Last Updated Jan 2013
After all your hard work and determination, you have been rewarded with a pay raise and have been promoted. So now, what do you do with the money? Are you planning to go on a cruise to Hawaii or getting yourself a hot convertible? Sorry to burst your bubble therapy professionals but that's not what you're going to do. Let's be practical here.
When you didn't have it, you didn't need it. Now that you have the money, why do you have to spend it all? Confused? Let me explain. You live comfortably with the salary you get as a therapist but you don't save much or keep it for investment. Now that you're getting a raise and bringing that extra 10 percent home, why not start investing?
A wise man in Babylon said, "Pay yourself first." He simply means that you should invest in yourself and your future before spending money unnecessarily. Live within or below your means and start saving for emergencies and for the future. You never know when the money will come in handy.
You can also save a little amount every month for an amazing vacation or holiday gifts. This can be a Christmas or birthday treat for yourself and at the same time, you're saving too! After thinking about what your life could 
be after saving a little every month, it will definitely be easy to work hard for that retirement condo on the beach.
There are companies that offer a 401(k) or 403(b). This is free money that if you are not investing, you are losing. If you are not sure on what to invest in, you can always speak to investment experts at your bank or even at an investment firm such as Edelmen Financial Services, an independent investment advisory firm that offers investment portfolio reviews.
Protect what you have, therapy professionals. Enjoy the raise by investing in you!
Therapy professionals, if you enjoy writing or would like to share your expertise and are interested in becoming a PutMeBackTogether contributor, please click here.