Reflective Writing

In the process of obtaining my Associates Degree in General Study I have enjoyed

learning principles that will prepare me for virtually any career of my choosing. In this class I
can identify objectives I have learned through much study and contemplation including:
developing quantitative literacies and critical thinking skills; I will expound on both of these
skills that I have developed in this reflective writing.
First, I have developed quantitative literacies in various aspects which will determine the
success of my life. It is important to set measurable and obtainable goals prior to a process of any
kind whether it be academic achievement, career, family, financial, spiritual, physical, mental
and emotional goals. When it comes to finance I have learned how to build a foundation of
success and responsibility. It is important to evaluate my current financial state and then to re-
evaluate it regularly, even perhaps weekly/monthly/yearly. In doing so, I will then become a
progressively more self-reliant, maintain financial security, decrease the risk of financial stress
and/or failure, and pursue the desire to offer not only excess but sacrifice a generous portion of
my earnings to those less fortunate.
Second, I have developed my critical thinking skills. Throughout this personal finance
course I have read, viewed and pondered various real-life situations at which either exemplified
financial success or financial failure. These stories were stimulating to my decision-making
mentality. I learned to think thoroughly, thoughtfully and patiently about the cause and effect of
my everyday decisions. There is absolutely an interconnectedness between every aspect of our
lives. Our lifestyle decisions effect our financial decisions. Some of those decisions are positive
and of our choosing, while others are forcibly a result of the impulsive purchases or excessive
spending. It is important to consider alternatives when making any decision. Our critical thinking
skills will impact our choices and, therefore, the outcome of each day and ultimately our life.
This is an important skill that I have developed in this course.
Overall, I have enjoyed learning and developing several pertinent skills that will ensure
lifelong success and satisfaction. I plan to use these skills in my field of work and in my
everyday life. I appreciate all those who have contributed to my academic growth including my
personal finance professor, Joseph Howell, the inspiring stories of individuals contained in the
course materials and the authors of the textbook provided for my study and application. I look
forward to putting quantitative literacies, critical thinking and other skills into action starting
now and seeing them develop further throughout my life.