We asked three
Here are their responses:
“Focus first on paying off debt with high interest rates, then invest for long-term goals. Creating a budget, maintaining an emergency fund and using a balanced approach helps build wealth while reducing financial stress and risk over time.”
—Ebele Gunn, financial advisor, Spring, Texas
“Financial progress doesn’t have to be an either-or decision. By tackling high-interest debt while still investing consistently, you create momentum on both fronts. Reducing costly debt strengthens your financial foundation today, while investing allows compounding to work quietly in the background—helping you build long-term wealth with every step forward.”
—Jordan Mitchell, virtual financial consultant, Virtual Advice Team
“Balancing investing and debt most often comes down to mindset. Paying down debt can create a sense of control and motivation toward your goals, while investing builds confidence in a secure future. I encourage people to choose a balance that keeps motivation high and helps them stay consistent over time. I ask my clients how they would eat an elephant—the answer is one bite at a time.”
—Jackie Breed, financial advisor, Mills, Wyoming
