15 September 2025

6 powerful ways women can master their wealth and conquer financial stress

Money worries can affect anyone, regardless of their background, level of wealth, or stage of life.

Yet, new research published by FTAdviser (14 July 2025) has revealed that women are disproportionately affected by financial stress. 16% of women said they feel anxious about their financial situation compared to just 9% of men.

Moreover, a quarter of women rated their financial health as “poor” or “very poor” compared to 18% of men.

If financial concerns are keeping you awake at night, keep reading to discover six effective strategies for overcoming unhealthy levels of money-related stress and regaining control of your wealth.

1. Improve your financial literacy

According to PA Future (7 March 2025), only 19% of women feel they received a good education on money management in school, compared to 23% of men. Indeed, more women than men in every age group said they had limited or no understanding of financial products such as investments, mortgages, pensions, and insurance.

This uncertainty may lead to excessive stress and anxiety. In contrast, bolstering your financial knowledge could boost your confidence and your wellbeing.

There are plenty of resources (both free and paid for) you can use to educate yourself about money matters, such as podcasts and mobile phone apps. A financial planner can also help you learn key skills such as budgeting, investing, and managing your wealth tax-efficiently.

2. Create a budget

Understanding what you have coming in and going out each month, and setting clear limits on your spending, is a crucial step towards feeling in control of your wealth.

By carefully monitoring your finances, you may be able to:

Avoid or reduce debt
Identify spending patterns
Increase your financial awareness
Spot opportunities to make your money stretch further.

Ongoing tracking also allows you to adapt your budget in line with changing circumstances, such as a salary increase or a divorce.

Remember to allow some room in the budget for luxuries – you’re less likely to stick to a plan that’s no fun.

3. Build an emergency fund

Having a savings pot you can dip into if your income falls or you receive an unexpected bill could be a powerful strategy for alleviating stress.

An emergency fund may also give you the freedom to leave a challenging situation, such as an unhealthy work environment or a difficult relationship.

As a general rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to have at least three to six months of your essential living expenses set aside for such situations.

However, the amount you need to feel confident and secure – no matter what the future holds – will depend on your specific circumstances. For example, if you support a child or other family member financially or pay for their care, you may wish to build a larger safety net to cover you both.

4. Make your money work harder by investing

If you’re worried about your financial situation, developing new ways to save for the future or increasing your income could be a smart way to feel more secure.

While the value of your cash savings may be eroded by inflation over time, investing some of your wealth could potentially deliver higher long-term returns.

You could also create income from your investments by adding bonds, dividend-paying shares, or rental property to your portfolio.

If you’re not sure how to get started with investing, or you need help reviewing your existing portfolio, I can help you develop a strategy that aligns with your needs, goals, and risk tolerance.

5. Take out financial protection

Research suggests there is a close link between uncertainty and stress. A 2016 study published by nature communications, found that participants who were told they may receive a small electric shock were more stressed than those who knew they definitely would be shocked.

Indeed, if you’re uncertain whether you could cope financially in the event of an unexpected change of circumstances – such as becoming too ill to work – this may cause significant anxiety.

In contrast, putting adequate financial protection in place could offer valuable peace of mind that you and your dependants will be provided for if life takes an unplanned turn.

For example, critical illness cover could provide a financial lifeline if you’re diagnosed with a serious illness. While life insurance taken out on your partner or ex-partner might ensure that you and your family remain financially secure in the event of their death.

As such, taking out appropriate financial protection might be an effective way to alleviate uncertainty and stress about the future.

6. Reach out for support

If you feel anxious about your financial situation or concerned about your long-term security, reach out to someone you trust.

Friends and family may be able to give you the emotional support you need to regroup and regain control of your financial wellbeing. Often, talking through a problem or concern can help reduce the stress it causes.

Of course, you might not feel comfortable discussing your finances with those closest to you, or perhaps you need guidance on specific matters.

If so, consider speaking to an empathetic financial planner who can offer impartial, expert guidance. They can help you work through your stress, improve your financial knowledge, and create a plan for achieving your goals – empowering you to take control of your wealth.

Get in touch

If you’re feeling stressed about your finances and would like to create a plan that gives you confidence and control over your wealth, I can help.

To find out more, please get in touch by email at lottie@truefinancialdesign.co.uk or call 03300889138.

Please note

This article is for general information only and does not constitute advice. The information is aimed at retail clients only.

All information is correct at the time of writing and is subject to change in the future.

The value of your investments (and any income from them) can go down as well as up and you may not get back the full amount you invested. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.

Investments should be considered over the longer term and should fit in with your overall attitude to risk and financial circumstances.

A pension is a long-term investment not normally accessible until 55 (57 from April 2028). The fund value may fluctuate and can go down, which would have an impact on the level of pension benefits available. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future performance.

The tax implications of pension withdrawals will be based on your individual circumstances. Thresholds, percentage rates, and tax legislation may change in subsequent Finance Acts.

Note that life insurance and financial protection plans typically have no cash in value at any time and cover will cease at the end of the term. If premiums stop, then cover will lapse.

Cover is subject to terms and conditions and may have exclusions. Definitions of illnesses vary from product provider and will be explained within the policy documentation.

6 powerful ways women can master their wealth and conquer financial stress

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