I can empathize with Linda's situation and agree with the adviser. In addition to a financial plan she needs to look at her detailed spending, looking for ways to reduce/adjust it over time.

Like so many others her financial health is tied to how much she spends as much as to how much she makes. We can all do better by a detailed review now and again, comparing our spending to what others do if possible, looking at what we need with the idea that less is more.

For example, $500 a month seems a bit much for dry cleaning. Does she still need life insurance? Will she still need/want a car when the lease is up?