Money is more than just currency; it's a layered mix of emotions, attitudes, and habits that influence our financial decision.
In this article, we explore the concept of "money habitudes" – a combination of habits and attitudes– and how they can unconsciously affect your financial life.
What Are Money Habitudes?
Money habitudes are the ingrained thoughts and feelings about money that shape our financial behaviours. They represent the way we think and feel about money, which in turn influences our actions.
The Emotional Side of Money
Money is often an emotionally charged topic. Whether it's the excitement of ‘payday’, the guilt of an impulse purchase, or the anxiety of debt, emotions are closely tied to our financial decisions. These emotions can impact our financial wellbeing…
The Influence of Childhood
Our beliefs and attitudes about money often stem from our earliest experiences. Think back to your childhood – can you recall any significant money-related events? Perhaps it was a lesson from your parents about the value of saving or an experience that left you feeling financially vulnerable.
These early experiences shape the narratives and values we create around money. We attach meaning to money based on what we've been through, and these meanings become deeply ingrained in our psyche
The Power of Borrowed Beliefs and Emotions
Not only do we borrow beliefs about money, but we also borrow the associated emotions. Common emotions tied to money include guilt, shame, fear, responsibility, denial, and blame. When you think about it in more detail – when you remember a significant money-related memory, what emotions come up for you?
For instance, if your money story involves a fear of financial insecurity, you're likely to approach money decisions with anxiety and caution. These automatic emotions can affect your financial decisions.
Changing Your Money Mindset
To make the shift, you must begin by changing your money mindset. Start by rewriting the stories you've created around money. Challenge the negative beliefs and replace them with positive, more empowering ones.For instance, instead of saying, "I am bad with money," try saying, "I am learning to be in control of my finances." The words we use have a powerful influence on our behaviour.
The Impact of Negativity
Acting and speaking negativity to ourselves can be a significant roadblock. Our brains are wired to feel pain twice as much as pleasure. Negative speech such as "I'll never be rich" or "I can't manage money," can keep you stuck in a cycle of financial dissatisfaction.
Identifying Your Money Habitudes
We all have unique money habitudes, which influence how we manage our finances. Take a moment to reflect on these six common money habitudes:
- Giving: Money helps you feel good by giving to others.
- Carefree: Money is not a priority.
- Status: Money helps you create a positive image.
- Security: Money helps you feel safe and secure.
- Spontaneous: Money helps you enjoy the moment.
- Planning: Money helps you achieve your goals.
You might find that you strongly identify with one or a mix of these habitudes?
Understanding your money habitudes is a crucial step toward making more informed financial decisions.
Conclusion
In summary, our relationship with money goes beyond pound signs and pennies, it's deeply rooted in our values, beliefs, and emotions. By uncovering your money habitudes and challenging negative narratives, you can take control of your financial life.
Remember, there's no one-size-fits-all approach to managing money. It's about identifying your unique blend of behaviours and how they either serve or challenge you on your financial journey.
Take a moment today to reflect on your money habitudes, reframe your money mindset, and start making empowered financial decisions.
Your financial future is in your hands, and it's time to shape it positively.
