In Case You Missed It: August Recap
All of the articles/episodes from August & everything else in between
Welcome to the 4 new “In-Between‘s” who have joined us since last weekend! Join the 350 others by subscribing here if you haven’t already 📩:
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How to Write a Check + Balance Your Checkbook
Many of you may have never written out a check, I am here to help you prepare for when that comes
A Major Milestone
You might be saying “C’mon Griffin, this isn’t a major milestone.” Well, I beg to differ. If you are finding yourself needing to have a checkbook, making major payments using checks – then you are probably more self-reliant and responsible than you realize.
Writing out checks might not seem as commonplace in today’s world, but it is still used enough that it is important for everyone to learn this simple task. I promise it’s not that hard.
Follow along as we go over how to even get a checkbook (you must start somewhere), an easy 6-step process of writing out a check, and how to balance that checkbook of yours.
Obtaining a Checkbook
This is the easiest step. All you need to do is follow one of these two paths:
1. Go to a local branch of your bank and talk to a representative about getting a checkbook that is linked to your account.
-or-
2. Login to your mobile banking app and find the section explaining how to order checks for your account.
Boom! That’s it. You should have a checkbook full of checks in no time. See how easy that was?
Writing a Check
When writing out a check it is easiest to always go in the same pattern for every check. This helps you to not get any of the lines confused with one another and organize all of the important information that goes on a check.
Step 1: Pay to the order of
This basically means, “Who are you paying this money?” Filling out who the check is for is always a great place to begin. The line for you to write this information is labeled, “pay to the order of.” This will either be a person’s name or a company name.
Try to be as clear and specific as possible here. If you are paying a company for their services, make sure that is what you are writing, not an individual person’s name. There should be no discrepancy about who the money is intended for.
See below these nifty diagrams to help visualize the line of the check we are discussing. Below is an example of what you could write on the, “pay to the order of” line.
Step 2: Write out the date
Dating anything is always a good idea. Dating a check is a step you cannot forget. In the top right corner of the check, you will see a date section where you will write out the current date. Did you catch that? Write the date of when the check is being written, NOT the date you plan to give it to someone, or any other random day in the past or future.
There’s a little repetition just in case you get confused on which date to put in this section.
Check out the example below!
Step 3: Write a memo
Step One explains how and where to write who the check is for. The memo section at the bottom is where you write what the check/payment is for. Examples of services you might be using a check for are August rent, car windshield replacement, Fall 2021 tuition, etc. Be very specific. This is not like Venmo where you can write, “Last night’s tacos, bro!!!” with three taco emojis and a beer emoji. The people trying to cash that check are going to have a very difficult time explaining that one.
This specificity is beneficial for both parties involved because it helps remind everyone what this payment is for. This is also important for your own records when you are balancing your checkbook. Don’t worry, we will get there😉.
Step 4: The specific amount (in numbers)
Time to put down the actual amount you are paying. Make this section as clear as possible and use your best handwriting. Make sure you include the dollar amount and the cents. If the numbers are not written out well, the ATM or bank teller will not be able to process the check and it will just cause a headache for you. So, it is best to take your time on this section. Note that the dollar symbol ($) is already provided for you, no need to rewrite it.
Step 5: The specific amount (in words…not kidding)
That long line through the middle of the check is for the dollar amount, written out in words. You just wrote the amount on the right side in numbers. Now it is time to write it out in words. When writing out the amount in word form there are only two things you need to remember:
1. Write out the dollars & cents in word form
2. If there is any excess white space, draw a line through it so nobody can add words to what you wrote (a security precaution)
That’s it! Check out the example below with the payment amount used in Step 4.
Step 6: Add your signature
Finally, do not forget to sign the check on the bottom right-hand line. Once you have signed it with your legal signature, you are good to go! Make sure that you use the signature you use on all bank documents to ensure that the bank knows without any doubt that is your check with your signature.
Once that is complete, voila! You did it!
Balancing a Checkbook
Each checkbook you receive from the bank will come with a pad of labeled rows and columns to keep track of withdrawals and deposits made from your accounts. “Balancing your checkbook” is a fancy way of saying “double checking that the deposits and withdrawals from your account identically match with the checks you have written out and the checks you have received.”
