money malaise: untangling the roots of financial discomfort
“Money isn't the problem or the solution. It is merely a side effect of what is going on inside your head.” – Robert T. Kiyosaki
Why do so many people, even those who achieve financial success, experience a persistent unease around money? It's not simply a lack of material resources, for countless individuals built their wealth from scratch. The true culprit lies deeper, in the subconscious beliefs we inherit from childhood, beliefs that whisper insidious messages about money's nature and our relationship with it.
These messages, often passed down unknowingly by parents, teachers, or societal norms, can be surprisingly toxic. Phrases like "We can't afford that," "Money is evil," or "Rich people must be dishonest" paint money as a scarce, morally questionable force. We're taught that desiring it is wrong, even "unspiritual," and that achieving financial abundance requires relentless sacrifice and hardship.
As impressionable children, we readily absorb these messages. They seep into our subconscious, shaping our beliefs and ultimately, dictating our financial reality. If we believe money is scarce, we unconsciously sabotage opportunities to acquire it. If we see it as inherently negative, we might feel guilt or shame when enjoying its fruits. And if we associate wealth with struggle, we might unknowingly push away abundance for fear of the sacrifices it supposedly demands.
The truth, however, is beautifully different. None of those limiting beliefs hold any inherent truth. Money is a neutral tool, a medium of exchange that can empower and enrich lives. The people who instilled these beliefs in us were likely acting with innocence, passing on their own ingrained limitations. The Law of Attraction, often invoked in this context, doesn't operate on mere desires; our vibrational alignment, fueled by genuine beliefs and emotions, shapes our reality.
Therefore, if you find yourself struggling financially, it's crucial to confront these negative narratives. Acknowledge their presence, understand their origin, and choose to let them go. Replace them with empowering beliefs: "Money is a positive force that allows me to experience abundance," "I am worthy of financial security and success," and "Wealth can be achieved with joy and ease."
This shift in perspective is not a magic formula for instant riches, but it's a crucial first step. By consciously aligning your beliefs with your desired reality, you break free from the shackles of inherited limitations. You open yourself to the abundant possibilities that exist, regardless of your past financial struggles.
Remember, your relationship with money is a reflection of your internal world. Choose to cultivate beliefs that empower you, and watch as your financial reality aligns with your newfound truth.
For more useful insights on personal finance and money mindset, please subscribe to my Substack publication "Money Mélange" here.
