Time and time again when I ask people what their number one source of stress is, money is the answer that I most commonly hear.
I spent many years living in a state of scarcity. Having a child at 18 only exacerbated this feeling. I hoarded money in a savings account for “emergencies” only to freak out if I ever ended up needing to spend a dime of it. I put off investing money towards my retirement because having the money close by seemed “safer.” I denied myself so much peace and joy simply because I was afraid. I have spent the past year focusing on correcting this mindset and I've found that the more I associate positive feelings with money, the more money I am able to attract into my life.
The number 1 piece of advice I can give regarding this topic is to be extremely aware and intentional about the language you use regarding it, both to yourself and out loud to others.
Do you frequently catch yourself saying things like “I can’t afford that”, “I’m broke”, “That’s too expensive for me”? Even about small things like a $4 Starbucks?
Do you frequently deny yourself things and experiences that would bring you joy and fulfillment because of this mindset? Or feel immediately guilty anytime you do spend money on yourself, taking away any possibility of actually enjoying your purchase?
I’m not saying to go out and irresponsibly spend all your money on whatever you feel like in the moment. What I am saying, is that having all the money in the world means nothing if you are using the need to have money as an excuse for not truly living your life.
Next time you want to make a purchase that is out of the ordinary, ask yourself WHY you want it and be honest (for example, is it just to impress others or is it truly for you?)
Then, shift your perspective to viewing every dollar you spend as an INVESTMENT. You are investing in yourself, your time, your joy, your health, your feeling of luxury, etc. Trust that when you invest money in these aspects of your life, it WILL yield returns.
And if now isn’t the right time to financially make the investment, shift your language from denial and scarcity: “I can’t afford this”, to one of abundance and fulfillment: “This isn’t aligned with my goals right now”, “I would rather invest my money elsewhere in order to have a greater impact on my happiness”, “I am choosing to spend this money on _______ instead” and pay attention to the difference in how that makes you feel.
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