This week I’m going about things a bit differently. I usually break down the how behind a lot of financial tips, but I thought it was time to discuss the root reason behind the pursuit of wealth. No, it’s not for money’s own sake, it’s for the freedom that money can provide.
Don’t Lose Sight Of The Things That Really Matter
Money can’t give your life purpose or meaning, and money alone definitely can’t make you happy either (but it can open doors for you). Instead of fixating on saving and making money all the time, you also need to realize what all this work is for at the end of the day.
Do you want to use money to see the world? Build your dream house? retire early? Start a side hustle? There is no wrong answer – what you want to do with your money is your business (and no one else’s), but the freedom money provides is an amazing feeling.
Not having to stress about being able to pay the bills or meet a deadline for work is addicting. Being smart with your money will let you focus on your priorities – whether that is career, family, or something else entirely. For me, the more time money helps me free up is more time I can spend creating or with family. I think everyone should create or build something important to them, and for me that has always been related to writing. I put my family first, but financial freedom helps me be there more for them AND lets me pursue my own interests. Don’t forget, you can use money to leave a legacy – perhaps for your kids, or for your community.
The Core Purpose Of Money
Of course, money is used to meet your needs. Housing, food, clothing, and more are necessary, and there should never be shame in using money to meet your needs. I know some of my readers like to get exceptionally frugal at times, but don’t forget that it’s okay to spend money on yourself, especially for necessities. Plus, if you’re doing well for yourself, you always have the ability to help others meet their needs if they can’t do it on their own. Charity is a wonderful thing and giving back to your community and others is a rewarding experience!
Beyond basic needs and charity, money is all about freedom for me. The freedom to work where I want. The freedom to take a lower paid job (or not work at all) because I don’t need the money. The freedom to pursue my own interests, and as I said earlier, the freedom to be there for my family. After all, life isn’t about the daily rush and the obsession to make more cash – it’s about enjoying your life and leaving the world a better place. Without building up a hefty nest egg, both seem very hard to do.
In other words, money isn’t all about some raw number that means you’re wealthy. Money is about the freedom and options you have, particularly related to how you want to live your life – if you’re free live your life exactly how you want, in a sense you are wealthy. Now, you’ll likely need to plan out how much money you need to do what you want, but it certainly isn’t a one-size-fits-all situation. Everyone’s needs and desires are different, therefore everyone should have different goals and methods when it comes to personal finance.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, make sure you’re not obsessing over money to the point where you forget the important parts of life – and make sure you’re using the money you do have to further your own goals.
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