A Healthy Attitude Toward Money Leads to Financial Security
Your financial mindset or attitude toward money has a major impact on your long-term financial success. Many of our views about money come from subconscious beliefs instilled during childhood or past experiences with money. Your financial mindset can determine if you are more likely to be a saver or spender and if you are inclined to actively manage your finances or ignore them. Your attitude toward money has been learned over time and can be adjusted once you become aware of negative thoughts and behaviors that could be holding you back. There are two common attitudes toward money, one of optimism and abundance and one of scarcity and pessimism.
People with an attitude of scarcity have a negative view of money and see money as a source of anxiety, fear or disgust. Some common beliefs include, money should not be accumulated, you don’t deserve wealth, there is never enough and if one person gains another loses. They tend to be jealous of others and think the system is rigged against them. They are pessimistic so they spend rather than saving for the future. A negative attitude often leads to inaction and missed opportunities. If you think you won’t reach your goals, you are less motivated to take action and may avoid planning due to the fear of not having enough.
People with an attitude of abundance see money as a tool to help them reach financial success. They are more likely to be goal oriented with a long-term focus and appreciate what they have. Optimism often leads to financial success. People with a positive money attitude generally spend less than they earn, save for the future, manage their credit, give to others and plan for unexpected expenses.
If you have negative money beliefs that are preventing you from reaching your full potential, it’s possible to unlearn those beliefs. You need to believe in yourself to achieve financial success. Start with small steps, set some financial goals, take personal responsibility, focus on yourself and don’t compare yourself to others. Avoid blaming your situation on outside forces. Spend time working on your finances and approach it as an opportunity. Wealthy people devote at least 2 hours a week thinking about and managing their money. If you don’t understand finances, educate yourself. There are numerous articles, webinars and books available to help improve your financial literacy. As you become more comfortable with money your confidence will grow which will improve your financial and career success. If you are uncomfortable with money you may be sabotaging your success.
Practice gratitude for what you currently have, celebrate small successes and forgive yourself for past money mistakes. Gratitude has been found to increase happiness and reduce stress which can contribute a to positive outlook toward finances. It’s also helpful to spend time with people who will support, inspire and encourage you to look at money as a positive force.