Time to talk about something that affects all of us—our money mindset. Today, I want to share a personal story that got me thinking about how our beliefs about money can either hold us back or propel us forward. So, buckle up and join me on this journey to financial freedom!
Unraveling Limiting Beliefs
Picture this—I'm in my car, taking a break from a long day at the office. My wife and daughter walk in, worried about my daughter's finger. She got a dope looking ring from a friend, but it turned out to be smaller than she thought, and her finger swelled up, trapping the ring around her finger. I tried to remove it using the string method but failed, and I was faced with a choice—does this ring really matter? Nope. So, I grabbed some wire cutters and needle-nose pliers and freed her finger. This got me thinking about the limitations we place on ourselves when it comes to money.
From Struggle to Success
Let me share a bit of my own journey. When I was 17, I faced tremendous challenges. My brother was helping me pay for a private school education because it was the only way I could graduate from high school. I had been no stranger to hard work, hell I even painted the school during the summer time to help lower my tuition. But despite my hard work, I always felt limited. In fact, poverty can feel like a prison, not just because of the financial struggles but also the mindset it creates. Living in a community with little money around can make you believe that financial success is out of reach.
Three Pillars of Financial Well-Being
Let's dive into the essentials for financial well-being. Remember, I'm not a financial advisor, but these principles have helped me and may work for you too:
1. Pay Yourself First: As soon as you get some money, save and invest at least 20% of it. Make it a priority, no questions asked. You're investing in your future self.
2. Manage Your Liabilities: Your monthly debts and expenses should be lower than your income. I know how it feels to struggle to make ends meet, robbing Peter to pay Paul. Let's break that cycle and find financial stability and hopefully financial independence.
3. Pursue Happiness: Money alone won't bring you true joy. Take it from me—I once thought a big bonus would make me happy, but it didn't. Real happiness comes from aligning your passions with your pursuits and using money to support yourself and others.
Redefining Wealth
It took me a while to figure out what money really means to me. It's not about hoarding it for myself; it's a tool I use to provide for my family and achieve my dreams. I realized that true wealth is having a comfortable home, food on the table, decent clothes, and the ability to meet my family's needs. Money should never hold us down or make us chase an empty dream.
Finding Your Money Relationship
Now, it's your turn to reflect on your money relationship. What does money mean to you? Does it bring you joy or anxiety? Take a moment to evaluate your beliefs, values, and goals. By doing so, you can develop a positive money mindset that aligns with your aspirations.
Breaking Free and Moving Forward
We all face limitations, but it's up to us to break free and grow. By embracing a positive money mindset, we can shatter the constrictions that hold us back. Remember, it's a journey—one step at a time. Equip yourself with knowledge, surround yourself with supportive resources, and stay determined to achieve financial freedom.
Conclusion
My friends, developing a healthy money mindset is key to unlocking financial freedom. It's about rewriting the stories we tell ourselves about money and embracing a positive perspective. Together, let's break free from the constrictions that hold us back, cultivate a healthy money mindset, and embark on a journey towards a brighter and more fulfilling future. Cheers to your financial well-being!
Great take ... mindset matters a lot! Have a great day!