Tuesday, August 30, 2016

Why is Talking About Money Uncomfortable?

One of the things that I have found over the past few years is that people get very uncomfortable when you start talking about money.  Not just money, but anything that has to do with money.  People just don't like to talk about their finances and I get it.  It's uncomfortable.  It can be awkward.  And honestly, if you have money you come across as a snot and if you don't then you come across as needy.  So I get it.  Money is a topic that most people keep to themselves, much like sex.
How do we get past this though?  Because we have to.  Money needs to be discussed and for a number of reasons but here are the big 2 - or at least in my mind, these are the 2 biggest reasons money is so important
1. Money is a necessary part of life
Sad but true.  Money is a necessary part of life.  Some people will say it's a necessary evil, but I don't see it that way.  Money is how we pay our bills, rent, utilities.  It is the currency that runs the world.  If we didn't have money, there would be some other similar system in place.  While bartering for goods may have worked in the past, it's not going to get you very far in this day and age.    
2. Money allows you freedom and power
Some people may not actually agree with this statement but this is what I have found.  Money allows you to be independent.  It can provide you with a sense of security.  If you have money it can make you feel as though you are in control.  Many times when people don't have money they feel trapped, stuck in their circumstances and unable to remove themselves from situations.  Money, if well received, can allow you the freedom to go where you want to go, when you want to go.  And money can cause you to be more or less independent, which is where power comes in.  If you have little money to play with and are unable to get out of your circumstances you will feel powerless, where as if you have money you may feel more powerful as you can come and go as you need or want throughout life.
The fact is money will not buy happiness or the things that are truly valuable, although it will definitely help contribute.  Much like material possessions money can be fleeting.  Here one minute, gone the next.  If we are not talking about money and how to make the most of it while it's in our possession we are going to have nothing left to leave to our children.  And while that's not a huge deal, we do want to leave them some sort of legacy.  How to handle their day to day finances so that they can live their lives freely and without fear is a great way to provide that legacy.

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