Paula is a Registered Physical Therapist from Watrous, Saskatchewan. The only things she loves more than her clients are lobster mac and cheese and a new pair of Lululemon leggings! And check out her favourite quote; coming from a physiotherapist it is one of the best! What’s not to love about Paula?

You might catch a glimpse of yourself when you read about Paula and FOMO. Yes, that’s right, Paula suffers from FOMO, and you won’t find it in any medical textbook. FOMO – or fear of missing out, affects us all. You know the scenario: your best friend wants you to join them on a big milestone birthday trip, or really special (and expensive) meal out, but you don’t have the appropriate savings set aside. Heartstrings and bank balances are at odds! We all go through something like this in our lives and wonder whether there is a way we can afford these special occasions while still being responsible with our money. We will share our insights into how to approach these scenarios in our next blog.

What is your occupation?

I am a Physical Therapist.

Where do you live?

Mainly Saskatoon but I am doing a six-month stint in Winnipeg to watch some Blue Bomber football! And work a little as well.

Where are you from originally?

Watrous, Saskatchewan.

What do you miss most about living in Watrous?

Seeing family and good friends on a regular basis, and trips to Manitou Beach to go swimming and mini-golfing.

What will you miss most about working at Mackie Physiotherapy?

Mackie Physiotherapy has a great gym that anyone can use. You get to know a lot of people that come in and out of the clinic, and a lot of clients that you treat and even ones you don’t even treat. It creates a very strong sense of community – that’s what I will miss the most.

What is your favourite food?

For candy it’s Nibs hands down. Real food is Lobster Mac and Cheese.

What might someone be surprised to know about you?

Considering I grew up on a farm and I learned how to drive at eight years old, I’m actually a very below average driver.

What is your favourite quote?

It’s a work-related quote – Pain changes everything, but everything can change pain.

My proudest money moment:

Paying off ONE of my student loans.

What is your top money frustration?

Physiotherapists working in private practice typically don’t have pension plans. My frustration is knowing that I am the only one contributing to it and how much I need to contribute to it.

Financial security to me means . . . 

Having a good-paying job and never thinking I need to try to make ends meet by picking up a second job. Having money in savings. Being able to put away the money I need to, but also having money to enjoy the little and big things in life.

What is your favourite splurge?

Specifically, Lululemon or Nike leggings. They come out with a new or cool design and I will instantly want/buy it.

If you had a chance for one do-over in life, what would you do differently?

I would apply for student scholarships. During university I was too lazy to apply and once I was done school I found out there are a lot of scholarships that go untouched because no one applies for them!

If you could ask a financial planner any question, what would it be?

I have “fear of missing out syndrome”.  How can I afford things that come up like trips, bachelorette parties, dinners, etc., when I have not appropriately saved for them?

TCM:  Stay tuned for our next blog post where Connor gives you a few tips that might ease the FOMO struggle.