Stubbin Watson Bryan & Witucky Co., L.P.A. - February 2025

Brew-tally Honest The Perks and Pitfalls of Caffeine

cancer, strokes, and Alzheimer’s disease. There’s even proof that coffee can reduce depression, thanks to the other acids in the drink that reduce inflamed nerve cells in the brains of people with depression. Buzz Kill Caffeine can be a needed pick-me-up, but it can also feed the grind that keeps you up at night or gives you anxiety. Tea and coffee can interfere with essential neurotransmitters like dopamine. This disruption can lead to a lack of motivation, irritability, and restlessness. Drinking too much of these fine brews can make you nervous, impact your sleep, and cause your body to go into flight or fight mode. For people who are already suffering from depression, the drink can cause your symptoms to worsen. So, as you drink your morning java, just remember to find the balance with the beans. Caffeine can be the ultimate mood booster, but too much will make you feel wired instead of wonderful!

Perk up, coffee lovers. We’re about to spill the beans on how the beloved brew can

be a friend and foe to our mental health. Caffeine can lift our spirits, energize us, sharpen our focus, and even counteract the effects of depression. But this popular stimulant can also lead to jitters, anxiety, and withdrawal symptoms if we sip too much. Grab a cup of Joe, and let’s explore the perks and pitfalls of this flavorful fuel. Buzz Behind the Boost Studies have found that moderate doses of caffeine can have perks. This naturally occurring stimulant can help with weight loss, alertness, brain function, memory, and physical performance. Caffeine can also guard against certain types of

BETTER BUDGETING THE BENEFITS OF THE 50/30/20 RULE

For many people, getting the most out of their hard-earned money can be a challenge. Thankfully, the 50/30/20 rule is here to help! This simple budgeting rule is straightforward, easy to remember, and useful (if you stick to it). According to the rule, you should take 100% of your after- tax income and allocate it in three different ways: 50% for needs, 30% for wants, and 20% for savings. For more on how to use the rule, read on! Needs Half of your money should be put toward necessary expenses: groceries, utility bills, health care expenses, loans, mortgages, and other payments. However, you may need more than 50% of your money to cover your mandatory expenses, and the remaining money should be split between wants and savings as evenly as possible. Your needs could also require less than half

of your after-tax income. In this case, use the leftover money to pay down loans and debts so you will have more money to dedicate to savings and wants in the future. Wants What good is life if you can’t enjoy yourself? The rule says you should apply 30% of your after-tax income toward your wants. This portion can be spent on everything from tickets to see your favorite sports teams, a premier “Jurassic Park”-themed pinball machine, or eating out at a restaurant. However, it should only apply to things you want to spend money on immediately — not long-term investments. Savings The last 20% is the money you save for a rainy day. It can be cash you are saving for a dream vacation, money invested

in a 401(k), or simply put into a savings account. Any long-term investment you make will fall into this category. While the 50/30/20 rule is not an exact science, it is worthwhile for budgeting your money responsibly and equitably!

2 • swbwlawfirm.com

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