The way I do this is, whenever I write a check, I immediately fill out the statements to reflect that amount and description before I forget. Once the check is cashed properly, I check it off the list.
I do this on repeat for not only checks I write, but for checks I receive as well. The image below shows an example of a balanced checkbook to give you a better idea of how one of these statements could be filled out. This is not my checkbook, it is an internet image, FYI.
It is simple, and everyone has their own system to their checkbook, so find what works for you!
Time to Start Writing Checks:
Writing checks might be outdated compared to technological ways to exchange money like Venmo and Zelle, but like paying taxes and buying houses, it will always be around. Take some time to get yourself a checkbook and learn how to use it. We were never taught in school, but The In-Between community is always here to help!
Cheers!
My Top 5 Cryptos With The Most Utility
Let’s explore what exactly these cryptocurrencies were developed for
Why Crypto is Actually Important?
In recent months we have seen major swings in crypto market prices. Most of them are because of the volatility mixed with crazy trading patterns. Unlike common stocks that move based on statistics and business developments, cryptocurrencies are in the mania stage of growth.
Basically, there is not always rhyme or reason to certain price movements. This is a problem because people are becoming more interested in cryptocurrencies without wanting to invest in the infrastructure these coins are trying to create.
After some research I have picked out the top five cryptos that, in my opinion, have the most utility in today’s world. Before you ask, no, they are not listed in any order. So, follow along and let’s dive right into the list!
*Please remember that this is not financial advice and is for educational purposes only. Always consult a trained financial expert when wanting to invest.
Top 5 Crypto’s with the most utility
1. Bitcoin (BTC)
Remember in this article, the focus is utility, so not every component of each stock might be addressed in this article. Feel free to check out any of the previous articles about cryptocurrency!
Why is Bitcoin all the rave? Well, that is because it uses blockchain technology. When you think of blockchain, you might think of some crazy amount of code you could not possibly understand. You might be right, but simply put, blockchain is basically a ledger system. This one is particularly great because it is decentralized. Decentralized means there are no overarching powers controlling it.
Bitcoin’s utilization comes down to two basic themes:
1. A currency that can be traded and transacted
2. Store of value (Investment purposes)
Think about how we use the dollar here in America. That is what Bitcoin can be, but fully digital, decentralized, and have asset limited supply.
Source : https://blockgeeks.com/guides/what-is-bitcoin/
2. Ethereum (ETH)
What people love about Ethereum is that it is completely different from Bitcoin. Even though many compare the two, the claim does not hold water once you investigate the facts about each currency.
Ethereum is a blockchain platform built to let developers produce applications that are decentralized. This leads to all the great features that Ethereum brings to the table on this blockchain platform:
The actual cryptocurrency of Ethereum -> Ether
Computer programs that help the exchange of assets called “Smart Contracts”
The Ethereum Virtual Machine allows users to test out their smart contracts before deploying them on the blockchain
DAO’s (Decentralized Autonomous Organizations) & Dapps (Decentralized Applications)
Source : https://blockgeeks.com/guides/ethereum/
3. Litecoin (LTC)
When you read the name, it sounds a lot like Bitcoin. That is not a coincidence. Litecoin is compared to Bitcoin in the same way that silver is to gold. The structure of Litecoin is a lot like Bitcoin but has one key difference that brings its utility up.
Litecoin has a faster block generation rate, which in turn leads to faster transactions and faster confirmations on those transactions. Both of which are very important regarding currencies.
Like Bitcoin, Litecoin is already being accepted around the world as payment.
Source : https://coinsutra.com/litecoin-cryptocurrency/
4. Stellar Lumens (XLM)
This crypto is all about the institutional category. We all make small transactions every day. But what about how massive companies transfer hundreds of thousands of dollars?
Stellar Lumens is a blockchain network that is open for this exact purpose. Why do we need something like this? Because with large transactions in today’s world it takes a lot of work. This extra work includes things like:
Taking multiple days
Costing money to transfer money
Lots of 3rd party intermediaries
This is only one of the utilities of Stellar. The other use case is that their open blockchain can work like any other blockchain where people can transfer and transact currencies.
Source : https://coincentral.com/what-is-stellar-lumens-a-beginners-guide/
5. Cardano (ADA)
Cardano, or as some call it, Ethereum’s biggest competition. This is because the founder of Cardano was a previous founding member of Ethereum.
