It seems like over the past few weeks I have been reading and hearing about stories of people who won the lottery. There is also the reality TV show on TLC that chronicles the stories of people who spent their millions after winning the lottery. I can only think that if I was lucky enough to win millions of dollars in the lottery that I would be responsible enough to not blow it on cars, jewellery and houses. I don’t live an extravagant life now and I would like to think that it wouldn’t change if I won the lottery. Of course my life would improve, but I definitely wouldn’t waste all of the money.
What would you do if you won the lottery?
This is what I would do if I won the lottery:
1. Travel More Often. I would make a point to travel at least twice a year if I won the lottery. My travel style wouldn’t change but it would definitely improve. I don’t like a lot of attention and I wouldn’t be staying in high roller suites or anything like that. I would maybe travel to better destinations and travel more frequently. I would also have a little bit of extra spending money in my pocket, but I definitely wouldn’t flaunt it.
2. Work Towards My Dream Job. If I didn’t have the pressure of having to earn a paycheck I would take advantage of my new found financial windfall to quit my day job in the bank and continue working towards my dream job as an author. I would attend conferences and take some time to promote my (soon to be released) book through speaking events and appearances (assuming that people like my book).
3. Share a Bit with My Family and Friends. I would give a fixed amount of money i.e. $25,000 to each of my immediate family members (there are maybe 15) who have always been in my life and supportive of my endeavours. Family members who I have not spoken to in years or who have been absent from my life would not be a part of my new found wealth. I would also share a fixed amount of money with my closest friends. I know that money isn’t a representation of appreciation, but it is just a token to say thanks for always being a good friend.
4. Start a Charity breakfast for children. If I won the lottery I would definitely give back through a charitable cause. I would start the Tahnya Kristina Breakfast Club which provides one morning meal and two snacks throughout the day to kids at elementary schools. I love eating breakfast and it’s the one meal a day that I never skip. I do my best thinking (and sleeping) on a full stomach. I know that when I was in elementary school there were definitely kids who were hungry and this is just not right. All children should have access to the same education but it’s hard to concentrate and learn when all you can think about is eating some food.
Photo by DaGoaty
Kristina Tahnyak
Tahnya is a Certified Financial Planner and former Investment Advisor turned marketing and communications professional She holds a degree from Concordia University, is debt free and currently works in the field of digital marketing.
If I won I would pay off my student loans, sell my house and finally buy my dream house and work a job that I love instead.
This lottery talk is a little silly…for most people the chances of winning are worse than getting hit by lightning…its just not going to happen.