgage (Lic. #6911), MT Lic. #1561, Licensed by PA Dept. of Banking. Equal Housing Opportunity.