What’s Your Money Story?
Well, you know how your relationship, work, and health habits were formed by your past experiences? The way you view and handle your money is no different. And I would venture to say that money has a direct impact on your overall wellbeing.
Think about it:
What were your first memories of money from childhood?
Do you remember hearing that there was never enough, it didn’t grow on trees, or it was hard to come by? Or maybe you remember getting paid for odd-jobs at Grandma’s or as a gift from your busy parents and you always felt like there was plenty to go around.
I’ve been in on some money conversations with friends over the years and I’ve heard a bunch of interesting views on money. Some of these ideas have lead to people being incredibly empowered and others have caused a lifelong downward spiral of debt and feelings of unworthiness.
One of the most common elements I’ve noticed about money is that our view of it affects the choices we make.
I’ve noticed that people who see money as an abundant flow tend to make financial decisions in terms of how it can improve their life and invest in quality for the longterm. On the other hand, some who always feel like there’s never enough, can often skip quality or put their wellbeing last.
If you do the research, there is a director connection between money and depression, illness, and relationship problems.
I encourage you to consider how your money story has shaped your decisions. Journal your findings and see if they’re serving you or not.
- How do you view how others handle their money?
- How do you feel in your gut when an unexpected repair comes up?
- Do you tense up around tax-time?
There are so many angles to look at money from. It can be very enlightening to uncover some beliefs about money you didn’t even know you had. This way, you can change them if you want to.
My Money Story
I’ve had to work on my money views over the years in a big way. I grew up with the mindset that there was never enough money and even when I’ve had way more than enough, thoughts of lack have come up. What didn’t help was some limiting thoughts I picked up from some well-meaning religious leaders. I don’t blame them. They were just teaching what they had learned. I’m so glad I started questioning what I was taught.
Here’s where I’ve landed:
Money is a tool that can do wonderful, health-improving, life-affirming things. And when you recognize that, you can adapt your daily rituals to include taking care of your money. No matter how much you earn, you can decide to use money to improve your life and the lives of those around you.
Tell Me:
What was modelled for you or taught to you about money growing up? Does it still impact your money decisions in your life now? Please share in the comments. We can learn a lot from each other’s stories, release what’s not working for us, and move in a more empowering direction.
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Blessings,
Sheila
