Years back, I'd giggle whenever I heard phrases like "The path to financial wellness begins in your mind," and brushed it off as some fluffy new-age jargon. But then, a light bulb moment happened - I realized money is just energy, and like everything else in our lives, is directly influenced by our mindset. So, let's comically venture into the world of mindfulness, and how it can impact our financial wellness. Imagine me sitting on top of a mountain. Eccentric? Maybe, but totally worth it.
Traditionally, we think of wealth in terms of bank balances, assets, and investments. However, real wealth isn't about the balance in your bank account alone; it's a byproduct of your overall well-being. It's so much deeper than just being able to buy everything you want - or, as Desmond (my better half and in-house financial guru) likes to put it, 'It's not about amassing wealth, but rather managing, growing, and relishing it.'
Mindfulness - a word that gets thrown around so often that it's starting to lose its meaning, yet I bet many of us would struggle to define. What it actually means is being aware and present in the moment. It's about savoring your morning coffee more consciously, noticing the city lights on your way home from work, or simply appreciating the soothing rhythm of Desmond's breathing when he's asleep. (Trust me, it's therapeutic!).
Why does it matter though? Because when we are present, we are more capable of making sound decisions, managing our emotions, and navigating through life with greater ease. This applies to all areas of life, money included! You see, our relationship with money is imbued with all sorts of cognitions, emotions, and experiences. Hence, mindfulness plays a significant role in how we perceive and consequently handle our finances.
Now, let's dive into the crux of the matter. Integrating mindfulness into money management isn't about having six-figures in your bank account, but more about gaining clarity, control, and developing a healthier relationship with money. Desmond once shared an anecdote about a successful entrepreneur friend of his. This friend, even after achieving immense financial success, still felt financially insecure. His fear stemmed from his impoverished upbringing. This clearly shows that affluence doesn't necessarily equate to a healthy money mindset!
A mindful money management approach involves understanding your personal relationship with money, acknowledging emotional triggers related to spending and saving, and developing a money strategy that aligns with your values and goals. It's about making financial decisions with consciousness rather than reacting impulsively or on autopilot.
Ready to try some mindful money management? Awesome! Here are some practical steps to get you started. First, start observing your spending habits without any judgment. Remember, mindfulness is about observation, not critique. It helps you discern patterns, identify areas of unnecessary expense, and highlights where you can save more.
Next, cultivate a habit of conscious spending. Before making a purchase, ask yourself if it aligns with your financial goals and values. I still remember the time I mindfully decided to skip my 20th pair of heels because I realized I valued saving for a peaceful retirement more. Trust me, it's a liberating feeling!
Concepts of mindfulness apply not just to spending, but also saving and investing. Creating mindful saving goals aids in creating a straightforward plan, where you save without feeling you are depriving yourself. The X in saving X amount of money every month gains real-life value. Instead of the seemingly disconnected figure, you start viewing it as a pathway to that dream vacation, a house or a sound retirement, making the journey more deliberate and enjoyable.
Mindful investing, on the other hand, allows you to align your investments with your values. Investments then aren't just about growing your wealth, but render satisfaction knowing you're contributing to companies and causes you believe in.
To sum up, the journey to financial wellness is ongoing. It's about setting your own pace, acknowledging your progress, and embracing the concept of lifelong learning. It's in the small, daily steps and consistent habits, like that skipped 20th pair of heels.
So, is mindfulness a magic formula that will make you drop-dead wealthy overnight? No, I am sorry to burst that bubble. However, it does promise a more wholesome relationship with money, better decision-making abilities, and ultimately, financial wellness. It's not just about adding more zeros to your account, but stressing less about the zeros already there. As my witty spouse Desmond always says, "Take it slow, take it steady."
Written by Madeline Sterling
View all posts by: Madeline Sterling