Cardano has a lot of the same features as Ethereum, but the biggest difference is Cardano is looking to produce different financial products based on the theme of decentralization.
These products would include things like:
Contract tracing for legal purposes
Voting infrastructure for fraud avoidance
Blockchain compatibility solutions
Healthy competition in any market is good. The fact that Cardano and Ethereum are creating similar products is exactly what the world needs to create the best products in crypto.
Source : https://blockgeeks.com/guides/what-is-cardano/
A Grandfather's Instructions for Life - Part 2
Back with the second half of instructions that will not only help you, but will help everyone around you as well
Life:
When I was a kid, my Granddad, and hero/mentor/idol gave me a list entitled, “A Grandfather’s Instructions for Life.” Confused, I read through this extensive list not having a strong grasp on what all these rules meant. My Granddad simply told me to refer to this list often throughout my life, and always keep a smile on my face. I took his word for it, and as I grew up, I referred to this list more times than I can count. Even as a grown man I still read through the sentimental list when I am needing Grandad’s advice.
As I was pondering the topic of my next newsletter, it dawned on me that rather than keeping this wisdom to myself, I should share it with others in the hopes that it will help you all in the way that it has helped me so many times. I will be listing out each instruction, one by one, and giving a little blurb of my own thoughts and feelings. Grandad was a very thorough man with lots to share, so this the second half of his life instructions.
Without further a due, Grandad’s Instructions for Life - Part 2:
Read as often as you can.
This is a great rule to start with because we live in a world where there is an abundance of content being produced by such amazing minds. Utilize the resources around you and try to read something not on a device daily. Be a curious person and read about subjects you wish to know more about. Reading is what helps our brains to grow and expand into purposeful and critical thinkers.
Be willing to lose a battle to win the war.
This is a metaphorical way of saying, remember to shift your perspective into long-term thinking rather than short-term and narrow-minded thinking. Realizing you cannot win everything will bring you so much peace.
Avoid gossip.
Gossiping is often a guilty pleasure and/or something we do subconsciously when interacting with others. Gossiping is also, however, a toxic and hurtful behavior that can only cause problems. Assumptions are the basis of gossiping, and you know what happens when you assume. You make an ass out of u and me. Get it? It spells assume.
Beware of the person who has nothing to lose.
If I had helped Grandad write these life instructions, I probably would have suggested a different word other than “beware” because this makes it sound spooky, which it is not at all. This rule means you should always keep your eye out for people who have the least to lose – they will often be the ones taking the biggest risks. This might be someone you want on your side for bold, creative ideas, or it could be someone you need to be hesitant around as they might do something rash. Use your judgement on that one, but just know “beware” is a bit harsh.
When facing a difficult task, act as though it is impossible to fail.
Nothing would ever get done in this world if we all just stopped when an obstacle presented itself. Shifting into a growth mindset will work wonders on your ability to persevere through a challenging or difficult task. Develop the ability to shift into that mindset to set yourself up for a lifetime – personal and career – for success.
Don’t spread yourself to thin. Learn to say no politely and quickly.
I am just going to flat-out say that this is a very difficult skill to have. I can attest to how difficult this can be because I always feel like I am being mean or rude. The bottom line is, though, there are not enough hours in the day for us to do everything we have to do and everything we want to do. Practicing being direct and polite is the goal everyone should strive for when turning something down.
Don’t expect life to be fair.
Life is not always fair, people!! Do not let that tear you down, stop you from trying something, or reaching for your goals. There are many paths out there that you can take to reach your goals. All you must do is find them. Pick yourself up when you get knocked down and show life that you aren’t just going to roll over.
Never underestimate the power of forgiveness.
This one is short and sweet. With forgiveness, comes peace of mind. When you forgive, you often find closure. Closure is what helps you move from one phase of life to another with no regrets, no grudges, and no bridges burned.
Substitute the word opportunity for the word problem.
Think of problems as blessings in disguise. Problems are only problems if you give them the power to be. There is usually a way to get around many problems you face on a day-to-day basis. So go out and find the one that works best for you!
Never walk out on a quarrel with your spouse.
