Transforming Your Relationship with Money

Fun Fact: The word “wealth” originates from the Old English word “weal,” which meant “well-being” or “prosperity.” Over time, “weal” evolved into “wealth,” retaining its meaning of abundance or prosperity. The term has been in use for centuries to describe a state of material abundance or riches, and we’ve lost sight of its core meaning and value.

There’s no disputing that money is important. It plays a significant role in shaping our lives. It dictates where we live, what we eat, and even how we perceive ourselves and others. But what if our relationship with money was not just about our bank accounts and what we can buy? What if it goes deeper, affecting our sense of abundance, fulfillment, and connection to the world around us?

I’ve been reading “The Soul of Money: Transforming Your Relationship with Money and Life,” by Lynne Twist and considering the beliefs and attitudes we hold about money and how these beliefs shape our lives. When we’re constantly worrying about not having enough or feeling inadequate in comparison to others, we’re operating with a scarcity mindset.

• I need to save more money for retirement.
• My car isn’t as nice as my neighbors.
• I can do better work with a new tablet.
• If I get a new Apple Watch I can track my workouts better, lose 20 pounds, and get that six pack.

All of these may be true, but, if it’s these thoughts that primarily occupy our minds, we might need to reflect on our relationship with money. Is our money serving us – our needs, our goals, our ambitions – or are we serving our money?

We can break free from a cycle of accumulation and spending and embrace a mindset of sufficiency and abundance. We are good and are cared for and loved. We don’t need to catch up to an impossible ideal or a societal concept of how our lives should look.

We can align your financial practices with our values by emphasizing the importance of mindful spending and giving. If you say you enjoy spending time with your family and loved ones, how does your spending reflect that? Are you spending money on solitary pursuits or could spend money in a way that encourages interaction?

True wealth lies not in the accumulation of things but in giving back to others. Whether through charitable donations, acts of kindness, or simply sharing our time and resources, generosity can bring a sense of purpose and fulfillment that transcends our Amazon wishlists.

True wealth is about cultivating a spirit of abundance in all areas of our lives. It’s about recognizing the inherent worth and dignity of every individual and acknowledging our interconnectedness with the world around us.

We can confront our fears and insecurities, to challenge the status quo, and to embrace a new way of relating to money—one that is rooted in gratitude, compassion, and stewardship.