There are plenty of sayings out there about money, like, “Money is the root of all evil” and “More money leads to more problems.” While these statements may have a hint of truth in them, these concepts are primarily believed because of how people think about and treat money. When people have no idea how money works and its advantages to one’s quality of life, they begin to misuse and abuse it, leading to extreme consequences.
So how do you eliminate the physical and emotional struggles of personal finances? You must learn how to cultivate a positive relationship with money. Below are some suggestions to consider.
Understand Money’s Purpose
We all know that money is a form of currency used to purchase goods and services; however, it goes a bit deeper than that. Money is a resource necessary for survival and affording a reasonable lifestyle. Be that as it may, money is not the end all be all. It does not equate to happiness. Money is nothing more than a tool that is used to accomplish goals that increase your happiness. When you understand this, you’re able to change your relationship with money from a place of desperation and impulse to one with control and intention.
Prioritize Long-Term Wealth Over Temporary Satisfactions
When it comes to generating income and spending, it’s not uncommon to focus on the here and now. You develop the sense that things like having too much debt and living paycheck-to-paycheck are a way of life. You jump at every opportunity to earn a penny (despite its impact on your life) and impulsively purchase things that bring you temporary satisfaction.
Fast-forward 10 or 20 years, and you have nothing to show for all your hard work or support you and your loved ones long-term. While covering everyday living expenses is essential, you mustn’t forget the importance of generating long-term wealth. A financial planner San Diego (or wherever you live) can assist you in learning about opportunities for economic growth. As you begin to plan for the future, you start building a healthier relationship with money.
Stop Using Comparisons
Many people’s relationship with money is tainted because they’re constantly comparing themselves. They compare their lives with others and the “standards” set by society. Some people want so badly to fit in that they’ll do anything to acquire a particular lifestyle – even if that means going into deep debt to create an illusion.
Happiness is not defined by how much money you have. Some individuals are considered wealthy by modern-day standards that feel stressed, anxious, and depressed. When you stop equating happiness to things and comparing yourself to others, you can develop a stronger relationship with money. You begin to value its purpose and make informed decisions to improve your personal finances long-term.
Be Happy With What You Have
Money isn’t the root of all evil. It’s the pursuit of money that can lead a person down a dark path. When you’re constantly thinking of the next move you can make to acquire more, you’re essentially saying that what you have isn’t enough. Consequently, you’re never happy, never feel complete, and never get to enjoy the blessings right in front of you.
Have you ever encountered someone unemployed or even homeless that seems to have a smile on their face all the time? That’s because, despite their current conditions, they’re appreciative of what they have. The fact that they are alive is enough to keep their spirits up. Ultimately, when they receive a blessing (housing, a job, money, etc.), they’re able to appreciate it even more. They’ll also understand the importance of taking care of their possessions and making better decisions to ensure they don’t end up where they were before.
Several factors contribute to a person’s inability to manage their finances effectively. However, at the top of the list is their attitude and relationship with money. When you have a false sense of money’s purpose, you make impulsive decisions, compare yourself to others, and fail to appreciate your blessings. The key to fixing financial mistakes and building a better future starts with changing your relationship with money. When you can master this, you will find that sticking to a budget, living below your means, saving, and investing in your future much easier.
