I discussed previously why clinicians can throw out the word retirement and instead focus on financial independence. I like to talk about growing toward financial independence as this really captures the developmental process over a period of time to build and compound savings and other assets. Just like with human development, the growth process is heavily physical and mental. Here are some key steps.

1. Fuel up as much as you can. Yes, having a higher income will always make financial growth easier. I do want to emphasize that any income level, especially one earned by a clinical professional with an advanced degree, should be sufficient for growing toward financial independence. The only difference will be in how quickly you get there and how you style your life along the way.
2. Get financially fit by exercising your budgeting skills. We all know that both food and movement are keys to success  when developing a great physique. The best way to become financially fit and grow toward independence is through budgeting. I’m sure you all know the person who loves to exercise and it’s a way of life that comes naturally, while others hate it and have to be pushed off their butts. However, we know that doing at least a little bit consistently is good for everyone. The same is true for budgeting. If you can push yourself to consistently incorporate budgeting for the biggest expenditure categories, you’ll be on your way toward financial independence.
3. The more you know, the stronger you’ll be. Financial education is a secret sauce when it comes to growing wealth. I recommend reading a combination of basic money and finance texts, combined with individual perspectives from financial advisors and regular people with an interest in sharing knowledge (like this blog!). It’s always a good idea to learn some of the basics for yourself, but reading perspective blogs can help to make sense of it all and following a plan that works for your lifestyle! A good adviser or blogger should be upfront about the boundaries of their expertise. 
4. Get mentally tough. As clinicians, we are used to making recommendations for others and see how challenging following any plan can be. Keeping up energy and commitment to a plan is a necessary part of growing wealth. 
5. Embrace the look of growing wealth. On the path toward financial independence, your accounts are looking healthier and healthier, but it’s natural to wonder how you look on the outside. The confidence that you will gain knowing that you are moving toward financial freedom goes far. Clinicians have to navigate enough at work to avoid stress that getting control over your lifestyle and moving toward financial freedom starts to lift that burden. Although they might not be able to put their finger on it, soon others will be wondering how you look so satisfied with your lifestyle.