I am sure everyone has heard this pearl of wisdom from their parents as well. Walking out on any argument is wrong, but especially with you partner or your spouse. Okay, yes, sometimes we get into intense arguments with people where the only way to diffuse the situation is to walk away. The second piece to this rule is to never go to bed angry. Do not let your spouse or family member go to bed angry either. Work through your disagreement before the day is over.
Be bold. When you look back on your life, you will regret the things you didn’t do more than the things you did.
If there is one thing that you have always wanted to do but never have, ask yourself: Why haven’t you? Live with the excitement and feeling of making your dream happen rather than the feeling of regret and missed opportunity. For all we know, we only have one shot at this thing called life, don’t waste it wondering, “what if.”
Forget committees. New, noble world changing ideas always come from the one person working alone.
It is a misconception that working in a group is always better than working independently. If you want to do something, just start, and surely other like-minded people will follow. The word entrepreneur has become such a buzz word today based on this idea. If you create something great, great people will follow.
When faced with a serious health problem always get a second opinion.
There is not much to say on this matter, it should be common knowledge to always have health issues and health concerns evaluated by a team of experts. Make sure the medical team you have around you is a strong one and are people whom you trust with your life…literally.
After encountering inferior service, food, or products, politely bring it to the attention of the person in charge. Good managers will appreciate knowing.
Key word here is politely. We all have those friends who are rude to service workers. That is not what this life instruction is insinuating. Companies/people want to know how they can improve their work, so handling it in a polite way will serve everyone better in this situation. Always be kind when bringing this to someone’s attention, you never know the kind of day they are having.
Do not procrastinate.
Procrastination kills. Literally. Most things in your life that never get done are because of procrastination. So, start shifting to a growth mindset here, and taking note of when you feel like you are procrastinating so you can fix those behaviors.
Do what needs to be done when it needs to be done.
Basically, don’t procrastinate. In the words of television and cinema star, Shia Labeouf, “JUST DO IT!”
Wage war against littering.
We live on a planet that gives us more than we could ever need. So, why are we trying to hurt it by littering? Take it upon yourself to stop littering and pick up garbage when you see it to keep our Earth clean. Do you really want to have to leave and move to Mars or something?? The inconvenience of that thought should be all the motivation you need to pick up garbage.
Get your priorities straight. No one ever said on his deathbed, “Gee, I wish I’d spent more time at the office”.
Do what you are passionate about and remember to live life. At the end of the day, we reflect on the things we did in life, not work. So, go live it!
Don’t be afraid to say, “I don’t know” or “I’m sorry.”
These two phrases are so powerful because people under use them. Swallowing your pride and using one of these simple phrases instead of deflecting or not taking ownership will benefit you in ways you might not understand. Think back to how well something went when you apologized, or a time when someone apologized to you for their wrongs. Do what you know is right and send that good energy out into the universe.
Make a list of 25 things you want to do in your lifetime. Refer to it often.
We might not be able to do everything on our bucket list, so make a shorter list of what you want to do. It might be a shortened version but keep your dreams big. Then, refer to this list as you plan ways to complete these things in your lifetime.
Never stop learning. You can never know enough.
I cannot emphasize this last instruction enough. Never give up on learning, never stop being curious and seeking answers to things you wonder about. Let yourself continue to learn, grow, evolve, and reach your fullest potential.
Featured Newsletters
This week we have another great collaboration with great newsletters! Check them out below and subscribe!
The Green Fix
By: Cass Hebron
Broke, busy and bombarded by conflicting information about the climate? Same.
The Green Fix is a newsletter that goes out every two weeks full of information and free practical resources for who’s interested in helping fight the climate crisis and build a greener world.
You don’t need to be a climate expert - you just need to care.
Sign up for free: thegreenfix.substack.com/welcome
You Should Definitely Share: The In-Between Newsletter
This newsletter has been growing so much since I started it in August 2020! We are already up to 350 subscribers. Let’s keep the momentum going!
I want this newsletter to be for anyone, all ages, and all backgrounds.
Like I said above, I feel like the public school system does not always teach us some of the most important information we need to be ready for the real world. And so, The In-Between Newsletter was born. I write about topics ranging from career, finances, personal development, and everything else in between that I think everyone would benefit from.
So, if you know anyone that would benefit from a weekly newsletter written by a great, humorous, overall exceptional writer, then share the link and just put in an email!
I appreciate all the endless support and look forward to growing this thing even bigger.